'Deeply troubling': India on Trump's claims of US election interference
What's the story
The Indian government has described as "deeply troubling" the recent allegations made by United States President Donald Trump about possible American interference in India's electoral process under the Biden administration.
Trump alleged that the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) had granted $21 million to India with the intent of "influencing its electoral process."
During a press briefing, Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) spokesperson, Randhir Jaiswal, confirmed these claims are under investigation by relevant authorities.
Ongoing investigation
MEA confirms investigation into funding allegations
"We have seen information that has been put out by the US administration regarding certain USA activities and funding. These are obviously very deeply troubling. This has led to concerns about foreign interference in India's internal affairs."
"Relevant departments and agencies are looking into this matter. It would be premature to make a public comment at this stage, so relevant authorities are looking into it," Jaiswal said.
Funding disclosure
Elon Musk's DOGE discloses USAID's contribution
The controversy was triggered by a revelation from Elon Musk's Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE).
Musk, who described USAID as a "criminal organization," revealed on Sunday that funding for many projects had been canceled.
The cuts included $486 million for the "Consortium for Elections and Political Process Strengthening," along with "$21 million for voter turnout in India" and "$22 million for inclusive and participatory political processes in Moldova."
Funding criticism
Trump criticizes funding allocation at Republican meeting
Trump expressed his displeasure over the allocation of funds, stating India had "a lot of money" and called it a "kickback scheme."
Trump implied this money was meant to meddle in elections, triggering a political row in India.
"I guess they were trying to get somebody else elected. We have got to tell the Indian government," the US president said.
Political reactions
BJP and Congress react to Trump's allegations
Amit Malviya, head of Bharatiya Janata Party's IT cell, alleged these funds were used to support "deep-state assets" in India.
Meanwhile, Congress spokesperson Pawan Khera slammed the Modi government for allowing such funds into India and asked if they influenced BJP's 2014 election victory.
"When Modi government was asked a question about this, they said that this money came in 2012 during the UPA regime. In such a situation, did BJP win in 2014 with this money?"