On Good Friday, Union Minister Kiren Rijiju, campaigning for the BJP in Kerala, addressed the Christian community, assuring them that there were no concerns regarding the proposed amendments to the FCRA.
During an evening meeting with representatives from various churches and Christian organizations, Rijiju acknowledged their concerns about the cancellation of FCRA licenses.
Rijiju stated that genuine efforts towards the welfare of the people would not be penalized.
He also emphasized that those attempting to compromise national security would face consequences.
Rijiju stated that the government would target illegal activities and anti-Indian groups while protecting genuine individuals contributing to the country's development.
He affirmed that the government would listen to its citizens.
Rijiju urged the Congress and Communists not to spread rumors about the FCRA amendments.
Father Eugene Pereira, a representative of the Latin Archdiocese, confirmed that Rijiju had promised to establish a special authority to investigate the concerns raised by the church and Christian organizations.
Pereira also stated that Rijiju had promised to hold further discussions regarding the amendment bill.
Pereira explained that their concerns were presented to Rijiju, who understood the crucial role their organizations played in development. He added that the minister was positive and would make a representation to the prime minister, sharing their concerns.
Besides Pereira, representatives from the Syro Malabar Church, the Believers Eastern Church, the Malankara Orthodox Syrian Church, and the Latin Catholic Archdiocese also attended the discussion.
Earlier, Rijiju had assured minority communities, particularly Christian missionaries, that the Narendra Modi-led government would protect their interests and provide support.
Rijiju accused the Communists and Congress in Kerala of spreading rumors and misleading NGOs, especially those working for the welfare of the people, regarding the proposed amendments to the Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Act.
These remarks came in the face of opposition to the proposed FCRA amendments from various Christian churches and priests in poll-bound Kerala.
Rijiju stated that the BJP government was seeking to "improve" the provisions of the Act to check the "illegal flow of funds for unlawful and anti-national activities."
He assured that no innocent person or legitimate organization would be targeted wrongfully.
He emphasized that foreign funds coming to India should be used for good purposes and the welfare of the people. If those funds are used for radical purposes to mislead the youth against India's interests, they must be checked.
He also assured that all minorities in India are well taken care of by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, following the spirit of 'sabka saath, sabka vikas' (with all, for the development of all).
He claimed that the Congress, which used to make Muslims their vote bank and mislead the Christian community, is no longer in power.
He added that everyone should be treated equally, and there is nothing to worry about regarding the FCRA provisions.
Rijiju contended that Kerala is now witnessing massive support for the NDA parties, and therefore, the Congress and Communists are "nervous and spreading lies."
Rijiju questioned what the Congress and Communists have done for Kerala after ruling it for a long time.
He added that, without going into detail, I would like to assure you that whatever concerns minority communities, particularly Christian missionaries, may have, there is nothing to worry about.
He added that his government will protect their interests and offer support wherever possible.
He claimed that before he became Minority Affairs minister, micro-minorities "faced unfair treatment, and Muslims were misled."
He added that, in a democracy, there should be free and fair polls, and nobody should be misled.
Though the Bill was listed for consideration in Wednesday's Lok Sabha agenda, it was not taken up for discussion. Later, Rijiju said the decision was based on "legislative priorities and not politics".