Trump justifies cutting $21M for India voter turnout: ‘They have plenty of money’
US President Donald Trump defended the decision to cancel a $21 million fund for voter turnout in India. He argued that India, with its strong economy and high taxes, did not need US financial aid.
“Why are we giving $21 million to India? They have a lot more money. They impose high tariffs, making it hard for us to do business there. I respect India and Prime Minister Modi, but funding voter turnout there makes no sense,” Trump said at Mar-a-Lago while signing executive orders.
On February 16, Elon Musk-led DOGE announced the cancellation of a $22 million fund, which included $21 million for India’s voter turnout. In a post on X, DOGE listed the cut expenses, stating, “US taxpayer dollars were going to be spent on the following items, all of which have been cancelled.”
The decision sparked controversy in India. The ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) criticized the opposition Congress, claiming foreign influence on Indian institutions. BJP IT cell head Amit Malviya accused billionaire investor George Soros, a known Congress associate, of meddling in India’s elections. “Soros and his allies aim to weaken India at every opportunity,” Malviya posted on X.
Under pressure, Congress demanded an investigation. Senior leader Ajay Maken stated, “Any foreign intervention in India’s democratic process is unacceptable. We oppose it, condemn it, and call for a probe.”
