Reports | Investigation will start on USAID $21 Million Issue
India Launches Probe Into US Allegations of Election Interference
New Delhi has initiated an investigation following explosive claims by former US President Donald Trump that $21 million in American taxpayer money was allocated to influence Indian voter turnout. The External Affairs Ministry termed these allegations “deeply troubling” and confirmed relevant agencies are examining potential foreign interference in India’s democratic processes.
The Controversy Explained
- Trump’s Repeated Claims: The ex-president stated multiple times that US funds were intended to “get somebody else elected” in India, though he provided no evidence.
- US Agency Records: Documents show the amount was canceled, not spent. A now-deleted tweet by Elon Musk’s “Department of Government Efficiency” first flagged this allocation.
- Conflicting Reports: While The Indian Express claimed the funds were for Bangladesh’s elections, Trump’s assertions and internal US debates suggest otherwise.
Global Reactions
- Russia’s Earlier Warning: In 2024, Moscow accused the US of meddling in India’s elections—a charge Washington denied.
- Media Scrutiny: International outlets are closely tracking India’s probe, with headlines like “New Delhi Investigates ‘Deeply Troubling’ US Election Claims.”
Why This Matters
- Sovereignty Concerns: Any proven foreign interference undermines India’s electoral integrity.
- Diplomatic Strain: The probe could impact India-US relations, especially if evidence surfaces.
- Precedent Setting: The investigation may lead to stricter oversight of foreign-funded NGOs and agencies.
What’s Next?
India’s probe will scrutinize:
- Whether US entities attempted to influence elections.
- If canceled funds were part of a broader strategy.
- Links between US aid and local activist groups.
The Bottom Line: As facts emerge, this case could redefine how democracies counter covert foreign interventions. For now, Delhi’s message is clear: India’s elections belong solely to its people.