Amidst concerns over foreign funding and possible government interference, Yamini Aiyar has stepped down as President and CEO of Centre for Policy Research (CPR). Srinivas Chokkakula will be taking over as the next President of the think tank, which has been at the forefront of policy discussions and research in India. This resignation comes as Aiyar's father, Mani Shankar Aiyar, is speculated to contest in the upcoming Lok Sabha elections and may face strong opposition in Mayiladuthurai constituency. CPR has faced criticism and lost its FCRA licence due to alleged misuse of foreign funds in the past.
Yamini Aiyar Resigns from Centre for Policy Research Amidst Controversy
On March 16, 2023, Yamini Aiyar announced her resignation as President and CEO of the Centre for Policy Research (CPR), a prominent think tank in India. This announcement came amidst concerns over foreign funding and possible government interference.
Background
CPR has been at the forefront of policy discussions and research in India for over three decades. Aiyar, who had led the organization since 2014, is a respected economist and public intellectual. However, in recent years, the organization has faced criticism over its alleged misuse of foreign funds.
Concerns Over Foreign Funding
In August 2020, the Ministry of Home Affairs revoked CPR's Foreign Contribution Regulation Act (FCRA) license, which allowed it to receive foreign funds. The ministry alleged that CPR had not used the funds for the purposes specified in its application. CPR has denied these allegations.
Possible Government Interference
In addition to the concerns over foreign funding, there have also been allegations of government interference in CPR's work. In 2018, the organization was reportedly denied permission to host a conference on the relationship between China and India.
Aiyar's Resignation
Aiyar's resignation comes at a time when her father, Mani Shankar Aiyar, is speculated to contest in the upcoming Lok Sabha elections. Aiyar has expressed concerns that his candidacy could potentially damage CPR's credibility and reputation.
Top 5 FAQs
1. Why did Yamini Aiyar resign from CPR?
A: Aiyar resigned amidst concerns over foreign funding and possible government interference.
2. What is the Foreign Contribution Regulation Act (FCRA)?
A: FCRA regulates the receipt of foreign funds by NGOs in India.
3. Why was CPR's FCRA license revoked?
A: The Ministry of Home Affairs alleged that CPR had misused foreign funds.
4. Has CPR ever faced allegations of government interference before?
A: Yes, in 2018, CPR was reportedly denied permission to host a conference on China.
5. What will happen to CPR after Aiyar's departure?
A: Srinivas Chokkakula will be taking over as the next President of CPR.
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