New Delhi: The Special Cell of the Delhi Police, in coordination with central agencies, apprehended two officials of the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) over allegations that they sought illegal gratification from an association in return for facilitating its pending registration under the Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Act (FCRA).
The two officials were apprehended in New Delhi on September 28 following specific information received by the Ministry of Home Affairs. According to the ministry, one of the officials is working as a Senior Accountant in the MHA’s Foreigners Division, while the other is an Accountant currently posted in a Pay and Accounts Office. The second official had earlier served in the Foreigners Division.
The MHA said the officials had allegedly approached an association and sought illegal gratification to help facilitate its pending FCRA registration. Preliminary questioning has also indicated that the two officials were in contact with certain associations in connection with registration and renewal of FCRA permissions in exchange for illegal payments.
Authorities are continuing their investigation to establish the full details of the alleged activities and to determine whether the officials were involved in facilitating other FCRA registrations or renewals in return for money.
The Ministry of Home Affairs said it follows a zero-tolerance policy towards corruption and that appropriate legal and departmental action is being taken in the matter.
The ministry also clarified that all FCRA-related services are provided online through the official FCRA portal. It said no intermediary, agent or individual has been authorised to facilitate or speed up any FCRA-related service.
The MHA advised associations and other organisations dealing with FCRA matters to use the official online system and avoid approaching unauthorised persons offering assistance with registration or renewal.
The Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Act, 2010 regulates the receipt and use of foreign contributions and foreign hospitality in India. The law lays down rules for eligible individuals, associations and other entities receiving funds from foreign sources and governs how such contributions are used and reported.
The investigation into the allegations against the two officials is currently underway, and further details are expected as the probe progresses.
