SHILLONG, AUG 7: Meghalaya Cabinet Minister Lahkmen Rymbui on Friday asked the Centre to tweak the proposed FCRA Amendment Bill, 2026, saying its provisions could severely impact churches, schools and other institutions in the state.

The UDP leader said the Bill gives the designated authority “sweeping powers” to seize property for FCRA violations, including late renewal or expiry of registration.

“Once you register for FCRA, it is till eternity. If you don’t follow everything, there is power to seize the property. This is very dangerous,” Rymbui told reporters.

He also opposed the move to make all key functionaries personally liable.

“Now liability will not only be with office bearers. It is not only Trust liability, it is personal liability,” he said.

Rymbui argued that demanding records going back 20-60 years was impractical. 

He urged that the new rules apply only to future funding and that existing funds be exempted.

Seeking safeguards for social institutions, he said: “We want the government to insert a clause that for the Church, schools, hostels, colleges and universities, if there are minor lapses, a penalty should be levied, not seizure of property.”

He warned that a suspended FCRA license could place institutions under government control for years.

“If it is suspended for 5-10 years, that means all schools, hospitals and hostels will be under the designated authority,” Rymbui said.

The Minister said Chief Minister Conrad Sangma has already raised the issue with the Union Minister along with religious leaders.

“We support action against NGOs misusing foreign funds. But certain clauses must be modified so they do not affect the unity and diversity, especially of our state Meghalaya,” he added.