Shillong, April 8: Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma has urged the Centre to hold wider consultations and consider amendments to the Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Amendment Bill 2026 before its passage.

The appeal was made following a meeting with Union Minister for Minority Affairs Kiren Rijiju in New Delhi. Speaking after the discussion, Sangma said the state government has requested the Centre to engage with stakeholders to address emerging concerns.

“We requested the minister to have a larger discussion with other stakeholders so that concerns can be addressed,” he stated.

The Chief Minister expressed particular apprehension over certain provisions of the bill, especially Section 16, which allows for the seizure of property based on a designated authority’s decision. He noted that such provisions could have implications for property rights, especially for minority-run institutions.

“We are concerned about the property rights of different institutes, especially Christian institutions,” Sangma said.

He, however, welcomed Rijiju’s positive response and assurance to take up the matter at the highest level. “We are hopeful that there will be a detailed discussion and necessary amendments will be made to ensure that the property rights of minority institutions are protected,” he added.

Sangma was accompanied by Deputy Chief Minister Prestone Tynsong during the meeting.

The state government is also coordinating with various organisations to collectively raise concerns and push for amendments to the proposed legislation.