Support from 111 members, two opposed: Kerala assembly passes resolution against centre's FCRA amendment

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The Kerala assembly passed the resolution introduced by Chief Minister VD Satheesan in the Assembly against the amendment of the Foreign Contribution Regulation Act (FCRA) by the central government. While the LDF fully supported the special resolution, two BJP members opposed it. In the vote, 111 members supported the resolution.

The resolution was against the amendment brought by the central government imposing restrictions on the handling of funds received by non-governmental organisations (NGOs) and charitable trusts from abroad. The Chief Minister called it a planned move by the central government, which he said would adversely affect the minorities of the country. The Chief Minister demanded that the central government's amendment be repealed immediately.

VD Satheesan criticised the FCRA amendment as violating the provisions of Articles 19, 25 and 29 of the Constitution and going against the federal principles enshrined by the country. He pointed out that the amendment could lead to abuses, including the cancellation of licenses of voluntary organisations. The Chief Minister also said that it would adversely affect charitable activities in backward and tribal areas.

Meanwhile, BJP MLA V Muraleedharan said that states lack the authority to propose amendments to laws passed in Parliament and termed the resolution presented by the Chief Minister as against federal principles. However, the Chief Minister did not accept V Muraleedharan's argument. In the subsequent vote, the resolution was passed with 111 votes, after receiving the support of LDF members.