Home Ministry Cancels FCRA Registration of Centre for Policy Research Led by Yamini Aiyar

Sachin

10 months ago

New Delhi, India, January 17, 2024: In a move likely to spark further controversy, the Union Home Ministry has canceled the Foreign Contribution Regulation Act (FCRA) registration of the Centre for Policy Research (CPR), a leading think tank in India.

CPR, headed by Yamini Aiyar, daughter of Congress leader Mani Shankar Aiyar, had its registration suspended for 180 days in February 2023 for alleged violations of FCRA regulations. This suspension was later extended for another six months. The Home Ministry has now cited “violation” as the reason for the complete cancellation of the registration.

Specific details of the alleged violations have not been made public by the Home Ministry. However, media reports suggest that the violations may relate to publishing reports on “current affairs programs,” which is prohibited under FCRA regulations. CPR has denied wrongdoing and maintains that it has always functioned within the legal framework.

Yamini Aiyar, president of CPR, has expressed disappointment and concern over the cancellation of the FCRA registration. She stated that the institution will explore legal options to challenge the decision.

BIG NEWS⚡ Home Ministry cancels FCRA registration of Centre for Policy Research.
The Centre for Policy Research is a think tank led by Congress leader Mani Shankar Aiyar’s daughter, Yamini Aiyar. According to officials, the cancellation of registration came after it was known… pic.twitter.com/Ic2SoCYIRo — Times Algebra (@TimesAlgebraIND) January 17, 2024

This development has drawn mixed reactions, with some supporting the government’s action and others expressing concerns about the rising scrutiny of NGOs and think tanks in India. Critics argue that canceling CPR’s FCRA registration is politically motivated and aimed at silencing dissent.

Key Points:

Home Ministry cancels FCRA registration of Centre for Policy Research.
CPR is headed by Yamini Aiyar, daughter of Congress leader Mani Shankar Aiyar.
Alleged violations of FCRA regulations were cited as the reason for cancellation.
CPR denies wrongdoing and plans to challenge the decision.
Development sparks debate about government scrutiny of NGOs and think tanks.

The impact of this cancellation on CPR’s operations and the broader NGO sector in India remains to be seen. The legal challenge from CPR is expected to be closely watched and may set a precedent for future cases.

This article will be updated with further developments as they unfold.