Washington: The Joe Biden administration has come under fire from former US President Donald Trump for allegedly allocating $21 million under USAID to increase voter participation in India. His reaction followed the cancellation of the funding by the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), led by Elon Musk, as part of a broader initiative to curb what it considers unnecessary overseas spending.
Trump’s Allegations Against USAID Funding
Speaking at Mar-a-Lago on Tuesday, Trump raised concerns over the financial aid, questioning its necessity. “Why are we paying India $21 million? They are much wealthier. They are among the nations that impose the biggest taxes on us; their tariffs are so exorbitant that we can scarcely enter. Although I really like India and its Prime Minister, is it really worth $21 million to increase voter turnout?” he remarked.
The remarks come in the wake of the DOGE’s announcement on February 16, which suspended multiple USAID projects, including the $21 million earmarked for India. The decision was part of a larger spending review that also saw the cancellation of $29 million meant for “strengthening the political landscape in Bangladesh” and $39 million for “fiscal federalism” and “biodiversity conservation” in Nepal.
Political Uproar in India
Trump’s revelation has triggered a political controversy in India, with the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) openly criticizing the funding. BJP leader Amit Malviya took to X (formerly Twitter), stating, “$21M for voter turnout? This is unquestionably outside meddling in India’s election process. Who benefits from this? Definitely not the governing party.”
Malviya further linked the funding to US billionaire George Soros, a known critic of nationalist governments, alleging that he has long been involved in supporting opposition forces in India. “Once again, it is George Soros, a known associate of the Congress party and the Gandhis, whose shadow looms over our electoral process,” he wrote.
The BJP has in the past voiced concerns about potential foreign interference in Indian elections, often pointing to international organizations allegedly linked to opposition leaders. Malviya also cited a 2012 Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the International Foundation for Electoral Systems (IFES) and the Election Commission of India, asserting that such collaborations must be scrutinized for their intent and impact.
Congress Dismisses Allegations
In response, Congress spokesperson Jairam Ramesh dismissed the claims as a “diversionary tactic” by the BJP to avoid discussing pressing domestic issues. “This is yet another attempt by the BJP to shift focus from unemployment, inflation, and governance failures. The BJP is trying to create a false narrative of foreign interference while using central agencies to stifle dissent at home,” he said.
Broader Implications
The controversy also raises questions about the broader implications of the US government’s foreign aid programs. The decision to cancel funding for India and other South Asian countries signals a shift in US foreign policy, potentially affecting diplomatic relations.
Political analysts argue that Trump’s criticism of Biden’s overseas spending is part of his larger re-election strategy, appealing to his “America First” base. At the same time, the BJP’s reaction underscores the sensitivity surrounding foreign involvement in Indian electoral processes, especially as the country heads into a crucial election cycle.
As the debate intensifies, the focus remains on whether there will be further disclosures regarding international funding in Indian elections and how both Indian and US authorities address these concerns.
