“Trump Claims USAID Meddled In India’s Elections”

Former US President Donald Trump has accused the previous Joe Biden administration of interfering in elections in India. Speaking at the FII PRIORITY Summit in Miami, Trump questioned why the US spent $21 million on voter turnout in India, suggesting it was an attempt to influence the election outcome. He said, “Why do we need to spend $21 million on voter turnout in India? I guess they were trying to get somebody else elected.”

Trump also criticized the funding, saying, “Why are we giving USD 21 million to India? They have a lot more money. They are one of the highest taxing countries in the world. I have a lot of respect for India and their Prime Minister, but giving USD 21 million for voter turnout?”

DOGE Cuts Funding

The DOGE, led by billionaire Elon Musk, announced cost-cutting measures, including the cancellation of the $21 million allocated for voter turnout in India. The department also cancelled $486 million in grants to the “Consortium for Elections and Political Process Strengthening” and $22 million for political participation programs in Moldova.

Political Controversy in India

Trump’s remarks sparked political controversy in India. The ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) accused the US of interfering in India’s election process. BJP leader Amit Malviya called it “external interference” and questioned who would benefit from it, insisting it was “not the ruling party for sure.”

He also linked the cancelled program to the previous Congress-led UPA government, accusing them of allowing foreign influence in Indian institution.

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