Sun Feb 23 03:46:21 UTC 2025: ## Trump Accuses USAID of Election Interference in India, Sparks Political Firestorm

**Washington, D.C./New Delhi –** Former US President Donald Trump has ignited a political controversy by accusing the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) of funneling millions of dollars to influence India’s elections. Speaking at the Conservative Political Action Conference (CPAC), Trump claimed USAID provided $18 million (with varying figures cited by different sources ranging up to $21 million) to boost voter turnout in India, questioning why the US would aid a country that imposes high tariffs on American goods. He further alleged that $29 million was given to an unnamed firm in Bangladesh to strengthen the political landscape, characterizing the recipients as “scammers.”

These accusations have been met with swift denials and counter-accusations. India’s External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar expressed concern over Trump’s allegations, stating that USAID’s activities in India were undertaken in good faith and that the government is investigating the matter. India’s Congress party has demanded a white paper on all USAID funds received and called for legal action against those spreading allegations of foreign interference. Congress spokesperson Pawan Khera stated that funds allocated for election-related activities went to Bangladesh, not India, citing a USAID contract with the Consortium for Elections and Political Process Strengthening (CEPPS) for Bangladesh, not India. This contradicts BJP member Ajay Alok’s claims.

The conflicting claims highlight the deeply partisan nature of the debate. While Trump’s supporters have amplified his accusations, Congress accuses the ruling BJP of using Trump’s claims to promote conspiracy theories. The differing figures cited for USAID funding add to the confusion, further highlighting the need for clarification from both the US and Indian governments. The controversy underscores the sensitive nature of foreign aid and its potential impact on domestic political processes.

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