'Concerning And Troubling': Government On Trump's $21 Million 'India Fund' Claim

New Delhi: On information put out by the US President Donald Trump 's remark on USAID’s $21 million to India to "get someone else elected" during the Lok Sabha election 2024, the Ministry of External Affairs' spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal expressed “concern” and said its ”deeply troubling"

In a media briefing, MEA spokesperson said, “We have seen information that has been put out by the US administration regarding certain USA activities and funding.” 

MEA Expresses ‘Concern’ Over Trump's USAID Remarks on India

MEA spokesperson, Randhir Jaiswal said, "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.” Randhir Jaiswal added.

MEA spokesperson noted that "It would be premature to make a public comment at this stage, so relevant authorities are looking into, and hopefully we can come up with an update on that subsequently," 

Also Read: BJP Demands Probe into 'Deep State' Angle Amid Trump's 'Kickback Scheme' Remark on $21Mn Funding Row

The issue gained attention after US President Donald Trump, speaking at the Republican Governors Association (RGA) meeting, criticized the use of American taxpayer money for voter turnout in India. He labeled it a ‘kickback scheme’ and raised concerns over similar funding for Bangladesh and Nepal, urging that such expenditures be halted.

Trump's 'Kickback Scheme' Remark on USAID $21Mn Funding

Trump said, “And USD 21 million for voter turnout in India. Why are we caring about India turnout? We got enough problems. We want our own turnout, don't we? Can you imagine all that money going to India? I wonder what they think when they get it. Now, it's a kickback scheme”

The controversy intensified when the US Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), led by Elon Musk, revealed the cancellation of the $21 million funding. DOGE’s list of scrapped taxpayer-funded projects included the voter turnout initiative for India.