What’s the Role of NGOs?
NGOs are typically formed to contribute to social welfare, but recent findings show that certain organizations have been using foreign funds to block major projects in India. These projects include those run by big companies like Adani and JSW Power. Instead of working for social good, they were involved in halting development projects through protests and influencing people negatively.
The Expose of the Scandal
The entire case began to unfold after the Income Tax Department conducted raids in September 2022. The Indian Express reports that these raids exposed some shocking truths about how these NGOs were working together in their efforts to disrupt development. For instance, one NGO director was found to be a shareholder in another NGO, indicating a coordinated effort.
Direct Involvement in Halting Projects
The investigation revealed a direct interest from Oxfam India in having Adani Ports delisted. On September 7th, the Income Tax Department raided five NGOs, including Oxfam, CPR, Environics Trust, LIFE, and CISSD. These NGOs were found to be actively working against major infrastructure projects in the country.
75% Funding from Foreign Countries
One of the major revelations from the raids was that 75% of the funding for these NGOs came from foreign sources over the last five years. This money was being used to fuel campaigns against large companies and their projects, including those run by the Adani Group. Oxfam India, for example, was found to be working with Oxfam Australia to block these projects.
Manipulating People to Protest
Concerns about the role of these NGOs had been growing for some time. The Income Tax Department’s findings confirmed that these organizations were involved in efforts to influence people against development projects like those of Adani and JSW Power. The investigation showed that these NGOs were interconnected, with their leaders also being linked to one another. Instead of working for the public good, they used foreign funding to encourage protests and disrupt progress.
Conclusion: A Misuse of the NGO System
The main aim of any non-profit organization should be to benefit society, but these NGOs diverted funds to block major infrastructure projects. Their efforts to stir protests and block developments raise significant questions about the role of foreign-funded NGOs in India.