The Mizo National Front (MNF), Mizoram’s principal opposition party, has urged the state’s MPs to vote against the proposed Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Amendment Bill when it comes up for consideration in Parliament’s Monsoon Session, saying the changes would severely curtail foreign funding for churches, schools, orphanages and NGOs across the Christian-majority state. The Bill, introduced in the Lok Sabha during the Budget Session and now listed for consideration and passage, has sparked widespread alarm over its potential impact on welfare and charitable institutions.
Addressing reporters, MNF vice-president and Leader of the Opposition Lalchhandama Ralte described the amendments as a serious threat to organisations that rely on foreign contributions to run social and educational services. “The MNF is firmly opposed to the FCRA Amendment Bill,” he said, adding that he expected the state’s MPs in both the Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha to actively oppose the Bill rather than abstain.
Ralte alleged the legislation would centralise regulation of foreign contributions and introduce stricter rules on organisational assets, making it significantly harder for local bodies and faith-based institutions to receive funds. He said the measures would have “a far-reaching impact on institutions serving the people,” reflecting deep community concerns.
Politically, Mizoram has one MP in each house of Parliament; both currently belong to the ruling Zoram People’s Movement (ZPM). Ralte said party president and former chief minister Zoramthanga, who is in New Delhi, will raise the matter with senior central leaders. He also pointed to recent steps by Nagaland and Meghalaya, where state leaders and church representatives have taken the issue to Union ministers, and urged Mizoram to follow suit.
The state government is preparing a memorandum for the Centre seeking amendments. Chief Minister Lalduhoma met leaders of the Mizoram Kohhran Hruaitute Committee (MKHC) and the Council of Churches in Mizoram (CCM) earlier this week; the groups unanimously found the Bill, in its present form, unacceptable and in need of substantial changes.
Original Source: https://www.indiatodayne.in/mizoram/story/mnf-opposes-fcra-amendment-bill-urges-mizoram-mps-to-vote-against-it-in-parliament-1430703-2026-07-28?utm_source=rssfeed
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Publish Date: 2026-07-28 16:32:00
