Bribery Scandal Rocks Home Ministry: 3 Officers Removed from FCRA Division

The Indian Home Ministry has transferred three of the five officers in its Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Act (FCRA) division, days after Delhi Police arrested two government officials for allegedly seeking bribes to process FCRA registrations. The transfers, confirmed by ministry sources on [date], mark a significant shake-up in the unit responsible for regulating foreign contributions to non-governmental organisations.

The arrests, made earlier this week, stem from a complaint that the officials demanded illegal payments to expedite FCRA registration and renewal applications. The FCRA division has faced longstanding criticism for opaque procedures and delays, with many NGOs complaining of harassment. A Home Ministry spokesperson declined to comment on the transfers, citing an ongoing investigation. Delhi Police have not released the names of the arrested officials.

The transfers are likely to intensify scrutiny of the FCRA regime, which has been used to cancel thousands of NGO licenses in recent years. Anti-corruption activists have welcomed the action but called for a deeper probe into systemic issues. The government is expected to announce additional measures to streamline FCRA processes and restore public confidence. International donors and civil society groups are closely monitoring the situation, as any further disruption could impact foreign-funded development projects across India.