Thiruvananthapuram, 01 July (H.S.): The Kerala Legislative Assembly passed a resolution urging the Union government to withdraw the amendments to the Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Act (FCRA), arguing that the changes adversely affect the functioning of voluntary organisations and undermine constitutional and federal principles.

The resolution, moved by Chief Minister V.D. Satheesan, received overwhelming support in the House. A total of 111 members voted in favour of the resolution, while two BJP legislators voted against it. Amendments proposed by BJP MLA V. Muraleedharan were rejected by the Assembly.

Moving the resolution, the Chief Minister contended that the amendments to the FCRA violate the spirit of Articles 19, 25 and 29 of the Constitution, which guarantee fundamental freedoms, including the rights to association, religion and protection of cultural interests. He also argued that the changes run contrary to the principles of federalism.

Satheesan alleged that the amended provisions could be widely misused to cancel the licences of non-governmental organisations and charitable institutions. He said such actions would have serious consequences for voluntary organisations engaged in welfare activities, particularly in backward and tribal regions, where they play a significant role in delivering essential services and humanitarian assistance.

The Chief Minister urged the Union government to immediately withdraw the amendments, stating that the revised provisions have created an atmosphere of uncertainty for voluntary organisations working in sectors such as education, healthcare, social welfare and rural development.

Opposing the resolution, BJP MLA V. Muraleedharan argued that state legislatures have no authority to recommend amendments to laws enacted by Parliament. He maintained that the resolution itself was inconsistent with the federal structure of the Constitution and exceeded the legislative competence of the State Assembly.

Responding to the objections, Satheesan said the amendments proposed by the BJP legislator were contrary to the very objective and spirit of the resolution and therefore could not be accepted.

Following the rejection of the BJP amendments, the resolution was put to vote and passed with an overwhelming majority.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Arun Lakshman