Trump’s ‘$21 Million for Voter Turnout’ Comment Provokes Political Controversy in India
US President Donald Trump’s assertion of $21 million spent by the US on India’s voter turnout has sparked political conflict in India. The BJP condemned this as external meddling, while Congress dismissed it as absurd. India’s foreign ministry called the claims troubling, leading to further investigations. Reports suggest the funds were actually allocated for Bangladesh, not India.
A recent statement by US President Donald Trump claiming that the United States allocated $21 million to enhance voter turnout in Indian elections has ignited significant political controversy in India. This comment followed an announcement by a team led by Elon Musk, indicating that they had stopped the financial disbursement due to efforts to curb foreign aid from US agencies.
The ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) derided Trump’s assertion as “external interference,” accusing the opposition Congress party of soliciting such foreign intervention. In response, Congress labeled the allegations as “nonsensical,” criticizing the lack of evidence offered by the United States to substantiate Trump’s claims.
India’s foreign ministry expressed concern over Trump’s remark, categorizing it as “deeply troubling.” Foreign ministry spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal characterized it as “premature” to make definitive public assertions, noting that it is under investigation by relevant authorities.
Upon his return to office, Trump initiated measures to boost the US economy, including the establishment of a new government department led by Musk aimed at reducing federal expenses. Musk’s firm stance against USAID has drawn attention, particularly following the cancellation of $486 million intended for various projects, which includes the alleged $21 million for voter outreach in India.
Trump further emphasized India’s significant financial resources, questioning the necessity of the $21 million expenditure on voter turnout initiatives. This came shortly after Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Washington, where discussions on military sales, energy exports, and trade agreements took center stage.
BJP leader Amit Malviya shared a clip of Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, in which Gandhi criticized major democracies for their ignorance regarding the deterioration of democratic structures in India. Malviya accused Gandhi of seeking foreign intervention in Indian politics, a charge that Congress leader Jairam Ramesh vehemently denied, urging a review of USAID’s contributions during Modi’s administration.
Despite the widespread discourse, evidence from the US government or Elon Musk’s organization corroborating Trump’s statement has not materialized. India’s election commission has not commented on the matter, while former chief electoral officer SY Qureshi rejected claims of ever receiving such funding during his tenure. Reports suggest that the $21 million allocation was actually designated for Bangladesh, set to be administered over three years, with a portion already utilized.
The political fracas ignited by President Trump’s remarks reflects deeper issues concerning foreign influence in India’s democratic processes. Allegations from both the ruling BJP and opposition Congress party highlight the contentious nature of international involvement in domestic elections. As investigations continue, the veracity of Trump’s claim remains unverified amidst a backdrop of shifting political dynamics in India.
Original Source: www.bbc.com
