Sat Feb 22 12:27:49 UTC 2025: ## Trump’s Allegations of US Funding to India Spark Political Firestorm in India

**New Delhi, India** – A political firestorm has erupted in India following former US President Donald Trump’s repeated allegations of a $21 million US taxpayer-funded initiative for voter turnout in India, which he claims was a “kickback scheme.” The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), currently in power, has seized on Trump’s statements, demanding a full investigation into the alleged funding and its beneficiaries.

Trump, speaking at a Republican Governors Association meeting and separately at a Miami summit, questioned the allocation, stating, “$21 million for voter turnout in India… Why are we caring about India’s turnout? We got enough problems.” He further alleged the money was part of a kickback scheme, suggesting the funds were not properly utilized and possibly returned to those who authorized it. He also criticized other US foreign aid spending.

The BJP’s Amit Malviya and Pradeep Bhandari have amplified Trump’s claims on social media, alleging the money was used to support “deep state assets” within India and directly implicating Congress leader Rahul Gandhi and his party in potentially benefiting from the alleged kickbacks. Bhandari explicitly called for an investigation into Gandhi’s possible involvement.

The Congress party has vehemently rejected the accusations. Pawan Khera, a Congress leader, alleged that Trump’s comments implied the funds went to Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Gaurav Gogoi, another Congress leader, criticized the BJP for inconsistent statements and changing narratives.

Adding fuel to the fire, the US Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), headed by Elon Musk, announced on February 16th the cancellation of a $22 million initiative for voter turnout in India. This seemingly corroborates, at least partially, Trump’s claims. The DOGE subsequently published a list of cancelled initiatives, including the $21 million mentioned by Trump.

The controversy has highlighted concerns about foreign interference in Indian elections and the transparency of US foreign aid spending. The BJP’s calls for an investigation are likely to intensify the political tensions in the lead-up to any future elections. The Congress party has challenged the BJP to clarify the conflicting reports surrounding the alleged funding. The incident has generated significant debate and uncertainty about the true nature of the US funding.

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