Good morning. In a plot twist worthy of a legal drama, India’s Supreme Court swatted away a union’s bid to revoke a Christian NGO’s foreign funding license, quipping, “If they’re helping grannies and disaster victims, why’s it your pickle?” The judges, unimpressed by claims of religious conversion schemes, told critics to let regulators handle FCRA audits—not random petitioners. Cue debates on foreign-aid oversight: same script, new courtroom scene.

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Supreme Court Dismisses Challenge to NGO's Foreign Funding Approval

India's Supreme Court rejected a petition by the Kerala-based trade union CENTAL, which sought to cancel the FCRA registration of Asha Social Welfare Society, a Christian NGO. The court questioned the union's objections, stating, "If the NGO is engaged in social service activities, why does it matter to you?"

Key Details of the Case

• FCRA registration: The Foreign Contribution Regulation Act (FCRA) permits NGOs to receive foreign donations for social, educational, or religious work.
• Union's claims: CENTAL alleged the NGO misused funds for religious conversion and violated FCRA rules by operating schools with foreign aid.
• Court's response: Justices dismissed the petition as "frivolous," noting the NGO’s work included elderly care, vocational training, and disaster relief. They emphasized FCRA compliance should be monitored by authorities, not third parties.

Broader Context

The ruling aligns with past Supreme Court decisions discouraging unnecessary interference in NGO operations unless clear legal breaches exist. It also underscores ongoing debates about foreign funding oversight and allegations of misuse for religious or political purposes in India.

Outcome

The court affirmed the NGO’s registration, directing CENTAL to raise complaints through official channels if evidence of violations arises. No costs were imposed on either party.

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