‘Religious activities’ cannot be used as a cover for religious conversions: Union Government cracks down on foreign funding

Rules under the Foreign Contribution Regulation Act amended

New Delhi – The Union Government has introduced major amendments to the rules under the Foreign Contribution Regulation Act (FCRA). Under the new provisions, religious conversion will no longer be regarded as a part of faith-based activities. This move will have a direct impact on non-governmental organisations, religious institutions and charitable bodies that allegedly use foreign donations to facilitate religious conversions.

🚨🇮🇳 Big Blow to Conversion Networks Using Foreign Funds!

The MHA has amended FCRA rules, making it clear that religious conversion is NOT a faith-based activity.

✅ Worship, prayer meetings, religious education, and spiritual programs remain permitted.

❌ Conversion… pic.twitter.com/yd7cNpeqDL

— Sanatan Prabhat (@SanatanPrabhat) June 23, 2026

1. A notification issued by the Ministry of Home Affairs clarifies that, under the revised rules, religious instruction, worship, prayer meetings, spiritual programmes, imparting knowledge of religious literature and community-based religious services will continue to be treated as faith-based activities.

2. However, exerting pressure on any person to change religion, influencing someone to convert, or conducting campaigns aimed at conversion will no longer be considered part of ‘religious services’.

3. If any organisation is found using foreign donations for activities related to proselytisation or religious conversion, action may be initiated against it under the Act.

4. In such cases, authorities may investigate the utilisation of foreign funds and take action relating to licences or other legal measures.