US President Donald Trump criticized the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) for providing funds to interfere in India’s election process. He questioned the need for aid to India, claiming that the country benefits from high tariffs on American goods. Speaking at the Conservative Political Action Conference (CPAC) in Washington, President Trump highlighted the allocation of funds for voter turnout in India, questioning the necessity of such assistance. The figures mentioned by President Trump, however, were subject to verification as conflicting reports emerged regarding the actual amount allocated.
External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar responded to President Trump’s allegations, expressing concerns over the claims made by the Trump administration. The Congress demanded a white paper on funds received from developmental agencies in India and called for legal action against those spreading allegations of foreign interference in Indian democracy. Congress spokesperson Pawan Khera refuted President Trump’s statements, clarifying that the funds in question were directed towards Bangladesh, not India.
President Trump also mentioned an unnamed firm in Bangladesh receiving $29 million in funding, raising further concerns about foreign financial assistance. The BJP’s Ajay Alok dismissed Congress’s claims as baseless, emphasizing the Indian government’s efforts to address such issues. The ongoing controversy surrounding foreign aid and alleged interference in Indian democracy has sparked debates and calls for transparency in the utilization of development funds.
