NGO Consultant

NGO Consultant
Odisha NGO Consultancy Services

Saturday, July 23, 2016

Online Facility for Lokpal Forms

In a surprisingly swift move, FCRA Department has set up an online facility for submission of Lokpal declarations. The link to the portal is here:https://fcraonline.nic.in/fc_lokpal_initial.aspx

Steps for filing the declaration online are:

1. Prepare, print and sign the declaration.

2. Scan the signed declaration as PDF, making sure file size doesn't exceed 10MB (tip: use smallpdf.com to make the file smaller for quicker upload).

3. Punch in the NGO's FCRA number at the link given above. This opens up a small utility where you can punch in the Member's/ Trustee's name and designation.

4. Upload the PDF file you have prepared.

5. FCRA Department is asking for FY 15-16 return only

This appears to be an initial effort, with some flaws:

1. There is no requirement that the return must be filed online.

2. There is no order specifying FCRA Department as the 'Competent Authority' for this.

3. There is no security or password for individuals logging in as NGO officers.

4. The filing is being linked to particular NGOs. What happens to an individual who is a trustee in multiple NGOs? Should they log in separately for each NGO?