The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) on Wednesday conducted searches at the offices of Oxfam India over alleged violations of foreign funding rules. The agency has accused the charity organization of accepting foreign donations without prior government approval.
The CBI conducted raids at Oxfam India’s offices in Delhi, Mumbai, and Hyderabad, and seized documents related to foreign funding. The charity organization has been accused of accepting funds from foreign donors without seeking approval from the Ministry of Home Affairs, which is mandatory under the Foreign Contribution Regulation Act (FCRA).
The CBI’s action comes after a complaint was filed by the Ministry of Home Affairs, which alleged that Oxfam India had received around Rs 50 crore in foreign donations between 2018 and 2021 without seeking prior approval. The ministry has also accused the organization of using foreign funds for purposes other than what was declared.
Further, Oxfam India has denied any wrongdoing and stated that it has been complying with all relevant laws and regulations. The charity organization has also stated that it has always been transparent in its operations and that it will cooperate fully with the CBI’s investigation.
The CBI’s action against Oxfam India has sparked concerns among civil society organizations, who have accused the government of targeting NGOs and other civil society organizations. Many have expressed concern that the government’s actions could have a chilling effect on civil society and undermine India’s democratic values.
Moreover, the issue of foreign funding has been a contentious one in India, with the government accusing several NGOs of violating the FCRA. Many civil society organizations have criticized the government’s actions, arguing that they are aimed at stifling dissent and curbing the freedom of expression.
