New Delhi | August 7, 2026
India Rejects US Lawmaker’s Comments on FCRA Amendment, Calls It an Internal Legislative Matter
India has firmly rejected comments made by a U.S. lawmaker regarding the proposed Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Amendment Bill, reiterating that legislation concerning the country’s domestic affairs is decided exclusively by the Indian Parliament.
Responding to media queries during the weekly press briefing, Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said the government had taken note of the remarks but stressed that decisions on legislative matters fall entirely within India’s sovereign democratic process.
He also pointed out that regulations governing foreign financial contributions are not unique to India and that several countries, including the United States, have comparable legal frameworks for monitoring foreign funding.
MEA Defends India’s Legislative Authority
According to the MEA, Parliament is the appropriate institution to debate and decide legislation related to foreign contributions.
The ministry said India’s approach reflects its sovereign right to regulate overseas funding within its legal framework, adding that comparable systems exist in several democratic countries to ensure transparency and accountability in foreign financial flows.
Government Reiterates Maritime Security Commitment
The MEA also addressed the security of Indian commercial shipping and seafarers operating in the Gulf region and West Asia.
The ministry said Indian missions continue to coordinate with the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, maritime authorities and local governments to ensure timely assistance whenever required.
India reaffirmed that the safety of Indian-flagged vessels and Indian seafarers remains a top priority while emphasizing the importance of uninterrupted international maritime trade and freedom of navigation.
24×7 Assistance for Indian Seafarers
The ministry said Indian diplomatic missions in the Gulf have been operating dedicated 24×7 helplines for several months to assist Indian nationals, including seafarers.
Officials added that the government continues to monitor developments closely while maintaining coordination with relevant authorities across the region.
Government Clarifies Position on Sheikh Hasina Event
Responding to questions regarding a media appearance by former Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina on August 5, the MEA clarified that the event was organized by a private media organization.
The ministry said the Government of India had no role in organizing the event and does not endorse statements made during the program concerning Bangladesh’s elected government.
Why India Mentioned the United States
Explaining its position on the FCRA amendments, the MEA said regulations governing foreign funding are common internationally and are not exclusive to India.
The ministry noted that countries such as the United States have their own legal mechanisms to regulate foreign financial influence, arguing that such frameworks are a normal part of national regulatory and governance systems.
Key Highlights
- India described the FCRA Amendment Bill as an internal legislative matter.
- MEA said Parliament alone decides domestic laws.
- Government noted that the United States and other countries also regulate foreign funding.
- India reaffirmed its commitment to protecting Indian seafarers and commercial shipping.
- The MEA clarified that Sheikh Hasina’s media appearance was organized by a private media outlet.
