Thiruvananthapuram: BJP state president Rajeev Chandrasekhar has clarified that the Foreign Contribution Regulation Act (FCRA) is not revoked merely for accepting foreign donations, but only when such funds are misused. Responding to the Congress party’s campaign that the proposed FCRA Amendment Bill would adversely affect the Christian community, Chandrasekhar said such claims are misleading and politically motivated.
He pointed out that organisations across all religious communities in India, including Hindu, Christian, and Muslim institutions, legally receive foreign contributions under the FCRA framework. The proposed amendment, he said, is aimed at tightening regulations to prevent money laundering conducted under the cover of foreign funding. “The objective is not to target any community, but to ensure transparency and accountability in the use of foreign funds,” he stated.
Chandrasekhar further emphasised that concerns regarding the tracing of foreign funds are central to the amendment. According to him, in several cases, the source of money entering the country remains untraceable. If such funds are not utilised in accordance with FCRA provisions, the registration can be cancelled. In such instances, assets created through these funds may fall under the purview of the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA). He assured that the apprehensions of Christian churches would be addressed and clarified through proper communication.
Link between money laundering and terrorism
Highlighting the broader implications, Chandrasekhar noted that money laundering is often linked to terrorism, not only in India but also in regions such as the United States, Europe, and Southeast Asia. He argued that strict enforcement mechanisms are necessary to prevent illegal financial flows that could potentially support unlawful activities. He questioned why misinformation is being spread when religious institutions, including churches, temples, and mosques, are using foreign funds legally. Referring to provisions under the PMLA, he added that investigative agencies are empowered to freeze transactions suspected of money laundering.
Turning his criticism towards the Congress, Chandrasekhar alleged that the party is resorting to fear-based propaganda due to electoral insecurity. He accused Congress of avoiding discussions on development and the nation’s future. Referring to recent political developments, he pointed out that CPI(M) leader V. Sivankutty had expressed willingness to accept support from SDPI, while Congress has engaged with Jamaat-e-Islami. “What is the difference between them?” he asked, accusing both parties of compromising principles for electoral gains.
