FCRA licence of International Cooperative Alliance cancelled

Union home ministry has cancelled the FCRA (Foreign Contribution Registration Act) licence of International Cooperatives Alliance (ICA) for its alleged violation of rules, ET has learnt.

ICA is the apex body representing cooperatives worldwide and provides knowledge, expertise and coordinated action in the field. Founded in 1895, ICA is one of the oldest non-governmental organisations and has over 1 billion members.

An email query sent to ICA's New Delhi chapter remained unanswered till the press time. Also, the NGO did not respond to repeated calls and messages. ICA is planning to hold a global conference in New Delhi for the first time in November this year. It will bring cooperatives from around the world and explore their role in creating a collective, peaceful and prosperous future for all, according to ICA's website.


The home ministry did not respond to ET queries on the reasons to cancel the licence. Sources, however, said the action has been taken as per the law. As per FRRA rules, "No association whose certificate of registration has been cancelled or expired shall either receive or utilise foreign contribution until the certificate is renewed."