Mizoram Chief Minister Lalduhoma has said that the state government will convey its concerns to the Centre over the proposed amendments to the Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Act (FCRA) after holding consultations with church leaders and other stakeholders. The Chief Minister emphasised that the government would carefully examine the proposed changes and submit its views after taking into account the opinions of religious organisations, which play a significant role in the social and welfare activities of the state.
Lalduhoma’s statement comes amid growing discussions over the proposed FCRA amendments, which have raised concerns among churches and civil society groups regarding their potential impact on organisations receiving foreign contributions.
Government to Consult Church Leaders
Addressing the issue, Chief Minister Lalduhoma said the state government would first engage with church leaders before taking an official stand on the proposed amendments.
He noted that churches in Mizoram have long been involved in education, healthcare, humanitarian assistance, and community development, making their views important in the consultation process.
The Chief Minister assured that the government would listen to all stakeholders before communicating its position to the Union government.
Concerns Over Proposed FCRA Amendments
The proposed amendments to the Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Act have sparked debate among various organisations that depend on foreign funding for social and charitable activities.
Church bodies in Mizoram have reportedly expressed apprehensions that certain changes could affect the functioning of institutions engaged in welfare, education, disaster relief, and community development.
Lalduhoma said these concerns would be examined carefully before any recommendations are forwarded to the Centre.
Government Seeks Balanced Approach
The Chief Minister stressed that the state government intends to adopt a balanced and consultative approach.
He said the objective is not to oppose reforms but to ensure that any legislative changes do not adversely affect genuine organisations working for the welfare of the people.
According to Lalduhoma, constructive dialogue with all stakeholders will help the government present a comprehensive and well-informed representation to the Centre.
Churches Play Key Role in Mizoram
Lalduhoma acknowledged the significant contribution of churches to Mizoram’s social fabric.
He said religious institutions have played an important role in promoting education, healthcare, social awareness, and humanitarian services across the state for decades.
Given their extensive involvement in public welfare, he said it was appropriate to consult church leaders before taking any official decision on the proposed amendments.
Representation to Be Sent After Consultations
The Chief Minister clarified that the state government’s response would be prepared only after the consultation process is completed.
Officials are expected to compile feedback from church organisations and other stakeholders before submitting Mizoram’s concerns and suggestions to the Union government.
The representation is likely to focus on ensuring that legitimate charitable and developmental activities are not adversely affected by any regulatory changes.
Focus on Welfare and Development
Lalduhoma reiterated that the government’s primary concern is safeguarding institutions that contribute to the welfare and development of the people.
He said any policy affecting such organisations should be framed after considering the practical realities faced by states like Mizoram, where faith-based institutions play an important role in delivering social services.
The Chief Minister also expressed hope that the Centre would consider the state’s views with due importance.
Mizoram to Present Its Views to the Centre
The Mizoram government has made it clear that it will adopt a consultative process before taking a formal position on the proposed FCRA amendments. By engaging with church leaders and other stakeholders, the state aims to ensure that its representation to the Centre reflects the concerns and interests of organisations involved in public welfare.
Chief Minister Lalduhoma’s assurance underscores the government’s commitment to dialogue and consensus while addressing an issue that has generated considerable discussion among religious and civil society organisations in the state.