Parliament corridors saw speculation on Wednesday about whether the government would advance the FCRA bill this week or postpone it due to the pending delimitation bill. The Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Amendment Bill 2026 requires only a simple majority, yet the related constitutional amendment creates a difficult position for the ruling party. The BJP is seeking support from non-NDA parties for the delimitation bill under the 131st Constitutional Amendment Bill. However, parties including the DMK and NCP-SP oppose the FCRA bill, while the YSRCP remains cautious. Regional parties from the south expressed concerns that the FCRA changes could affect institutions serving their main voter groups, particularly Christian and minority communities. They indicated willingness to negotiate amendments but stated abstention is not an option. NCP-SP and DMK sources called for the bill to go to a joint parliamentary committee, arguing it unfairly suspects donors and could harm educational and welfare groups. The DMK warned of potential targeting of minority institutions and retrospective property actions. Parties noted the awkward optics of opposing the FCRA bill while backing delimitation. Congress and CPI(M) leaders also plan to oppose the measure over impacts on NGOs and religious bodies in states like Kerala, citing excessive bureaucratic powers.
