Tue Aug 05 02:01:01 UTC 2025: Here’s a summary of the text and a rewritten news article, keeping in mind the “View From India” perspective and other elements mentioned:
**Summary:**
The U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi has reportedly ordered a grand jury investigation into allegations that members of the Obama administration manufactured intelligence regarding Russian interference in the 2016 elections. This follows claims by Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard and accusations by former Republican President Donald Trump, who alleges Obama committed treason by falsely linking him to Russia. These allegations are vehemently denied by Obama’s spokesperson, who calls them ridiculous and a distraction. The original intelligence assessment in 2017 concluded that Russia did attempt to interfere in the election to damage Hillary Clinton and help Trump, but the actual impact on the election results was likely limited.
**News Article:**
**From Washington to Delhi: US Justice Department Opens Probe Into Obama-Era Intelligence**
**WASHINGTON, August 5, 2025 (The Hindu) -** In a development that could further polarize American politics, U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi has reportedly directed federal prosecutors to initiate a grand jury investigation into allegations that former Obama administration officials manufactured intelligence concerning Russian interference in the 2016 presidential election.
The move comes amidst a swirl of accusations and counter-accusations, reminiscent of the political turbulence that marked the Trump presidency. Republican U.S. President Donald Trump had long alleged that Obama led an effort to falsely tie him to Russia, and undermine his campaign. Ms. Bondi’s order follows comments by Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard, who has publicly threatened to refer Obama administration officials to the Justice Department for prosecution over an intelligence assessment.
“This situation is concerning. The politicization of intelligence is a dangerous path, particularly for a democracy grappling with external interference,” said an Indian strategic analyst speaking on condition of anonymity. “From Delhi’s perspective, stability and predictability in Washington are crucial, and these kinds of internal conflicts raise questions about the long-term reliability of the U.S. as a partner.”
While the Justice Department has not officially commented, reports suggest that a federal prosecutor has been tasked with presenting evidence to a grand jury, which could potentially lead to indictments.
A spokesperson for former President Obama has dismissed the allegations as “ridiculous and a weak attempt at distraction.”
The core of the controversy lies in a 2017 intelligence assessment that concluded Russia interfered in the 2016 election to damage Hillary Clinton and bolster Donald Trump’s chances. The assessment determined the impact was likely limited and showed no evidence that Moscow’s efforts actually changed voting outcomes. Russia has repeatedly denied any interference.
The investigation is likely to be closely watched in India, where concerns about foreign interference in elections are growing. The incident highlights the increasing challenge of maintaining trust in democratic institutions amid a global landscape of disinformation and geopolitical competition.
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