The Central Bureau of Investigation has registered a case against US-based Christian missionary organisation The Timothy Initiative over alleged foreign-funding violations. The case concerns around ₹92.55 crore allegedly received and used in India between November 2025 and April 2026 without the required FCRA clearance. Investigators say more than 1,000 foreign debit cards were circulated in India, with withdrawals made through ATMs in several states. The Enforcement Directorate had earlier investigated the alleged financial network and referred its findings to the Union Home Ministry. The probe also examines allegations that some funds reached areas affected by Left-Wing Extremism, though those allegations remain part of the investigation.What Is The CBI Investigating?The CBI case centres on allegations that TTI and several India-based functionaries used foreign-issued debit cards to access funds without following India's foreign-contribution rules. According to the FIR and agency findings reported by multiple outlets, approximately .995 million, equivalent to about ₹92.55 crore, was allegedly utilised during the six-month period. Investigators are examining whether the money was used for missionary activities and whether part of the financial network operated in regions affected by Left-Wing Extremism.The organisation named in the case is The Timothy Initiative.The alleged foreign funding amounts to ₹92.55 crore.More than 1,000 foreign debit cards were reportedly circulated.Cards were issued by US-based Truist Bank, according to investigators.The CBI case follows an earlier ED investigation.How The Funding WorkedAccording to investigators, the alleged network relied on foreign debit cards rather than the standard FCRA mechanism for receiving and using foreign contributions in India. Reports say cards issued by Truist Bank were used to withdraw cash from ATMs across Karnataka, Chhattisgarh, Assam and other locations.The ED investigation reportedly found more than 1,000 such cards in circulation over several years. Investigators also alleged that some cards were issued or operated using common or fictitious names. During searches in April, officials reportedly seized foreign debit cards, cash and digital devices.Also Read: Lucknow News: Woman Dragged on Car Bonnet Near Janeshwar Mishra ParkFCRA Rules At CentreThe Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Act, 2010 regulates the acceptance and utilisation of foreign contributions in India. The Ministry of Home Affairs says eligible organisations generally need FCRA registration or prior permission to receive foreign contributions and must follow specified procedures for their use and reporting.The CBI case alleges that TTI did not have the required FCRA clearance while the money was being used for missionary activities. The allegations include provisions of the FCRA and other criminal laws, while investigators continue to examine the financial transactions and activities connected with the organisation.Left-Wing Extremism Link ExaminedOne of the more serious aspects of the investigation is the alleged movement of funds toward areas affected by Left-Wing Extremism. The ED's findings, as reported by Indian media, alleged that a portion of the money reached networks in regions affected by Maoist activity.However, the alleged link should be distinguished from a proven judicial finding. The CBI has registered a case and is investigating the allegations; the charges and claims have not by themselves established criminal liability. The investigation will determine the nature and purpose of the transactions.Key HighlightsCBI has registered a case involving The Timothy Initiative.The alleged foreign funds involved total ₹92.55 crore.More than 1,000 foreign debit cards were reportedly circulated.Investigators say the cards were used for ATM cash withdrawals.The case concerns alleged violations of the FCRA.Agencies are also examining alleged links to Left-Wing Extremism-affected areas.Probe Continues Into FundingThe case against The Timothy Initiative follows an investigation by the Enforcement Directorate and a subsequent complaint from the Union Home Ministry. The CBI is now examining the alleged foreign-funding mechanism, the people involved and the purposes for which the money was used.The investigation has brought attention to the use of foreign financial instruments in India and the regulatory requirements governing overseas contributions. The alleged connection with Left-Wing Extremism remains an investigative claim, and further findings or legal proceedings will determine the facts of the case.Disclaimer: This article is provided for knowledge and news-information purposes only. The allegations mentioned are under investigation and should not be treated as established guilt unless proven through due legal process.
