New Delhi: India’s External Affairs Minister, S. Jaishankar, has raised serious concerns over allegations that millions of dollars were funneled into India from the United States with the intent to influence Indian elections. The controversy erupted following claims by former US President Donald Trump, who first alleged that $21 million was allocated under the guise of "voter turnout" initiatives in India.

Addressing the issue at the Delhi University Literature Festival, Jaishankar underscored the hidden dangers of foreign influence in shaping public opinion.

"Your security can be threatened without you even leaving your house because your thoughts, influences, narratives, morale, and sense of right and wrong are all shaped by what you consume on your phone, the news you read, and the images you see," Jaishankar stated, emphasizing the subtle but powerful impact of external interference.

Allegations & Growing Concerns

Jaishankar described the revelations from the Trump administration as "concerning," signaling that these claims point toward a deliberate attempt to manipulate narratives within India.

Key Highlights from Jaishankar’s Statement:

• The Trump administration had reportedly disclosed information about the alleged funding.
• The $21 million in question was allegedly earmarked for "voter turnout" initiatives.
• The US Agency for International Development (USAID) has historically operated in India, but these allegations suggest a breach of trust.
• The Indian government is actively investigating the matter, ensuring accountability from organizations receiving such funds.

"It would suggest that there are activities with a certain objective—to push a narrative or a viewpoint. As a government, we are looking into it because such organisations have an obligation to report. And my sense is, the facts will come out," Jaishankar affirmed.

Government & BJP Demand Investigation

The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has also called for a full-fledged inquiry, going a step further by alleging that these funds may have been used to cultivate “deep state assets” within India.

Trump further fueled the controversy, claiming that the $21 million was part of a “kickback scheme”, adding another layer of suspicion to the issue.

Given the serious implications of these allegations, Indian investigative agencies have launched preliminary inquiries to trace the flow of funds and uncover any irregularities.

Enforcement Directorate (ED) Steps In

Reports indicate that the Enforcement Directorate (ED) is actively scrutinizing:

Non-profit organizations
Social workers and activists
Media companies
Business entities

The primary objective is to identify potential conduits for the funds and determine whether there were any violations of anti-money laundering laws.

Key Focus Areas of the Investigation:

Was there an organized attempt to manipulate India’s electoral process?
Were any foreign entities involved in covertly influencing voters?
Did the funds violate Indian financial regulations?

India Takes Allegations of Election Interference Seriously

This inquiry underscores India’s firm stance against foreign meddling in domestic affairs. Given the sensitivity of election-related matters, authorities are leaving no stone unturned in tracing the origins and impact of the alleged funds.

With the External Affairs Ministry, BJP, and central investigative agencies on high alert, the coming weeks may reveal critical details about whether foreign funds played a role in influencing India's democratic processes.

What’s Next?

The Enforcement Directorate (ED) will intensify its probe into organizations linked to the alleged funding.
The Indian government may seek formal clarification from US authorities regarding the disclosure.
Findings from the preliminary investigation could lead to stricter regulations on foreign funding in India.

As the investigation unfolds, all eyes will be on the Indian government’s response and any new revelations that emerge from this high-stakes inquiry.