Foreign Minister S. Jaishankar stated on Saturday that the government is examining statements made by the Trump administration regarding potential foreign interference in Indian elections. He assured, 'The facts will surface.'
At the Delhi University Literature Festival, Jaishankar discussed concerns following U.S. President Donald Trump's assertion that the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) allocated $21 million to enhance voter turnout in India. Trump questioned whether this funding was intended 'to help elect someone else.'
'Granted Permission to Work in Good Faith'
Responding to a query from Sanjeev Sanyal, a member of the Prime Minister's Economic Advisory Council, and event's host, Jaishankar noted that USAID was permitted to operate in India under 'good faith'. However, he also remarked that indications from the U.S. suggest that 'some activities are being conducted with malintent.'
'Facts Will Emerge Soon'
Jaishankar commented, 'I believe that some members of the Trump administration have released some information, which is undoubtedly cause for concern. It suggests that certain activities are being conducted with a specific agenda to promote a certain narrative or ideology.'
He added that the government is actively investigating this issue. 'As a government, we are scrutinizing this, as it's imperative for such entities to report their activities. I believe the facts will soon emerge.'
Trump's Allegations
On February 20th, during a Miami event, Donald Trump questioned the $21 million USAID funding, expressing doubt about whether it was meant 'to help elect someone else.'
India responded strongly on Friday, calling the matter 'extremely concerning'. Foreign Ministry spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal stated, 'Relevant departments and agencies are investigating this.'
