The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has filed a charge sheet against Oxfam India and its office bearers, including former CEO Amitabh Behar, for alleged violations of the Foreign Contribution Regulation Act (FCRA). The case focuses on alleged misuse of foreign funds and plans to bypass restrictions imposed after the NGO’s FCRA renewal application was rejected.
Key Allegations Against Oxfam India
- Creation of Alternate Structures:
The CBI alleges that Oxfam India attempted to create a structure to continue its operations with foreign funds despite its FCRA renewal application being denied in December 2021. - Pressurizing the Government:
According to the charge sheet, Oxfam India sought to pressure the Indian government through international bodies such as the European Union, US State Department, World Bank, IMF, and other institutions to renew its FCRA licence. - Excess Administrative Expenditure:
The CBI claims that Oxfam India utilized 33% of foreign funds for administrative purposes, exceeding the permissible limit of 20% under FCRA norms. - Misuse of Funds and Unlawful Transfers:
- Oxfam India allegedly routed funds from its foreign affiliates, including Oxfam Australia and Oxfam Great Britain, to certain NGOs.
- Emails retrieved by the Income Tax Department reportedly show ₹12.71 lakh paid to the Centre for Policy Research (CPR) in FY 2019-20 as commissions, which the CBI asserts deviates from Oxfam India’s stated objectives.
- The NGO also received ₹1.50 crore in its foreign contribution utilisation account instead of the designated FCRA account.
Background of the Case
- The Union Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) initiated a CBI probe in April 2023, following allegations of FCRA violations.
- The CBI registered a case the same month and conducted raids on Oxfam India’s premises.
- Oxfam India’s FCRA licence was cancelled on December 31, 2021, for non-compliance.
Oxfam India’s Response
Oxfam India has maintained its stance of cooperating with government agencies. In a statement, the NGO said:
“Oxfam India is fully compliant with Indian laws and has filed all statutory returns, including FCRA returns, in a timely manner since its inception.”
It also reiterated its commitment to transparency and social work, which focuses on empowering marginalized communities such as tribal groups, Dalits, women, and minorities.
Current Status
While former CEO Amitabh Behar was summoned by the CBI in December 2024, there is no confirmation of his appearance. Investigations continue, with the charge sheet naming Oxfam India and its top officials for multiple violations.
Implications of the Case
The case has reignited debates on the FCRA’s strict regulations and their impact on NGOs in India. Critics argue that such stringent measures hinder non-profits from addressing social issues, while proponents claim these steps are necessary to ensure transparency and prevent misuse of foreign funds.
