The iconic Banke Bihari temple in Vrindavan has been granted a license under the Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Act (FCRA) by the Union Home Ministry, enabling it to legally receive foreign donations, according to sources cited by PTI.
Previously managed as a private property by a family of priests, the temple is now overseen by a management committee constituted by a court. The committee applied for the FCRA license citing the temple’s frequent receipt of foreign currency donations and its intent to accept contributions from abroad.
Sources reported that the Ministry approved the license after following the due process, including court approval. This move ensures compliance with the regulations stipulated by the FCRA, 2010.
Updated FCRA Rules for Foreign Funding
Amendments to the Foreign Contribution Regulation (FCRA) Rules in 2022 introduced key changes, including:
- Reducing the administrative expense cap from 50% to 20% for organizations receiving foreign funds.
- Mandatory registration for organizations seeking foreign contributions, valid for five years with a renewal option.
- Submission of Aadhaar, passport, or OCI card details by office bearers during registration.
- Requirement to receive foreign donations through a designated bank account at an SBI branch in New Delhi.
FCRA Non-Compliance
The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) recently filed charges against Oxfam India for alleged FCRA violations. The CBI claims Oxfam India attempted to devise a structure to continue operations using foreign funds after its FCRA renewal application was denied.
The approval for the Banke Bihari temple’s FCRA license highlights the importance of adhering to the stringent regulations governing foreign contributions in India, ensuring transparency and accountability in the management of such funds.
