Targeting NGOs is bad optics

The government owes an explanation on why not only the Missionaries of Charity (MoC), founded by Mother Teresa, but also thousands of NGOs and charitable trusts are awaiting a decision on the renewal of permission to receive foreign funds. The cause is obviously not just bureaucratic delays but a deliberate policy to play the obstructionist. The issue is muddled by suspicions of funds being employed for purposes other than what is stated, but reputed charities like MoC and many others cannot all be guilty of “activities detrimental to the national interest” or a threat to society and security of the Indian state.

It is a pattern of action aligned with an attitude inimical to the minorities that is a cause of worry. What kind of message is India conveying to the world when lynching incidents are taking place in the name of religion in Punjab, a call for murder is given out in hate speeches at a platform in Haridwar, Christian places of worship are vandalised by lumpen elements at Christmas time and Muslim prayers are disrupted in Haryana?

The image of a secular nation that used to respect all religions is taking big hits abroad as civil watchdog organisations wind up operations in India and critics are being targeted every which way even as a general disquiet prevails as the dubious actions of bigots get exacerbated by silence on the part of the government and the ruling party.

The issues facing the NGOs with regard to foreign funding may be sorted out as their work is vital since the government cannot be expected to do everything in the social sector. But, in dragging its feet and making them feel unwelcome, the messaging becomes crude. A mature democracy does not behave in this way even if it is forced to take action against the doubtful few who might be happier with a carte blanche. Directions may have to come from the highest in the land to stop further erosion of confidence in the Indian State internationally.