On Friday, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) expressed grave concern over some of the recent disclosures of the US administration regarding certain USAID activities and funding in India. Earlier, former US President Donald Trump said that American aid funds have been misused to undermine India’s electoral process.
Trump’s comments came after the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), headed by Elon Musk, unveiled that USAID injected $21 million into the Election Commission of India for enhanced voter turnout. On February 16, it disclosed the list of various expenditures from US taxpayer money, including $21 million for India, which it then rolled back.
These revelations were responded to by MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal, who said, “We have seen information that has been put out by the US administration regarding some of the USAID activities and funding.” These are very troubling and have justified concerns over possible foreign interference in India’s internal affairs. The matter is being looked at by relevant departments and agencies. Although it would be premature to say anything at this stage, as we would not like to comment on the investigation until further, we will of course provide updates as this progresses.”
“This was a kickback scheme,” Trump said Thursday from the podium of the now cancelled fund at the Republican Governors Association meeting in Washington DC and called the organization a ‘kickback’ plan. He asked if it was appropriate that US money was being thrown at people in India’s elections, “$21 million for getting people to vote in India. Why is this about India’s turnout? We have enough problems. We just have to focus on our own elections.”
This is an issue that has stirred up a political debate, as this funding could prejudge the electoral integrity of this country. The Indian government is expected to stand firm against any possible interference in its democratic process by an external influence.
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