‘$21M for Voter Turnout?’ BJP Alleges 'External Interference' as DOGE Cancels Fund

New Delhi, India: The Bharatiya Janata Party ( BJP ) has raised serious concerns over foreign involvement in India’s electoral process after the US Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), led by Elon Musk, announced the cancellation of a $21 million fund initially intended for "voter turnout in India."  

Taking to X, BJP leader Amit Malviya questioned the motives behind such a fund, stating, “$21M for voter turnout? This definitely is external interference in India's electoral process. Who gains from this? Not the ruling party for sure!”

Also Read: Did the US Try to Interfere in India's Elections? Musk-Led DOGE Cancels $21Mn Funding For 'Voter Turnout In India'

The DOGE department, which has been reviewing and canceling various US taxpayer-funded programs worldwide, listed multiple funding cuts, including $22 million for Moldova’s political process, $29 million for Bangladesh’s political landscape, and $39 million for fiscal reforms in Nepal. 

Soros Link Alleged

Malviya further linked the development to billionaire George Soros, alleging his longstanding influence over India’s electoral system. He pointed to a 2012 agreement between the Election Commission of India (ECI) and The International Foundation for Electoral Systems (IFES), an organization he claimed is associated with Soros’ Open Society Foundation and primarily funded by USAID.  

"Once again, it is George Soros, a known associate of the Congress party and the Gandhis, whose shadow looms over our electoral process," Malviya wrote.

Bigger Geopolitical Picture

DOGE’s move is part of the Trump administration’s aggressive cost-cutting approach, which has led to the cancellation of several international aid programs. 

Also Read: Mega Trade Deal to 26/11 Plotter Extradition: Key Takeaways From Modi-Trump Meet

The development coincides with Prime Minister Narendra Modi ’s recent meeting with US President Donald Trump , where discussions covered trade, defense, and strategic alliances, underscoring the shifting dynamics in India-US relations.