India’s new church federation weighs joint response to proposed funding-law changes

The National Federation of Churches in India (NFCI) is considering a coordinated response to the proposed FCRA Amendment Bill 2026. During its first meeting on Sept. 18 at St. John’s National Academy of Health Sciences in Bengaluru, approximately 45 archbishops, bishops, church heads, and delegates from various denominations discussed the potential impact of the law.

Archbishop Joseph D’Souza, an NFCI convenor and president of the Good Shepherd Church in India and the All India Christian Council, suggested that churches submit a memorandum detailing their objections to the bill. He also urged the federation to request a meeting with the Joint Parliamentary Committee currently reviewing the measure.

Cardinal Anthony Poola, archbishop of Hyderabad and president of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of India and NFCI chairman, stated that churches face a critical situation with serious challenges and grave difficulties. He noted that these circumstances require a united front among Christian denominations. The NFCI was launched on May 8 during a fellowship meeting.