Donald Trump’s claim that the US allocated $21 million to enhance voter turnout in India sparked significant political debate. The BJP accused the Congress of seeking foreign intervention, while the Congress refuted the claim as baseless. Amid ongoing investigations, it was revealed that no such funding was given to India, as the funds were actually designated for Bangladesh.
A political controversy has erupted in India following US President Donald Trump’s assertion that his administration allocated $21 million to boost voter turnout in India’s elections. This comment came shortly after Elon Musk’s team announced the cancellation of funding from a US agency involved in foreign aid, which has led the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) to frame the funding as an instance of “external interference,” accusing the Congress Party of soliciting foreign intervention.
In response, the Congress Party dismissed Trump’s comments as “nonsensical,” pointing out the lack of evidence from the US to substantiate such a claim. India’s Ministry of External Affairs expressed concern, labeling the claims as “deeply troubling” and indicated that current investigations are ongoing to ascertain the situation.
Trump, in advocating for fiscal responsibility, promoted the establishment of the Department of Government Efficiency (Doge) under Musk’s leadership, aimed at reducing federal spending. Musk’s criticism of USAID as a “criminal organization” emphasizes the agency’s long history of humanitarian support, which has recently faced severe budget cuts, including the $486 million reduction affecting various programs.
During a recent summit, Trump reiterated his skepticism regarding the $21 million intended for voter turnout in India, suggesting that the country, being highly taxed, could sustain its electoral processes without outside help. This exchange coincides with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s recent engagement with Trump, where military and economic partnerships were bolstered.
Meanwhile, BJP’s Amit Malviya shared a clip of Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, alleging that Gandhi was pleading for foreign intervention in India’s governance. Congress leader Jairam Ramesh rejected these allegations and called for transparency regarding USAID’s contributions to both governmental and non-governmental organizations in India under Prime Minister Modi’s administration.
Despite multiple reports and claims, neither Doge nor Trump has provided substantial evidence confirming the disbursement of $21 million for voter turnout in India, as even former election head SY Qureshi stated that no such funding was received during his tenure. Investigations revealed that this supposed funding was actually allocated for a program in Bangladesh, with a significant portion already expended.
The controversy surrounding Trump’s remarks on voting aid for India has intensified political discourse, with significant allegations being exchanged between the ruling BJP and the opposition Congress. Despite claims made by Trump, evidence supporting the existence of such funding remains elusive, while India’s investigative bodies continue to scrutinize the matter. The situation underscores the complex nature of international relations and domestic political dynamics in India.
Original Source: www.bbc.com
