S Jaishankar on USAID Row: "Allowed Here in Good Faith," Calls for Investigation

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar has expressed concerns over reports that the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) allegedly allocated $21 million to India to influence voter turnout. His remarks come amid growing political scrutiny over foreign funding in India's electoral process.

Speaking at the Delhi University Literature Festival, Jaishankar suggested that such financial flows could be part of a broader effort to shape narratives and influence public perception.

"Your security can be threatened without you leaving your house because the thought processes, the influences, the narratives, your morale, your sense of what is right and wrong are all influenced by your phone, what you read every day, the pictures you see," he stated.

Trump Administration Alleges Influence Operations

The controversy erupted after U.S. President Donald Trump publicly questioned the allocation of funds, claiming the $21 million grant—earmarked for "voter turnout in India"—was a misuse of taxpayer money.

Trump’s administration has since released a list of discontinued U.S. government-funded programs, including this initiative. The list was posted by the U.S. Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE).

Jaishankar acknowledged the development, stating, "Some information has been put out there by the Trump administration, and obviously, that is concerning. It suggests activities designed to push a narrative or viewpoint."

"USAID Was Allowed Here in Good Faith"

Jaishankar emphasized that USAID has historically operated in India under mutually agreed terms. However, he indicated that the latest revelations warranted further scrutiny.

"It’s not about whether one deals with USAID or not. USAID was allowed here in good faith, to do good faith activities. Now, suggestions are being made from America that some of these activities were in bad faith. So, it surely warrants a look," he said.

The minister added that if evidence of wrongdoing emerges, the country should be made aware of those responsible for such activities.

BJP Calls for Investigation

Jaishankar’s comments come on the same day that the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) demanded an investigation into the alleged funding and possible "kickbacks." The party claimed the money was used to sustain "deep state assets" within India.

President Trump echoed these concerns, labeling the funding a "kickback scheme."

India’s Enforcement Directorate (ED) and other security agencies have begun preliminary investigations to identify Indian entities and individuals who may have acted as conduits for receiving USAID’s now-scrapped funds. According to sources, the agencies are examining:

• Non-profit organizations
• Social workers
• Media firms
• Business entities

The investigation focuses on possible violations of anti-money laundering laws and any transnational conspiracy to interfere in India's democratic process.

What Happens Next?

• Indian authorities are expected to release findings from their preliminary probe in the coming weeks.
• U.S.-India diplomatic channels may be activated to discuss the allegations.
• Political reactions within India are likely to intensify as more details emerge.

As the situation unfolds, the Indian government is expected to take a firm stance on ensuring electoral integrity while addressing concerns over foreign influence in democratic processes.