In a letter to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Derek O'Brien, the Rajya Sabha leader of the Trinamool Congress (TMC), has called for an all-party meeting to discuss the government's proposed delimitation legislation and the Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Amendment bill. O'Brien's letter highlights concerns over the government's handling of important legislation, particularly regarding the Jammu and Kashmir Reorganisation bill, 2019, and the Delimitation bill introduced in the Lok Sabha on April 16 this year.
The opposition is wary of the government's 'dubious record' in handling significant legislation, and O'Brien urges the government to avoid 'cloak and dagger tactics' on delimitation. He also draws attention to the failure of the Delimitation bill to secure the required two-thirds majority and its subsequent negation. The issue of delimitation has become a major political flashpoint, with opposition parties from southern states expressing concern that a fresh exercise based on post-2026 population figures could reduce their relative representation in Parliament.
O'Brien also criticizes the proposed Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Amendment bill, 2026, arguing that it would weaken institutions working among the country's poorest and marginalised communities. He claims that the proposed amendments would adversely affect thousands of educational institutions run by the Christian community and internationally reputed charitable organisations by giving the executive excessive control over their functioning. The TMC leader stresses the importance of protecting Articles 19 and 26 of the Constitution.
Drawing a parallel with the three farm laws that were later repealed, O'Brien urges PM Modi to convene an all-party meeting before proceeding with what he describes as another instance of 'cowboy legislation'. The proposed amendments to the Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Act have drawn criticism from opposition parties and sections of civil society, who argue that they could further tighten government oversight of non-governmental organisations and charitable institutions receiving foreign funds. The government, however, maintains that the changes are aimed at ensuring greater transparency and accountability in the use of foreign contributions.
TMC MPs are considering a boycott of discussions on the allocation of time for the Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Amendment Bill, 2026, during meetings of the Business Advisory Committees (BAC) of both the Lok Sabha and the Rajya Sabha. The party will also press for the proposed legislation to be referred to a parliamentary committee for detailed scrutiny before it is taken up for consideration and passage. O'Brien's letter highlights the need for a transparent and inclusive approach to legislation, urging the government to engage in meaningful dialogue with all parties involved.
