Chennai, Apr 3:
The Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK), led by actor-politician C. Joseph Vijay, on Thursday called upon the BJP-led NDA government at the Centre to withdraw the proposed Foreign Contribution Regulation (Amendment) Bill, 2026, alleging that it could adversely affect minority-run welfare institutions.
In a statement, party general secretary N. Anand said the proposed amendment appears to be aimed at curbing the functioning of people-centric educational and medical institutions managed by minority communities. He urged the Union government to immediately reconsider and withdraw the legislation.
Anand also pointed to the prevailing economic challenges, citing supply disruptions in petroleum products due to tensions in the Gulf region, which he said have led to a rise in the prices of essential commodities. “People are already under significant financial strain. Restaurants, in particular, are facing a severe crisis owing to shortages of LPG cylinders,” he noted, questioning the timing of the proposed Bill.
“At a time when there are no visible concrete measures to address these pressing issues, the rationale behind introducing a law that could further restrict institutions serving lakhs of people remains unclear,” he said.
Referring to recent developments in Parliament, Anand observed that Opposition parties had come together in the Lok Sabha to protest against the Bill, leading to disruptions in proceedings.
“Despite unified opposition, the Centre’s continued push for the legislation has raised serious concerns among the public,” he added.
He further emphasised that minority-run educational and healthcare institutions play a crucial role in serving large sections of society, and reiterated TVK’s demand that the Centre withdraw the proposed amendment in the larger public interest.