SHILLONG, AUG 7: NPP Shillong MP candidate Dr DRL Nonglait on Thursday proposed setting up an FCRA branch or cell in Meghalaya to help religious and social organizations with registration and renewals.
Speaking at a campaign in Rymbai, East Jaintia Hills, he said there is “confusion over the FCRA issue” and that many churches and religious bodies are worried about foreign funding for their missions.
“I have discussed this matter with the Chief Minister and the 2 Deputy Chief Ministers,” Dr Nonglait said, adding that the CM had clarified the Centre “has no intention to stop the aid that comes from outside, but to regulate.”
To reduce difficulties, he suggested a local mechanism.
“To ease things for different religious organizations that need help from foreign countries, a Branch or a Cell should somehow be set up in Meghalaya so that anyone who needs to renew FCRA Registration can do so easily and without difficulty,” he said.
Dr Nonglait noted that hospitals, schools and other institutions run by religious groups often rely on foreign support and face hurdles in complying with FCRA norms from outside the state.
By Our Reporter
