U.S. President Donald Trump’s recent assertion that a $21 million U.S. aid package was allocated to boost voter turnout in India has ignited a fierce political debate within the country. Speaking at the Republican Governors Association meeting, Trump questioned the necessity of such funding, labeling it a “kickback scheme.” He stated, “Why are we caring about India turnout? We got enough problems. We want our own turnout, don’t we? Can you imagine all that money going to India? It’s a kickback scheme.”
The ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) swiftly seized upon Trump’s remarks, suggesting potential foreign interference in India’s electoral process. Amit Malviya, head of the BJP’s IT cell, echoed Trump’s concerns, alleging that such funds might be used to support “deep-state assets” within India. He emphasized the need for an investigation to determine if opposition parties, particularly the Congress party, benefited from these alleged kickbacks.
In response, the Congress party dismissed the allegations as baseless. Spokesperson Pawan Khera challenged the BJP’s narrative, questioning how such funds could enter the country unnoticed by India’s security agencies. He remarked, “If despite having so many security agencies, the Modi government allowed $21 million to enter India, then it is a matter of shame.”
Further complicating the matter, an investigation by Business Standard revealed that the $21 million in question was actually allocated by the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) for voter engagement initiatives in Bangladesh, not India. Official records indicate that no such funding has been directed toward India since 2008.
This revelation has led to calls for greater transparency and accuracy in public statements, especially those with significant diplomatic implications. As the controversy unfolds, it underscores the sensitivity surrounding foreign aid and its potential impact on domestic politics.
