Miami: Former U.S. President Donald Trump has justified the decision by the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) to revoke $21 million (₹160 crore) in funding meant to support voter participation in India’s elections. Speaking at an event in Miami, Trump questioned the rationale behind spending American taxpayer money on foreign elections.
"Should we be spending $21 million to ensure voter participation in India's elections? I believe the Biden administration was trying to influence the outcome in some way. This is something that the Indian government should take note of," Trump stated.
He further argued that given India's economic strength and trade policies, such financial assistance was unnecessary. “Why should we be giving India $21 million? They have plenty of money. From America's perspective, India is one of the most highly taxed nations in the world. They impose massive tariffs. While I respect India and Prime Minister Modi, why are we funding their voter participation?” Trump questioned.
Elon Musk’s DOGE Withdraws Financial Assistance to India
On February 16, DOGE, led by Elon Musk, announced the withdrawal of financial aid earmarked for India, citing concerns over the misuse of American taxpayer money. The agency clarified that U.S. tax dollars should not be allocated to such initiatives, leading to the termination of various foreign aid programs, including those directed towards India.
Political Repercussions in India
The decision triggered a political controversy in India, with the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) alleging that the U.S. financial assistance amounted to foreign interference in India’s electoral process. The party accused the Congress-led UPA government of having previously facilitated external influence that compromised India's sovereignty.
BJP IT cell head Amit Malviya claimed that billionaire George Soros was behind these foreign interventions, aiming to destabilize India.
Meanwhile, the Congress Party has called for a thorough investigation into the matter. In a statement, the party asserted:
"Any form of foreign interference in India's democratic and electoral processes is unnecessary and unacceptable. The Congress party firmly opposes it and considers it deplorable."
The controversy continues to spark debates about foreign funding in India’s electoral framework and the broader implications of U.S. involvement in global democratic initiatives.
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