NEW DELHI – Trump voter turnout claim US allocated $21 million to boost voter turnout in India’s elections has triggered a heated political clash, with India’s ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) accusing the opposition Congress party of soliciting foreign intervention. The controversy erupted after Trump cited the figure during a speech, linking it to his administration’s broader crackdown on foreign aid programs.
The Allegations and Reactions
- Trump’s Claim: Speaking at a Miami summit, Trump questioned why the US spent $21 million on “India’s voter turnout,” suggesting it aimed to influence election outcomes.
- BJP’s Response: The BJP labeled the alleged funding “external interference” and accused Congress leader Rahul Gandhi of lobbying foreign powers to undermine India’s democracy.
- Congress’s Denial: Congress dismissed the claims as “baseless,” with spokesperson Jairam Ramesh urging the government to disclose USAID’s historical partnerships with Indian institutions under BJP rule.
The dispute intensified when BJP leader Amit Malviya shared a 2023 video of Gandhi criticizing Indian democracy abroad, alleging it proved Congress sought foreign intervention. Gandhi’s team called the accusation a “distraction” from domestic issues.
Background: USAID, Doge, and Musk’s Crackdown
Trump’s remarks followed the cancellation of 486 million in USAID projects by the Department of Government Efficiency (Doge), a cost−cutting agency led by Elon Musk. Doge axed funds for initiatives like “voter turn out in India”21 million) and Moldovan political reforms ($22 million), calling USAID a “criminal organization.”
- USAID’s Role: Active since the 1960s, USAID has funded global governance projects, including some in India.
- India’s Stance: Foreign Ministry spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal called the claims “deeply troubling” but urged patience pending an investigation.
Fact-Checking the $21M Claim
Despite widespread media coverage, neither Trump nor Doge has provided evidence for the $21 million allocation. Key findings:
- Indian Election Commission: Former chief SY Qureshi denied receiving USAID funds during his tenure (2010–2012).
- Media Reports: The Indian Express reported that 21 million was earmarked for Bangladesh, not India, 13.4 million already spent.
- BJP’s 2012 Allegation: Malviya claimed the Election Commission partnered with a USAID-linked group in 2012. Qureshi called this “malicious,” noting the agreement had no financial obligations.
Political Fallout and Diplomatic Context
The row comes weeks after Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s Washington visit, where Trump announced plans to expand defense and trade ties. Analysts say the timing risks straining US-India relations:
- BJP’s Strategy: Critics argue the party is leveraging the controversy to paint Congress as anti-national ahead of state elections.
- Congress’s Counter: The opposition demands transparency, citing USAID’s past collaborations with BJP-led initiatives.
Broader Implications
- US-India Relations: The dispute tests recent efforts to strengthen bilateral ties, with both sides downplaying tensions.
- Domestic Politics: The BJP and Congress remain locked in a cycle of mutual allegations, diverting focus from economic and social issues.
- Foreign Aid Scrutiny: Musk’s Doge continues reviewing USAID projects, signaling a shift toward austerity in US global spending.
What Happens Next?
- India’s Foreign Ministry is investigating the $21M claim.
- The US has not clarified whether funds reached India or were redirected.
- Political analysts warn the controversy could deepen polarization in India’s already fractious democracy.
