In a recent development, U.S. President Donald Trump has reignited controversy by criticizing a $21 million allocation by the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) intended to boost voter turnout in India. Speaking at the Republican Governors Association meeting in Washington, D.C., Trump questioned the necessity of such expenditure, stating, “Why are we caring about India’s turnout? We have got enough problems. We want our own turnout.”
Trump further insinuated that the funds might have been part of a “kickback scheme,” suggesting that the money could be redirected back to individuals within the U.S. He also expressed concerns over a separate $29 million allocation aimed at strengthening Bangladesh’s political landscape, questioning the purpose of such spending.
These remarks have intensified political tensions in India. The ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) seized upon Trump’s statements to criticize the opposition Congress party. BJP spokesperson Gaurav Bhatia accused Congress of seeking foreign assistance to undermine Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s government, stating, “They cannot defeat Modi ji through their own efforts, so they seek support from foreign forces.”
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In response, Congress leader Pawan Khera dismissed the allegations, highlighting that during 2012, when the purported funding was allocated, the Congress party was in power. Khera questioned the BJP’s narrative, suggesting that if such funds were intended to destabilize the government, it would implicate the BJP’s 2014 electoral victory.
Further complicating the issue, an investigation by The Indian Express revealed that the $21 million in question was actually designated for Bangladesh in 2022, not India. The funds were intended to promote political and civic engagement among Bangladeshi youth ahead of their 2024 elections. This finding contradicts earlier assertions and has led to calls for a thorough review of foreign aid allocations and their intended purposes.
The controversy has prompted Indian authorities to scrutinize USAID’s activities within the country. Foreign Ministry spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal expressed concerns about potential foreign interference, stating that relevant departments are examining the matter.
This episode underscores the complex dynamics of international aid and its implications for domestic politics, highlighting the need for transparency and accurate information in discussions involving foreign funding and electoral processes.