India rejects Trump's USAID funding claims, terms allegations 'deeply troubling'
PTC Web Desk: The Central Government has strongly objected to former US President Donald Trump’s recent claims that a $21 million USAID grant was allocated to influence India's electoral process. Addressing the media on Friday, Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal described the allegations as "deeply troubling" and assured that the matter is under review by the relevant authorities.
"We have noted the statements made by the US administration regarding certain USAID activities and funding. Such claims raise serious concerns about foreign interference in India's internal affairs," Jaiswal said. He added that government agencies are examining the issue and will provide further updates when appropriate.
Trump, speaking at an event in Miami earlier this week, announced the cancellation of a USAID grant, alleging that the Biden administration had intended to interfere in India's 2024 Lok Sabha Elections. “Why should we be spending $21 million on voter turnout in India? Looks like they were trying to help someone else get elected,” Trump remarked.
However, an investigation by The Indian Express contradicts Trump's assertions. According to their report, no USAID grants have been allocated for election-related projects in India since 2008. Instead, the only known USAID-funded election initiative in Asia was a $21 million grant for Bangladesh’s “Amar Vote Amar” (My Vote is Mine) voter participation project in 2022.
Trump’s remarks have fueled political tensions in India, with the ruling BJP accusing the Congress of seeking foreign interference and branding Rahul Gandhi a "traitor." In response, the Congress demanded an apology from the BJP and called for the release of a white paper detailing USAID funding and similar foreign contributions in India. The party also accused the BJP of attempting to divert attention from its own history of foreign funding in Indian politics.
- With inputs from agencies
