Two MHA Officials Held in Delhi for Allegedly Seeking Bribes From Association to Facilitate FCRA Registration, Renewal:

Two officials of the Union Home Ministry have been apprehended for allegedly demanding a bribe from an association to help it get registration under the Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Act (FCRA), the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) said.

The two officials - a senior accountant and an accountant were apprehended in New Delhi on September 28 by the Delhi Police Special Cell in coordination with central agencies.

According to the MHA, one of the officials is currently posted in the Foreigners Division, while the other works in a Pay and Accounts Office and had earlier been posted in the Foreigners Division.

During preliminary questioning, the officials were allegedly found to be in contact with some associations and seeking money to help them with FCRA registration and renewal.

The MHA said further investigation is underway and legal and departmental action will be taken against the accused officials.

The ministry also reiterated its zero-tolerance policy towards corruption and said all FCRA-related services are available online through the official FCRA portal.

The MHA said no intermediary, agent or individual is authorised to help applicants obtain FCRA services.