The Ministry of Home Affairs has revoked the FCRA license of SECMOL (Students Educational and Cultural Movement of Ladakh), citing repeated breaches of the Foreign Contribution Regulation Act, 2010.

Sonam Wangchuk’s NGO has finally had its FCRA license cancelled — a step that should have been taken long ago. Even back in 2007, when BJP was not in power at the Centre or in J&K, the government had flagged several violations by him and made sharp observations. The record speaks… pic.twitter.com/SoKWiNCPNu

— Amit Malviya (@amitmalviya) September 25, 2025

The action comes after Sonam Wangchuk-led protest turned violent in Leh which left 4 people dead and 80 injured.

Simultaneously, the CBI has initiated an investigation into alleged irregularities in foreign funding linked to the institute headed by Sonam Wangchuk.

Sonam Wangchuk’s NGO has received funds from Ford Foundation which is known for indulging in covert operations.

According to officials, the Himalayan Institute of Alternatives Ladakh (HIAL), also founded by Wangchuk, has drawn attention for a steep jump in donations—from around ₹6 crore in FY 2023-24 to over ₹15 crore in the next fiscal. Out of its seven bank accounts, four were reportedly not declared, and the institute allegedly accepted foreign contributions exceeding ₹1.5 crore without mandatory FCRA approval, violating Section 11 of the Act.

SECMOL itself faces similar charges, with six of its nine accounts said to be undisclosed. Another entity, Sheshyon Innovations Private Limited, where Wangchuk serves as a director, is also under scrutiny. Investigators have flagged a ₹6.5 crore transfer from HIAL to this private firm and a sharp fall in its profit margins—from 6.13% to just 1.14% in a year.

The probe further extends to Wangchuk’s personal finances. Sources claim he maintains nine personal bank accounts, of which eight were never disclosed, and that these accounts received substantial foreign inflows. Since 2021, over ₹2.3 crore was allegedly remitted abroad to unidentified recipients, raising concerns of possible money laundering.

Critics within the BJP highlight the contradiction between Wangchuk’s public attacks on corporates and the reality that his ventures have received sizeable CSR funding, including from central PSUs. If these allegations stand, they could damage his credibility and shift the Ladakh agitation from a people’s movement to a case of personal and political opportunism.

Wangchuk established SECMOL in 1988 and launched “Operation New Hope” in 1995. Many of his initiatives have historically drawn support from international organisations such as the Ford Foundation, Tata Trust, Dan Church Aid, and Karuna Trust.

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The post Modi Govt Cancels Foreign Funding License Of Sonam Wangchuk’s NGO SECMOL Which Received Funds From Notorious Ford Foundation appeared first on The Commune.

A detailed complaint has been filed by NGO watchdog Legal Rights Protection Forum with the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) against the Rural Development Trust (RDT) and its affiliated organisations, namely Rayalaseema Development Trust (RyDT), Women Development Trust (WDT) and Accion Fraterna Trust (AFT), all based in Anantapur district, Andhra Pradesh.

The complaint alleges that these organisations, whose FCRA licences were not renewed, have deliberately provoked large-scale public agitations against the Government of India, thereby escalating a statutory regulatory matter into a serious issue of governance, public order, and national security.

The complaint accuses RDT of orchestrating mass mobilisations that created tense standoffs with law enforcement, particularly at the Anantapur Collectorate, where thousands of people were brought together in coordinated demonstrations. It is alleged that the trust exploited the humanitarian dependence of its beneficiaries, weaponising welfare delivery into a political pressure tool against the State. According to the complaint, what should have been a straightforward case of FCRA compliance has been turned into an organised campaign to undermine statutory processes and coerce the government.

The complaint further claims that RDT engaged in extensive political lobbying, drawing support from MPs, MLAs and local leaders who petitioned central authorities to intervene. Such politicisation of regulatory action, it argues, undermines the rule of law and sets a dangerous precedent where foreign-funded NGOs can hold the State hostage.

Financial irregularities form a major part of the allegations. Official audits and inquiries are said to have confirmed diversion of over ₹26 crore in patient funds to non-FCRA domestic accounts. The organisations allegedly transferred foreign contributions to entities without valid FCRA licences, in violation of Sections 7 and 8 of the FCRA, 2010. The complaint describes RDT’s evolution from a charitable body into a “parallel political force” in Rayalaseema, with its influence over local politics and ability to mobilise vast crowds operating as a shadow governance structure.

Conflict of interest is also cited, pointing to the role of Mr. Moncho Ferrer, a senior RDT executive who simultaneously serves as director of Vicente Ferrer Foundation USA, the primary foreign donor to RDT. This dual role, according to the complaint, violates safeguards against self-dealing. It is further alleged that the four affiliated trusts share office bearers, addresses and donor networks, creating a circular and non-transparent funding mechanism.

The complaint highlights instances where overlapping addresses, identical field offices and project descriptions were used to present the trusts as separate entities, thereby inflating accounts. Women Development Trust, for instance, is accused of raising large foreign funds for hospital expenditure despite not owning or operating hospitals. Reports published by the trusts allegedly reused the same hospital photographs with altered signage, suggesting asset misappropriation. Between 2011 and 2015, Women Development Trust is reported to have received over ₹36 crore in foreign contributions without disclosing donor identities or the purposes of funding, in contravention of Sections 18 and 19 of the FCRA.

The complaint also accuses the trusts of launching a politicised campaign to frame the MHA’s decision as political vendetta, mobilising communist factions and caste-based groups to distort public opinion. It warns of unlawful sharing of sensitive data of minors and beneficiaries — including health, financial and attendance records — with foreign donors, thereby raising concerns about privacy and external influence.

On the international stage, the complaint points to a 2011 TEDx talk where an RDT executive allegedly misrepresented India’s development by portraying the organisation as the sole saviour of marginalised groups, while omitting constitutional safeguards and welfare schemes, thereby undermining democratic institutions and discrediting the State.

The complaint argue that the cumulative effect of these activities represents foreign-driven subversion of India’s internal governance processes. By eroding regulatory authority, creating parallel power structures, and mobilising foreign funds to influence domestic politics, the trusts are said to pose a direct challenge to India’s sovereignty and security.

The complaint urges the MHA to cancel the FCRA registrations of all four trusts, conduct a comprehensive forensic audit and criminal investigation into their finances and office bearers, and ensure that humanitarian dependence is not exploited to subvert legal processes. It concludes that RDT and its affiliates are no longer functioning as charitable organisations but as a coordinated network engaged in financial fraud, regulatory violations and subversive political activity, and therefore decisive action is necessary to protect democratic institutions, uphold the rule of law, and safeguard national security.

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The post Complaint Filed Against Rural Development Trust And Affiliates Over FCRA Violations, Mass Agitations, and Security Risks appeared first on The Commune.

In a significant move, the Ministry of Home Affairs has reportedly been permanently cancelled the FCRA registration of the Christian NGO Jesus Redeems, based in Tuticorin, Tamil Nadu, following a series of complaints lodged by the Legal Rights Protection Forum (LRPF). The FCRA licence of Jesus Redeems was suspended in March 2024 and it came after the Ministry was alerted to multiple serious allegations regarding the organization’s operations.

Following our multiple complaints, the Ministry of Home Affairs has permanently cancelled the FCRA license of Jesus Redeems, led by the controversial anti-Hindu Pastor, Mr. Mohan C. Lazarus.

Note: Previously, the license had been suspended. https://t.co/FsY51h1MgR

— Legal Rights Protection Forum (@lawinforce) January 3, 2025

The complaints, filed by LRPF, raised concerns over potential violations of the Foreign Contribution Regulation Act (FCRA), specifically accusing Jesus Redeems of unlawfully accepting foreign donations without adhering to the legal framework. The group also pointed to concerns about possible foreign influence and the legality of the activities led by the NGO’s chief functionary, the controversial evangelist Mr. Mohan C. Lazarus.

In light of these allegations, LRPF urged the Ministry to take swift action by suspending the FCRA registration and launching an in-depth investigation into the NGO’s operations. After an extensive review, the Ministry decided to suspend the registration of Jesus Redeems (FC: 076160018) in March 2024, effectively halting its ability to receive foreign contributions.

Despite the suspension, further complaints continued to surface, prompting the Ministry to take more stringent action. In January 2025, the Government of India permanently revoked the FCRA license of Jesus Redeems, ending its ability to operate under the FCRA provisions, with particular attention drawn to the leadership of Mr. Mohan C. Lazarus, who has been a rabid anti-Hindu supporting the Dravidianist regime in Tamil views.

Background

Mohan C Lazarus run a Christian organization named Jesus Redeems through which he does religious proselytization activities. He is known for his notoriety in disturbing communal harmony by making anti-Hindu statements.

Multiple FIRs were registered against him at different police stations of Tamil Nadu state under Sections 153, 153-A(1)(a) & (b), 295-A, 505(1)(b) and 505(2) of the Indian Penal Code for making statements against Hindu Temples and Hindu Gods during a mass religious gathering. Details of the cases are provided in the below table:

It is noteworthy that in another case, the Regional Passport officer refused to issue a new passport to Mr Mohan Lazarus alias Mohan C. Lazarus because he intentionally suppressed information that he had 4 criminal cases pending against him while submitting the passport application.

In February 2021, the Madras High Court came down heavy and issued a warning to the rabid evangelist pastor for making reckless statements against Hindus and Hindu religion.

However, Lazarus got relief from the High Court through case number W.P.(MD)No.15829 of 2020, asserting his ‘Right to Travel’ as a fundamental right guaranteed under Article 21 of the Indian Constitution. 

The LRPF has pointed out that Mohan C Lazarus and his organization Jesus Redeems attract provisions of the FCRA, 2010 which amounts to suspension/cancellation of the FCRA registration as he has a history of disturbing communal harmony by making provocative speeches and indulging in proselytization activities.

FCRA Violations

‘Jesus Redeems’ is a registered Christian religious organisation operating under the Indian Trusts Act, 1882, and holds FCRA registration number 076160018. The founder and signatory authority, Mohan Lazarus alias Mohan C. Lazarus, is also the Chief Executive Officer of a US registered Public Charity organization named ‘Jesus Redeems Ministries Inc.’

One of the key allegations revolves around the recent amendments to the FCRA rules, which explicitly state that the Chief Functionary of the recipient Indian organization should not be a part of the donor organization. ‘Jesus Redeems’ allegedly received significant foreign contributions from ‘Jesus Redeems Ministries Inc., (US),’ a major foreign donor.

Foreign Funds From Christian NGO Compassion International

It has been discovered that foreign donations from Compassion International (USA) to Caruna Bal Vikas, an NGO based in Chennai, were funneled to ‘Jesus Redeems.’ Records indicate that Jesus Redeems received ₹1,67,68,189, more than 1.5 Crore, from Caruna Bal Vikas between 2009 and 2015 under the guise of ‘Welfare of Children.’ From 2014 onward, Compassion International started donating directly to the FCRA-designated bank account of Jesus Redeems, totaling ₹1,13,04,681. This clearly indicates that Jesus Redeems is the primary affiliate of Compassion International (US) and Caruna Bal Vikas. The chronological receipt of foreign contributions from Caruna Bal Vikas and Compassion International (US) is detailed in the attached Annexure-7.

In 2017, the Indian government prohibited Compassion International (US) from donating to Indian NGOs due to various controversies involving child conversion and fundraising through child sponsorship schemes globally and in India. Following a complaint by the Director, FCRA Wing, Ministry of Home Affairs, New Delhi, the Economic Offenses Wing of the Central Bureau of Investigation, Delhi Zone, registered an FIR (RC2202020E003 dated 20-02-2020) against Chennai-based organizations Caruna Bal Vikas and M/s Adhane Management Consultants Pvt Ltd. The complaint highlighted Caruna Bal Vikas’s stated objective of ‘converting poor children into fulfilled Christian adults,’ engaging in religious activities, including conversions to Christianity, which have the potential to disrupt communal harmony, and therefore, violate FCRA, 2010. The complaint also asserted that Compassion International India funded Caruna Bal Vikas and M/s Adhane Management Consultants Pvt Ltd for conversion activities.

The Chinese Link

The complaint further notes a foreign contribution of ₹6,21,274 from BRO Devakumar VG Edwin, identified as the Managing Director of DANGOTE Group, Nigeria, in 2016. DANGOTE Group, a mining conglomerate in Nigeria, has close ties with Sinoma International Engineering Co. Ltd, a Chinese state-owned company, raising concerns about potential foreign influence.

This connection with China raises concerns more so because of the recent instances of arrest of Prabir Purkayastha, Founder of the NewsClick website, and Amit Chakravorty, its Head of Human Resources, on charges of conspiracy to disrupt India’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.

The arrests were prompted by an investigative report in The New York Times, which alleged that NewsClick had received funding from a network involved in disseminating Chinese propaganda. The arrests highlight concerns about foreign contributions and their potential impact on national security, aligning with the broader context of efforts to curb external influence in India.

Publication Activities

Jesus Redeems is also accused of publishing monthly magazines in various languages without providing the necessary details and declarations required by the FCRA Act. The FCRA Act, 2010 mandates that NGOs engaged in publishing activities must provide details and declarations under the Press Registration of Books Act, 1867. Additionally, they need a certificate from the Registrar of Newspapers of India confirming that their publication doesn’t fall under the category of newspapers. The complaint filed requests the verification of compliance of Mr. Mohan C. Lazarus regarding these requirements, particularly in relation to the official magazine of ‘Jesus Redeems,’ by the Ministry of Home Affairs.

Furthermore, the magazine suggests that ‘Jesus Redeems’ operates in multiple countries, including the United States, Australia, Dubai, Malaysia, New Zealand, Singapore, Canada, and Sri Lanka. The organisation is reportedly hosting Christian religious events abroad, inviting pastors from various countries, including China. With all the information put together, it looks like Mr. Mohan Lazarus is the editor-in-chief, owner, and publisher of these magazines. 

The complaint by LRPF also noted from the copy of the FCRA return filed by Jesus Redeems that it had received an amount of ₹3,71,154 from an individual named Mr. Shirly Rohan whose residential address in Bangalore. It requests for the basis of receiving donations into the FCRA account from Indian residents.

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The post MHA Permanently Cancels FCRA License Of Mohan Lazarus’ NGO Jesus Redeems Over Multiple Violations appeared first on The Commune.

In a first, the Union Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has publicly detailed the grounds for denying Foreign Contribution Regulation Act (FCRA) clearances to non-governmental organizations (NGOs). The reasons, outlined in a note issued on 8 November 2024, include activities seen as anti-development, alleged involvement in religious conversions, attempts to incite protests with malicious intent, and potential affiliations with radical groups. The decision comes after several NGOs requested clarification on the specific reasons for their applications being declined.

The ministry’s note serves as a “consolidated” list of reasons behind FCRA denials, though it refrains from identifying specific NGOs or citing individual cases. “The ministry has received representation from some of the associations stating that reasons for denial of their application are not clear,” the MHA explained in the note. “The matter has been examined and it is decided to disseminate the consolidated reasons of denial of renewal/registration applications for benefit of applicant associations.”

The clarification follows the cancellation of FCRA licences for prominent organizations, such as the Centre for Policy Research (CPR), accused earlier this year of violating FCRA provisions. The MHA has also revoked FCRA licences of five NGOs: Church of North India-Synodical Board of Social Service (CNI-SBSS), Voluntary Health Association of India (VHAI), Indo-Global Social Service Society (IGSSS), Church Auxiliary for Social Action (CASA), and Evangelical Fellowship of India (EFI).

According to the MHA, additional reasons for denying FCRA clearance include:

• Concealing information on application forms
• Pending legal prosecutions against any office bearer(s) of the NGO
• Findings from field inquiries that indicate a lack of reasonable activities by the NGO over a two- to three-year period
• Refusal to provide necessary clarifications
• Incomplete information on the addresses of office bearers or members

For NGOs seeking FCRA renewals, the MHA will also consider how foreign funds were allocated and whether they aligned with the organization’s stated objectives over the past five years. Renewal may be refused if financial documents show discrepancies if annual returns are not uploaded as required, or if funds have been misused.

The MHA’s data indicates that currently, 16,023 NGOs possess valid FCRA licences, while 20,711 organizations have had their licences canceled.

The government has progressively increased scrutiny of foreign-funded NGOs since 2020. This includes canceling the licences of the Rajiv Gandhi Foundation (RGF) and Rajiv Gandhi Charitable Trust (RGCT) in 2022, accusing them of FCRA violations. Between 2019 and 2022, the MHA’s FCRA unit conducted inspections or audits of at least 335 NGOs and associations to ensure compliance with foreign funding regulations.

Following amendments to FCRA in September 2020, restrictions were further tightened. The revised law prohibits public servants from receiving foreign contributions, mandates Aadhaar identification for all NGO office-bearers, and limits the use of foreign funds for administrative costs to 20% (down from the previous 50% cap). The government’s stance reflects an intensified approach toward ensuring transparency and compliance in the operation of foreign-funded NGOs in India.

(With inputs from Hindustan Times)

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The post No FCRA Licenses For NGOs Involved In Conversion, Inciting Protests, And Linked To Radical Groups, Modi Govt Makes It Clear appeared first on The Commune.

In a major development, the Ministry of Home Affairs has suspended the FCRA license of controversial Christian missionary outfit Jesus Redeems, run by Mohan C Lazarus.

The action by the Indian government comes following a complaint by Legal Rights Protection Forum, a legal activist group, allegeing serious violations of the Foreign Contribution Regulation Act (FCRA) provisions.

#BIG_BREAKING:
Following our multiple complaints, the Government of India has suspended the FCRA registration of Jesus Redeems (FC: 076160018) headed by notorious & rabid evangelist Mr. Mohan C. Lazarus https://t.co/AEnKkFRpTD

— Legal Rights Protection Forum (@lawinforce) March 16, 2024

Background

Mohan C Lazarus run a Christian organization named Jesus Redeems through which he does religious proselytization activities. He is known for his notoriety in disturbing communal harmony by making anti-Hindu statements.

Multiple FIRs were registered against him at different police stations of Tamil Nadu state under Sections 153, 153-A(1)(a) & (b), 295-A, 505(1)(b) and 505(2) of the Indian Penal Code for making statements against Hindu Temples and Hindu Gods during a mass religious gathering.

It is noteworthy that in another case, the Regional Passport officer refused to issue a new passport to Mr Mohan Lazarus alias Mohan C. Lazarus because he intentionally suppressed information that he had 4 criminal cases pending against him while submitting the passport application.

In February 2021, the Madras High Court came down heavy and issued a warning to the rabid evangelist pastor for making reckless statements against Hindus and Hindu religion.

However, Lazarus got relief from the High Court through case number W.P.(MD)No.15829 of 2020, asserting his ‘Right to Travel’ as a fundamental right guaranteed under Article 21 of the Indian Constitution. 

The LRPF has pointed out that Mohan C Lazarus and his organization Jesus Redeems attract provisions of the FCRA, 2010 which amounts to suspension/cancellation of the FCRA registration as he has a history of disturbing communal harmony by making provocative speeches and indulging in proselytization activities.

FCRA Violations

‘Jesus Redeems’ is a registered Christian religious organisation operating under the Indian Trusts Act, 1882, and holds FCRA registration number 076160018. The founder and signatory authority, Mohan Lazarus alias Mohan C. Lazarus, is also the Chief Executive Officer of a US registered Public Charity organization named ‘Jesus Redeems Ministries Inc.’

One of the key allegations revolves around the recent amendments to the FCRA rules, which explicitly state that the Chief Functionary of the recipient Indian organization should not be a part of the donor organization. ‘Jesus Redeems’ allegedly received significant foreign contributions from ‘Jesus Redeems Ministries Inc., (US),’ a major foreign donor.

Foreign Funds From Christian NGO Compassion International

It has been discovered that foreign donations from Compassion International (USA) to Caruna Bal Vikas, an NGO based in Chennai, were funneled to ‘Jesus Redeems.’ Records indicate that Jesus Redeems received ₹1,67,68,189, more than 1.5 Crore, from Caruna Bal Vikas between 2009 and 2015 under the guise of ‘Welfare of Children.’ From 2014 onward, Compassion International started donating directly to the FCRA-designated bank account of Jesus Redeems, totaling ₹1,13,04,681. This clearly indicates that Jesus Redeems is the primary affiliate of Compassion International (US) and Caruna Bal Vikas. The chronological receipt of foreign contributions from Caruna Bal Vikas and Compassion International (US) is detailed in the attached Annexure-7.

In 2017, the Indian government prohibited Compassion International (US) from donating to Indian NGOs due to various controversies involving child conversion and fundraising through child sponsorship schemes globally and in India. Following a complaint by the Director, FCRA Wing, Ministry of Home Affairs, New Delhi, the Economic Offenses Wing of the Central Bureau of Investigation, Delhi Zone, registered an FIR (RC2202020E003 dated 20-02-2020) against Chennai-based organizations Caruna Bal Vikas and M/s Adhane Management Consultants Pvt Ltd. The complaint highlighted Caruna Bal Vikas’s stated objective of ‘converting poor children into fulfilled Christian adults,’ engaging in religious activities, including conversions to Christianity, which have the potential to disrupt communal harmony, and therefore, violate FCRA, 2010. The complaint also asserted that Compassion International India funded Caruna Bal Vikas and M/s Adhane Management Consultants Pvt Ltd for conversion activities.

The Chinese Link

The complaint further noted a foreign contribution of ₹6,21,274 from BRO Devakumar VG Edwin, identified as the Managing Director of DANGOTE Group, Nigeria, in 2016. DANGOTE Group, a mining conglomerate in Nigeria, has close ties with Sinoma International Engineering Co. Ltd, a Chinese state-owned company, raising concerns about potential foreign influence.

This connection with China raises concerns more so because of the recent instances of arrest of Prabir Purkayastha, Founder of the NewsClick website, and Amit Chakravorty, its Head of Human Resources, on charges of conspiracy to disrupt India’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.

The arrests were prompted by an investigative report in The New York Times, which alleged that NewsClick had received funding from a network involved in disseminating Chinese propaganda. The arrests highlight concerns about foreign contributions and their potential impact on national security, aligning with the broader context of efforts to curb external influence in India.

Publication Activities

Jesus Redeems is also accused of publishing monthly magazines in various languages without providing the necessary details and declarations required by the FCRA Act. The FCRA Act, 2010 mandates that NGOs engaged in publishing activities must provide details and declarations under the Press Registration of Books Act, 1867. Additionally, they need a certificate from the Registrar of Newspapers of India confirming that their publication doesn’t fall under the category of newspapers. The complaint filed requested the verification of compliance of Mr. Mohan C. Lazarus regarding these requirements, particularly in relation to the official magazine of ‘Jesus Redeems,’ by the Ministry of Home Affairs.

Furthermore, the magazine suggests that ‘Jesus Redeems’ operates in multiple countries, including the United States, Australia, Dubai, Malaysia, New Zealand, Singapore, Canada, and Sri Lanka. The organisation is reportedly hosting Christian religious events abroad, inviting pastors from various countries, including China. With all the information put together, it looks like Mr. Mohan Lazarus is the editor-in-chief, owner, and publisher of these magazines. 

The complaint also noted from the copy of the FCRA return filed by Jesus Redeems that it had received an amount of ₹3,71,154 from an individual named Mr. Shirly Rohan whose residential address in Bangalore. It requests for the basis of receiving donations into the FCRA account from Indian residents.

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The post Govt Of India Suspends FCRA License Of Jesus Redeems Run By Mohan C Lazarus appeared first on The Commune.

The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has revoked the Foreign Contribution Regulation Act (FCRA) license of the prominent think-tank Centre for Policy Research (CPR), approximately a year after suspending it. The cancellation is based on allegations of violating provisions of the foreign funding law.

CPR’s FCRA license had initially been suspended in February 2023 for 180 days, and subsequently, the suspension was extended for an additional 180 days. Established in 1973, CPR is a nonprofit, policy think-tank that specializes in advanced and comprehensive research on a diverse range of policies related to climate change, Social Justice, Public finance & accountability, Urbanisation, and others with a specific emphasis on addressing India’s challenges in the 21st century.

In September 2022, the Income Tax Department conducted an operation against CPR as part of an investigation into their foreign funding activities. In response to CPR’s legal challenge in the Delhi High Court against the license suspension, the MHA contended that the think-tank’s foreign funding should cease due to its alleged receipt of foreign contributions for “undesirable purposes” that could negatively impact the economic interests of the country. The MHA further claimed that CPR had transferred foreign contributions to other entities and placed them in non-designated accounts, thereby violating FCRA regulations.

‘The FCRA license has been revoked as per the directive received on 10 January 2024’ conveyed by Yamini Aiyar, President of CPR, to ANI.

Ministry of Home Affairs has cancelled the FCRA registration of Centre for Policy Research (CPR), a leading public policy research institution in New Delhi. The FCRA has been cancelled via order received on January 10: Yamini Aiyar, President, CPR tells ANI

— ANI (@ANI) January 17, 2024

What is the Foreign Contribution Regulation Act?

The FCRA, enacted during the Emergency in 1976, aimed to address concerns about foreign interference in India by regulating foreign donations to individuals and associations. The law was amended in 2010 to consolidate regulations on the use of foreign funds and to prevent their utilization for activities detrimental to the national interest. The 2020 amendment granted the government increased control over the receipt and utilization of foreign funds by NGOs.

According to FCRA criteria, individuals or NGOs seeking foreign donations must be registered under the Act, open a designated bank account in the State Bank of India, New Delhi, and utilize the funds only for the specified purposes outlined in the Act. Registrations are granted to entities with specific cultural, economic, educational, religious, and social programs.

Exceptions include the requirement that the applicant must not be fictitious, have a criminal record related to conversion activities or communal disharmony, or engage in the propagation of sedition. The Act also prohibits certain entities, such as election candidates, journalists, judges, government servants, political parties, and their office-bearers, from receiving foreign funds.

FCRA registration is valid for five years, and NGOs must apply for renewal within six months of the expiry date. The government has the authority to cancel the registration if violations are identified, if the NGO has been inactive for two consecutive years, or if it has become defunct. Once canceled, re-registration is not allowed for three years.

(Inputs With Hindustan Times)

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The post ‘Think-Tank’ Centre For Policy Research Loses FCRA License Over Alleged Foreign Funding Violations appeared first on The Commune.

In a letter addressed to Union Home Minister Amit Shah, concerns have been raised regarding the alleged receipt of foreign funds by the Tuticorin Diocesan Association and Tuticorin Multipurpose Social Service Society, despite the suspension and cancellation of their FCRA licenses and freezing of their bank accounts by the Government of India.

The letter, also copied to the Home Secretary, cites several documents, including a parliamentary reply by Union Minister Kiren Rijiju in 2015, and details obtained from the NGO Darpan website. These documents, enclosed with the letter, highlight the suspension of FCRA registration and freezing of bank accounts due to purported anti-national activities.

According to the enclosed documents, the Tuticorin Diocesan Association and Tuticorin Multipurpose Social Service Society continued to receive foreign funds despite the suspension of their FCRA licenses. The funds reportedly came from various sources, including the Apostolic Nunciature India, a diplomatic entity of the Vatican government.

The letter reveals detailed amounts of foreign contributions received by the Tuticorin Diocesan Association, indicating a significant portion from Apostolic Nunciature India. Moreover, it alleges that a substantial amount was transferred to the individual accounts of the NGOs’ office bearers, raising concerns about fund mismanagement.

Furthermore, the Tuticorin Diocesan Association is accused of transferring foreign funds from its frozen bank accounts to another account with Syndicate Bank, as well as transferring funds to construction companies. The reasons behind these transfers, particularly the significant sum of ₹1.25 Crores transferred to construction companies, are emphasized as requiring investigation.

The letter urges an immediate investigation by the Enforcement Directorate into the activities of the Tuticorin Diocesan Association and Tuticorin Multipurpose Social Service Society. It requests scrutiny of all bank accounts associated with NGOs whose FCRA registrations were suspended or canceled, as stated by Union Minister Kiren Rijiju in 2015.

The allegations, if proven true, raise serious questions about the misuse of foreign funds and potential violations of the law by these NGOs. The call for an investigation underscores the need for transparency and accountability in the utilization of foreign contributions by non-governmental organizations.

Earlier, Legal Rights Protection Forum (LRPF) had sought ED probe into Tuticorin Diocesan Association after its investigation revealed that the NGO had received foreign funds despite its bank account being frozen.

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The post YSRCP MP Seeks ED Probe Into Tuticorin Diocesan Association And Its Ally NGO Over Getting Foreign Funds Despite FCRA Suspension And Bank Acc Freezing appeared first on The Commune.

In a recent development, the Ministry of Home Affairs has been approached with a formal complaint against the Christian NGO ‘Jesus Redeems’ based in Tuticorin, Tamil Nadu.

The complaint, filed by the Legal Rights Protection Forum, a legal activist group, alleges serious violations of the Foreign Contribution Regulation Act (FCRA) provisions.

The Commune accessed a copy of the complaint and here are the details.

Background

Mohan C Lazarus run a Christian organization named Jesus Redeems through which he does religious proselytization activities. He is known for his notoriety in disturbing communal harmony by making anti-Hindu statements.

Multiple FIRs were registered against him at different police stations of Tamil Nadu state under Sections 153, 153-A(1)(a) & (b), 295-A, 505(1)(b) and 505(2) of the Indian Penal Code for making statements against Hindu Temples and Hindu Gods during a mass religious gathering. Details of the cases are provided in the below table:

It is noteworthy that in another case, the Regional Passport officer refused to issue a new passport to Mr Mohan Lazarus alias Mohan C. Lazarus because he intentionally suppressed information that he had 4 criminal cases pending against him while submitting the passport application.

In February 2021, the Madras High Court came down heavy and issued a warning to the rabid evangelist pastor for making reckless statements against Hindus and Hindu religion.

However, Lazarus got relief from the High Court through case number W.P.(MD)No.15829 of 2020, asserting his ‘Right to Travel’ as a fundamental right guaranteed under Article 21 of the Indian Constitution. 

The LRPF has pointed out that Mohan C Lazarus and his organization Jesus Redeems attract provisions of the FCRA, 2010 which amounts to suspension/cancellation of the FCRA registration as he has a history of disturbing communal harmony by making provocative speeches and indulging in proselytization activities.

FCRA Violations

‘Jesus Redeems’ is a registered Christian religious organisation operating under the Indian Trusts Act, 1882, and holds FCRA registration number 076160018. The founder and signatory authority, Mohan Lazarus alias Mohan C. Lazarus, is also the Chief Executive Officer of a US registered Public Charity organization named ‘Jesus Redeems Ministries Inc.’

One of the key allegations revolves around the recent amendments to the FCRA rules, which explicitly state that the Chief Functionary of the recipient Indian organization should not be a part of the donor organization. ‘Jesus Redeems’ allegedly received significant foreign contributions from ‘Jesus Redeems Ministries Inc., (US),’ a major foreign donor.

Foreign Funds From Christian NGO Compassion International

It has been discovered that foreign donations from Compassion International (USA) to Caruna Bal Vikas, an NGO based in Chennai, were funneled to ‘Jesus Redeems.’ Records indicate that Jesus Redeems received ₹1,67,68,189, more than 1.5 Crore, from Caruna Bal Vikas between 2009 and 2015 under the guise of ‘Welfare of Children.’ From 2014 onward, Compassion International started donating directly to the FCRA-designated bank account of Jesus Redeems, totaling ₹1,13,04,681. This clearly indicates that Jesus Redeems is the primary affiliate of Compassion International (US) and Caruna Bal Vikas. The chronological receipt of foreign contributions from Caruna Bal Vikas and Compassion International (US) is detailed in the attached Annexure-7.

In 2017, the Indian government prohibited Compassion International (US) from donating to Indian NGOs due to various controversies involving child conversion and fundraising through child sponsorship schemes globally and in India. Following a complaint by the Director, FCRA Wing, Ministry of Home Affairs, New Delhi, the Economic Offenses Wing of the Central Bureau of Investigation, Delhi Zone, registered an FIR (RC2202020E003 dated 20-02-2020) against Chennai-based organizations Caruna Bal Vikas and M/s Adhane Management Consultants Pvt Ltd. The complaint highlighted Caruna Bal Vikas’s stated objective of ‘converting poor children into fulfilled Christian adults,’ engaging in religious activities, including conversions to Christianity, which have the potential to disrupt communal harmony, and therefore, violate FCRA, 2010. The complaint also asserted that Compassion International India funded Caruna Bal Vikas and M/s Adhane Management Consultants Pvt Ltd for conversion activities.

The Chinese Link

The complaint further notes a foreign contribution of ₹6,21,274 from BRO Devakumar VG Edwin, identified as the Managing Director of DANGOTE Group, Nigeria, in 2016. DANGOTE Group, a mining conglomerate in Nigeria, has close ties with Sinoma International Engineering Co. Ltd, a Chinese state-owned company, raising concerns about potential foreign influence.

This connection with China raises concerns more so because of the recent instances of arrest of Prabir Purkayastha, Founder of the NewsClick website, and Amit Chakravorty, its Head of Human Resources, on charges of conspiracy to disrupt India’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.

The arrests were prompted by an investigative report in The New York Times, which alleged that NewsClick had received funding from a network involved in disseminating Chinese propaganda. The arrests highlight concerns about foreign contributions and their potential impact on national security, aligning with the broader context of efforts to curb external influence in India.

Publication Activities

Jesus Redeems is also accused of publishing monthly magazines in various languages without providing the necessary details and declarations required by the FCRA Act. The FCRA Act, 2010 mandates that NGOs engaged in publishing activities must provide details and declarations under the Press Registration of Books Act, 1867. Additionally, they need a certificate from the Registrar of Newspapers of India confirming that their publication doesn’t fall under the category of newspapers. The complaint filed requests the verification of compliance of Mr. Mohan C. Lazarus regarding these requirements, particularly in relation to the official magazine of ‘Jesus Redeems,’ by the Ministry of Home Affairs.

Furthermore, the magazine suggests that ‘Jesus Redeems’ operates in multiple countries, including the United States, Australia, Dubai, Malaysia, New Zealand, Singapore, Canada, and Sri Lanka. The organisation is reportedly hosting Christian religious events abroad, inviting pastors from various countries, including China. With all the information put together, it looks like Mr. Mohan Lazarus is the editor-in-chief, owner, and publisher of these magazines. 

The complaint also notes from the copy of the FCRA return filed by Jesus Redeems that it had received an amount of ₹3,71,154 from an individual named Mr. Shirly Rohan whose residential address in Bangalore. It requests for the basis of receiving donations into the FCRA account from Indian residents.

LRPF Calls For Cancelling FCRA Registration Of Jesus Redeems

Given the gravity of the allegations, the Legal Rights Protection Forum urges the Ministry of Home Affairs to immediately suspend the FCRA registration of ‘Jesus Redeems’ and conduct a thorough investigation into its activities. The complaint highlights potential violations of FCRA provisions, potential foreign influence, and legal issues surrounding the chief functionary.

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On Wednesday, the Central government informed Parliament that it had received some complaints about ‘The Other Media’, a non-governmental organization that organized protests and demonstrations that led to the closure of the Vedanta-owned Sterlite copper plant in Tamil Nadu’s Thoothukudi in 2018.

Back in 2020, The Commune had reported on the nature and funding of The Other Media. The key persons who were instrumental in instigating the Sterlite Protest have been reported in this article.

The Other Media (TOM) is an FCRA-NGO with the registration number DL 231660085. Nityanand Jayaraman, a self-proclaimed environmental activist is the Chairperson or Chief Functionary of TOM.

TOM has received funding from questionable entities like World Association For Christian Communication, Canada, Christian Conference of Asia, Catholic Organization for Relief and Development Aid (CORDAID) of Netherlands and Trócaire, the official overseas development agency of Catholic Church in Ireland.

TOM has also received funds from Bread for the World (BfW), a “globally active development and relief agency of the Protestant Churches in Germany”.

While TOM’s account statements (Form FC-6) mention the nature of association to be “educational, social”, all their donations have been marked under “Activities other than those mentioned”.

Now, the NGO could lose its Foreign Contribution Regulation Act (FCRA) license if any violations are discovered, the Home Ministry claimed after asking for clarifications from the organization.

Nityanand Rai, the Union Minister of State (MoS) for home affairs, responded in writing to a question posed by Congress MP Naranbhai J. Rathwa in the Rajya Sabha, stating that “some representations/complaints alleging violation of the provision(s) of the Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Act, 2010 (FCRA, 2010) by the association “The Other Media, New Delhi” have been received by the Ministry. Additionally, field agency inputs have also been received.”

In May 2018, Vedanta’s Sterlite copper smelting plant in Thoothukudi was shut down as a result of widespread protests in which 13 people were killed by police shooting on the 100th day of a demonstration. The protesters called for the permanent closure of the Vedanta Copper Plant on the grounds that it seriously polluted the environment.

Congress MP Naranbhai J Rathwa inquired whether the ministry had received complaints about ‘The Other Media’ misusing funds to organize protests and demonstrations around Vedanta’s Sterlite Copper Plant in Thoothukudi, Tamil Nadu, the details of funds received by it, and whether any action would be taken against the organization.

In his response, the MoS stated that when FCRA violations are reported, a standard questionnaire is issued to the association seeking detailed information, and the same is examined in terms of the provisions of the FCRA, 2010 and rules made thereunder.

The MoS further said, “In case violations of provisions of the FCRA, 2010 are found, the certificate of FCRA registration of the association may be canceled under section 14 of the Act.”

According to the minister, the organization received a foreign contribution of ₹3.54 crores from 2019-20 to 2021-22, of which ₹2.79 crores was used.

(With inputs from Hindustan Times)

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A recent social media post advertising a “motivational meeting” to be held by a US citizen within the university campus of a  Telangana MLA, has come under scrutiny as the meeting is proselytizing in nature.

The “motivational meeting” was scheduled for 30 January 2023 between 5.00 – 8.00 pm on the campus grounds of Malla Reddy University, in Maisammaguda, Hyderabad. The founder chairman of this university is Chamakura Malla Reddy of Telangana’s ruling BRS party and the current Minister of Labour and Employment of Telangana state. He is the MLA from Medchal assembly constituency.

The missionary speaker for the upcoming meeting is Nicholas James Vujicic, an Australian-American Christian evangelist and motivational speaker of Serbian descent, born with tetra-amelia syndrome, a rare disorder characterised by the absence of arms and legs. Although Nicholas “Nick” Vujicic was born in Australia to Serbian parents, he moved to the U.S in 2002, eventually married an American woman and currently lives quite comfortably in California. Nick Vujicic lives in the Southern California region of the U.S with his wife and four children, an area that includes the Los Angeles, Hollywood and San Diego counties or districts.

Nick’s website (nickvujicic.com) openly invites people and organizations to “book” his time for speaking engagements, which of course, bring him ample money and support his lifestyle. While many of his “meetings” appear to be motivational on the surface of it, there is often a different agenda, beneath the exterior surface of a “motivational” speech. Nick Vujicic is a strong “born again” christian with a missionary/evangelist goal. He has openly stated his deep religious beliefs in Christianity. Nick is also the author of a few books, which reiterate his strong christian beliefs.

At the time of publishing this report, the Petbasheerabad Police on receiving a formal written complaint from members of the Hindu outfit Shiva Shakthi reached the venue.

Meanwhile, NGO watchdog Legal Right Protection Forum (LRPF) has lodged a complaint with the regional FRRO (Foreigner Regional Registration Offices) in Hyderabad, as the Nicholas James Vujicicis has allegedly violated Indian visa norms by indulging in religious preaching.

We came to know that, on receiving a formal written complaint from @ShivaShakthiOrg activists, the Petbasheerabad Police @PtbadPS have reached the venue. Further details yet to be known. https://t.co/YNQ3QjAIpk

— Legal Rights Protection Forum (@lawinforce) January 30, 2023

A tourist visa can only be used for non-business purposes, such as tourism or visiting family and friends. Even if one holds a missionary visa, the person cannot use it for proselytizing activities and can only join a missionary organization approved by the Government of India for which the organization must receive a certificate indicating it is compliant with the Foreign Contributions Regulatory Act.

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