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Source: The post concerns related to India’s FCRA has been created, based on the article “A backsliding: Curbs on financing of civil society bodies denote eroding civil liberties” published in “The Hindu” on 22nd January 2024.
UPSC Syllabus Topic: GS paper2- polity- Government policies and interventions for development in various sectors and issues arising out of their design and implementation and the role of NGOs, SHGs, various groups and associations, donors, charities, institutional and other stakeholders
News: The registration of the Centre for Policy Research (CPR) under the Foreign Contribution Regulation Act (FCRA) has been revoked by the Union Home Ministry.
What is the FCRA?
The FCRA regulates foreign donations and ensures that such contributions do not adversely affect internal security.
It was enacted during the Emergency in 1976 amid apprehensions that foreign powers were interfering in India’s affairs by pumping money into the country through independent organizations.
For more information read here
Why was the FCRA registration of CPR cancelled?
What are the concerns related to India’s FCRA?
Restrictive Control on NGOs: India’s use of the FCRA to suspend or cancel licenses of NGOs like Centre for Policy Research and World Vision India showcases restrictive control over Civil Society Organizations (CSOs).
Silencing Sensitive Issues: The government targets NGOs working on environmental issues, civil liberties, and human rights, suggesting an attempt to silence voices on sensitive topics.
Impact on India’s Global Reputation: International bodies like the International Commission of Jurists have criticized the FCRA amendments for being against international law. Additionally, Freedom House downgraded India to an “electoral autocracy” in its Democracy Index, citing erosion of civil liberties as a reason.
Contradiction with Democratic Ideals: As India positions itself as the ‘Mother of Democracy’ and a global leader, these actions contradict its democratic aspirations and impact its standing in global freedom and democracy indices.
Question for practice:
Discuss the key concerns related to India’s Foreign Contribution Regulation Act (FCRA).
