Shillong, August 7: The Meghalaya Pradesh Congress Committee (MPCC) will organise a peaceful protest rally on August 10, 2026, against the proposed Foreign Contribution Regulation Act (FCRA) Amendment Bill. The rally will begin at Madan Iew Rynghep (Fire Brigade) and conclude at Don Bosco Square.
Addressing a press conference at Congress Bhavan, Eugene Jariañ, President of the 16 East Shillong Block Congress Committee, along with Manuel Badwar, said the proposed amendments to the FCRA could have far-reaching implications for citizens’ rights, smaller states, and organisations engaged in social welfare activities.
Jariañ said that if the Bill is enacted, reversing it would be difficult because the BJP-led government holds a majority in Parliament. However, he stressed that in a democracy, the exercise of majority power must remain within the framework of the Constitution and the rule of law.
He argued that even when a majority supports a particular course of action, the law must ensure justice and protect the rights of every individual. Similarly, he said any legislation that could affect civil liberties or religious rights should be subjected to extensive public consultation and parliamentary debate before being passed.
Expressing concern over the proposed amendments, Jariañ alleged that the changes are “draconian” and could disproportionately affect states like Meghalaya, where missionary institutions, churches, charitable organisations, and voluntary groups contribute significantly to education, healthcare, and community development through legally received foreign assistance.
He further said that the Congress expects the National People’s Party (NPP), an ally of the BJP in Meghalaya and a constituent of the National Democratic Alliance (NDA), to clearly state its position on the proposed amendments. According to him, the party’s silence or reluctance to oppose the Bill could adversely affect the interests of the people of Meghalaya.
Speaking on the occasion, Manuel Badwar said the August 10 rally would remain peaceful and is intended to raise public awareness about the possible impact of the proposed legislation. He appealed to citizens, youth organisations, civil society groups, and the general public to participate peacefully while respecting the law.
The Congress leaders clarified that the protest is not directed against any religion but is aimed at safeguarding constitutional rights, democratic values, and the interests of the people, which they believe could be affected by the proposed amendments to the FCRA.
