New Delhi: The Indian government has launched an investigation into claims that the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) allocated $21 million to influence voter turnout in India. External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar described the allegations as “concerning and worrisome,” emphasizing that USAID was permitted to operate in India under “good faith” agreements and not for activities that undermine trust.
“Some information has been put out by the Trump administration, and obviously, that is concerning. If there’s truth to these claims, the country must know who is involved,” Jaishankar stated at an event in New Delhi.
Meanwhile, Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) also expressed concern, labeling the reports as “deeply troubling” and highlighting the risks of foreign interference in India’s internal affairs. MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal confirmed that relevant government agencies are actively investigating the matter.
“We have seen reports about certain US activities and funding. These concerns are being examined, and relevant authorities will provide updates in due course,” Jaiswal stated.
Notably, the US Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), led by Trump ally Elon Musk, recently claimed on X (formerly Twitter) that USAID had allocated the funds but later canceled them.
According to an official named Alok, foreign funding had previously flowed into India unchecked. He alleged that between 2004 and 2014, the Indian government received $2.1 billion in such funds, but the figure dropped to $1.5 million between 2014 and 2025. He further claimed that funds were used for activities such as the Bharat Jodo Yatra.
The controversy has sparked debate over foreign influence in India’s democratic processes, with the government closely examining the claims.
