As FCRA restricts NGOs, Supreme Court had agreed that right to associate is not carte blanche for foreign funds
New FCRA amendment rules in India have introduced stricter regulations for NGOs receiving foreign donations. The Supreme Court has consistently upheld the government's authority to regulate these funds, citing national interest and the need to prevent misuse.
Why it matters
These regulations significantly impact the operational capacity and funding landscape for civil society organizations in India.
The Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Amendment Rules, 2026, notified by the Union Home Ministry on June 22, have introduced tougher limits on NGOs to receive foreign donations . These amendments, and the ones before them, source their legality from the Centre’s argument in the Supreme Court that the freedom to form associations or engage in the “business” of charity does not include a right to receive unbridled foreign funds or to use the money outside “permissible activities”.
The article summarizes legal developments and government arguments while referencing court rulings.
Get smarter about the news
Sign up free for a feed built around what you actually care about, Dive Deeper research on any story, and the full text of every article.
Create free accountAlready have an account? Sign in