Team Goemkarponn
MARGAO: The Council for Social Justice and Peace (CSJP) and the Catholic Association of Goa (CAG) have placed two key issues before Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge during his Goa visit — the implications of the proposed FCRA amendments for minority institutions and the need for greater accountability in the selection of Congress candidates for the 2027 Assembly elections.
In a memorandum submitted by CSJP Secretary Fr. Savio Fernandes and CAG President Cyril A. Fernandes, the organisations welcomed the Congress’ opposition to the Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Amendment Bill, 2026 and its referral to a Joint Parliamentary Committee.
The organisations raised particular concern over provisions relating to the control or disposal of assets of organisations whose FCRA registrations are cancelled or lapse. They argued that such provisions could have significant consequences for minority-run educational institutions, trusts and social welfare organisations in Goa.
The CSJP and CAG urged the Congress leadership to push for amendments that protect constitutional guarantees under Articles 25, 26, 29 and 30, or seek withdrawal of provisions they consider detrimental to these protections.
In a separate memorandum to Kharge and GPCC president Girish Chodankar, the CAG focused on the Congress’ preparations for the 2027 Goa Assembly elections.
The association called for a candidate selection process centred on integrity, credibility and grassroots acceptance, while opposing the nomination of habitual party-hoppers. It also urged the party to provide greater opportunities to young candidates, including those from Generation Z.
The CAG further called for consultations with local communities before candidates are finalised and proposed that nominees publicly commit to respecting the electoral mandate if elected.
The representations place both institutional safeguards and candidate credibility at the centre of the political debate ahead of the 2027 Goa elections.
