India's FCRA Amendment Bill 2026: Government Tightens Grip on Foreign-Funded NGOs

India's government is poised to re-table the highly contentious Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Amendment Bill, 2026, in Parliament on Monday, a move that could grant it unprecedented powers over the assets of foreign-funded non-governmental organizations and religious bodies. The proposed legislation, which was previously deferred due to widespread opposition, aims to significantly expand state control over how civil society organizations operate and manage funds received from abroad. At the heart of the controversy is a provision to create a 'Designated Authority' with the power to take provisional or permanent control of assets belonging to NGOs whose FCRA registration is cancelled, surrendered, or not renewed. Critics, including a broad coalition of political parties, church groups, and human rights advocates, argue this could undermine fundamental rights like freedom of association, property rights, and due process, potentially crippling thousands of organizations, including schools and hospitals, without judicial oversight. The bill follows a trend of increasing restrictions under the Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Act, with over 22,000 registrations cancelled since 2010. While the Ministry of Home Affairs maintains these amendments are crucial for transparency, accountability, and safeguarding national sovereignty against misuse of foreign funds, opponents are bracing for an intensified legislative battle. The government has indicated it might consider changes before seeking passage, but the implications for India's civil society landscape remain profound, pushing many to closely watch parliamentary proceedings next week for the fate of this critical legislation.