Fri Feb 21 16:11:06 UTC 2025: **VP Dhankhar Condemns US President’s Allegations of Election Interference, Warns of ‘Wokeism’ Threat**
NEW DELHI (The Hindu) – Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar strongly condemned US President Donald Trump’s statement alleging the expenditure of $21 million to influence Indian elections, calling it a “shocking expose” that undermines India’s democracy. Speaking at the valedictory ceremony of the Rajya Sabha internship programme on Friday, Dhankhar asserted that only the Indian people have the right to elect their leaders, and any attempt to manipulate the process is unacceptable.
Dhankhar further warned of a growing threat of “wokeism” tainting India’s institutions, including those of the President, Vice President, and Prime Minister. He emphasized that these are not merely political positions but vital national institutions deserving of respect.
The Vice President’s comments come amidst a controversy surrounding USAID funding in India. The BJP has accused the Congress party and associated NGOs of attempting to influence Indian elections with the aid of USAID funds, calling the allegations “deeply troubling” and launching an investigation. Rahul Gandhi has been specifically targeted for allegedly acting as a “tool for foreign agencies.” Veena Reddy, the first Indian American to lead USAID in India, is also facing scrutiny.
Dhankhar called for a thorough investigation into the alleged interference, demanding that those involved be exposed and held accountable for what he termed a “sinister activity” aimed at destroying Indian democracy.
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