Shillong, August 10: The Meghalaya Pradesh Congress Committee (MPCC) on Monday organised a peaceful protest march in Shillong against the Centre’s proposed amendments to the Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Act (FCRA), expressing concern that the changes could adversely affect missionary-run educational institutions, hospitals and social service organisations in Meghalaya.
Led by MPCC President Vincent H. Pala, Congress leaders, party workers and supporters marched from Fire Brigade to Don Bosco Square, carrying placards and raising slogans against the proposed changes and the BJP-led government at the Centre.
Addressing the gathering, Pala said the protest was intended to create public awareness about the proposed amendments and their possible implications for institutions that have served the people of Meghalaya for decades, particularly in the fields of education, healthcare and social welfare.
He said missionary and charitable institutions have played a significant role in the development of the state, including in areas where access to education and healthcare was once limited.
Pala maintained that several schools, hospitals and charitable organisations receive overseas contributions under the FCRA framework. Any changes to the law, he said, should therefore be carefully examined to ensure that genuine institutions engaged in public service are not adversely affected.
He urged citizens to study the proposed legislation and understand its provisions rather than viewing the issue solely through a political lens.
According to the MPCC president, the concern extends beyond the Congress or any particular political party and involves institutions that have made significant contributions to Meghalaya’s social, educational and healthcare development.
Pala also expressed concern over the possible implications for minority and Christian-run institutions, saying organisations engaged in genuine educational, healthcare and charitable activities should be protected and allowed to continue their work without unnecessary difficulties.
He stressed that foreign contributions received by organisations are already subject to regulations and accountability requirements under the FCRA. The government, he said, should distinguish between misuse of funds and legitimate financial assistance received for education, healthcare and humanitarian activities.
The Congress leader further said his party would continue to raise the issue through democratic and constitutional means to safeguard the interests of the people and institutions of Meghalaya.
Through Monday’s protest, the Meghalaya Congress sought to convey to the Centre that any changes to the FCRA should take into account their potential impact on missionary, educational, healthcare and charitable institutions serving communities across the state.
