Daijiworld Media Network - Washington
Washington, Feb 23: US President Donald Trump has alleged that the Biden administration allocated 18 million dollars to India to support its elections, questioning the necessity of such funding. Speaking at the Conservative Political Action Conference (CPAC) on February 22, 2025, Trump criticized the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) for its financial aid to India and other nations.
“Eighteen million dollars to help India with its elections. Why are we doing this? Why don’t we just go back to paper ballots and let them help us with our elections instead? Voter ID—that would be nice, wouldn’t it?” Trump remarked.
He further accused India of exploiting the U.S., citing high tariffs on American goods. “India is one of the highest tariff nations in the world. We face a 200% tariff there, and yet we’re sending them money to help with their elections,” he said.
Trump also took aim at USAID for allocating 29 million dollars to Bangladesh, claiming that the funds were being used to bolster support for a left-wing political figure. “Twenty-nine million dollars to shape their political landscape and ensure votes for a radical leftist in Bangladesh,” he stated, without naming any specific leader.
These remarks have reignited controversy surrounding USAID’s financial assistance programs. Trump has repeatedly asserted that the Biden administration funneled 21 million dollars to India for voter turnout efforts, a claim that has sparked debates within India regarding foreign involvement in domestic elections.
In response to Trump's allegations, India’s External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar described the claims as "concerning" and assured that the government was examining the matter closely. Speaking at an event in New Delhi, Jaishankar acknowledged that USAID was permitted to operate in India under the assumption of good faith but emphasized the need to scrutinize any potential misconduct.
“If there are activities conducted in bad faith, the country must be informed about those involved,” he stated.
Meanwhile, India’s Congress Party has urged Prime Minister Narendra Modi to directly address the allegations and refute them strongly.
Trump's accusations follow his earlier claims made at a Republican Governors Association meeting on February 20, where he described the funding to India as a "kickback" scheme. He continued to highlight the issue over multiple speeches, alleging that USAID, under the previous administration, allocated funds to India’s Election Commission to boost voter participation.
Adding to the controversy, Trump's Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), led by Elon Musk, reported on February 16 that USAID had planned to allocate $21 million to India’s elections but confirmed that all such initiatives had been canceled.
The situation has triggered widespread debate, raising questions about foreign funding in electoral processes and the transparency of international aid programs.