SHILLONG: Amidst ongoing political debates surrounding the Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Act (FCRA), BJP MLA Mayraldborn Syiem has strongly rejected allegations that the legislation is anti-Christian, asserting that the mandatory annual renewal of FCRA certificates is purely a matter of financial transparency, compliance, and accountability.
Challenging critics who label the law as discriminatory, Syiem questioned the basis of such claims, urging detractors to point out specific clauses that target Christians.
He clarified that renewing an FCRA certificate is a mandatory administrative requirement rather than an assault on any religious community, applying universally across all religions, including Hindu, Muslim, Christian, and Sikh organizations receiving foreign contributions.
Addressing procedural concerns, Syiem emphasized the need for prospective implementation and proposed making the renewal process more accessible for local organizations.
He suggested that instead of requiring physical visits to New Delhi every year, the procedure could be simplified through online portals or by establishing a regional facilitation cell in Guwahati to ease the burden on people from the state.
He reiterated that his party remains committed to protecting and fighting for the interests of the Christian community while ensuring adherence to national laws.
The BJP legislator stressed that the core objective of the FCRA provisions is to establish strict accountability through regular auditing, drawing parallels to standard financial practices like the Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) audits.
He argued that tracking how and where foreign funds are utilized is essential for national compliance and good governance, urging citizens to look past sentimental arguments and focus on pressing developmental issues such as unemployment and regional progress.
(4FrontMedia news)
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