DOGE Cancels $21 Million Grant for Voter Turnout in India, BJP Raises Concerns Over Foreign Influence
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The US DOGE, led by Elon Musk, has canceled a $21 million grant for voter turnout in India, sparking BJP accusations of foreign interference and opposition-led external influence in electoral processes. The resulting controversy underscores concerns over foreign involvement in India’s democracy and the importance of examining funding sources associated with electoral management initiatives.
On Sunday, the US Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), under the leadership of Elon Musk, announced the cancellation of a $21 million grant intended for the Consortium for Elections and Political Process Strengthening (CEPPS) aimed at enhancing voter turnout in India. This move sparked reactions from BJP leaders Amit Malviya and Rajeev Chandrasekhar, who have accused the Opposition Congress party of facilitating what they label as “external interference” in India’s electoral process.
According to a post from DOGE, funded by US taxpayer dollars, the grant included $22 million for political initiatives in Moldova alongside the $21 million earmarked for India, although no specific Indian entities to receive this funding were identified. Notably, the websites for CEPPS and the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), which supports CEPPS, were reportedly down at the time of the announcement.
Since President Trump’s return to office, DOGE, led by Musk, has actively reduced grants previously issued by former administrations and has terminated various USAID programs. In reaction to DOGE’s post, Amit Malviya pointed out on X that a grant of $21 million for voter turnout indicates significant foreign influence in the electoral arena, questioning who stands to benefit from such funding. Likewise, Rajeev Chandrasekhar labeled the situation as indicative of external interference, calling for thorough investigations into the financial trails associated with USAID funding in India.
The International Foundation for Electoral Systems (IFES), a partner of CEPPS, describes CEPPS as a nonprofit coalition that combines the expertise of leading international organizations to assist in electoral processes globally. Established in 1995, CEPPS collaborates closely with USAID and other entities to deliver impactful democracy programming around the world. It is important to note that CEPPS has been involved with the Election Commission of India (ECI) since a memorandum of understanding was signed in 2012, aiming to share expertise and enhance democratic management practices.
Amit Malviya further criticized the Congress for allegedly allowing foreign influence over the ECI’s functions, referring back to the MoU signed by former Chief Election Commissioner SY Quraishi. In response to these allegations, Quraishi defended the MoU, clarifying that it explicitly stated no financial obligations were imposed on either side, asserting that claims regarding financial ties are unfounded and misleading. The Election Commission of India did not provide a comment on this unfolding situation when approached.
The cancellation of the $21 million grant by DOGE aimed at increasing voter turnout in India has drawn sharp criticism from the BJP, which accuses the Congress party of facilitating external interference. The controversy highlights the ongoing debate around foreign involvement in India’s electoral processes and the importance of transparency in funding agencies. Notably, the insights shared by past officials emphasize the necessity of maintaining democratic integrity against external influences.
Original Source: indianexpress.com