In a landmark policy shift, the Elon Musk-led US Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) has revoked $21 million in USAID funding aimed at boosting voter turnout in India. This announcement, made on Sunday (India time), is part of a sweeping rollback of USAID-backed projects worldwide, sparking discussions on international funding in domestic electoral processes.
Global Funding Cuts: A Major Overhaul
The Indian project was one among several global initiatives supported by the Consortium for Elections and Political Process Strengthening (CEPPS), an organization funded by USAID to promote electoral reforms. DOGE’s decision has led to the cancellation of multiple projects, including:
- Bangladesh: $29 million for “strengthening the political landscape”
- Nepal: $20 million for “fiscal federalism” and $19 million for “biodiversity conservation”
- Moldova: $22 million for “inclusive and participatory political processes”
- Mozambique: $10 million for a voluntary medical circumcision program
- Asia: $47 million for “improving learning outcomes”
- Serbia: $14 million for “enhancing public procurement”
- Cambodia: Over $12 million for youth development and independent media programs
In total, CEPPS funding worth $486 million has been scrapped, reflecting a significant shift in US foreign aid priorities.
Political Reactions: BJP Labels It ‘External Interference’
Reacting strongly to the move, BJP leader Amit Malviya accused the now-cancelled voter turnout initiative in India of being an “external interference in India’s electoral process.” He further questioned the underlying motivations of such foreign-funded programs, emphasizing that they did not serve the interests of the ruling party.
Malviya also linked the funding to George Soros’ Open Society Foundations, alleging that USAID-backed projects have long played a role in influencing Indian institutions. He cited a 2012 agreement between India’s Election Commission and the International Foundation for Electoral Systems, a CEPPS partner, as evidence of foreign involvement in India’s democratic framework.
Trump Administration’s Crackdown on USAID
The funding cut aligns with former President Donald Trump’s longstanding skepticism toward USAID. Trump, who appointed Musk to head DOGE last month, has called for shutting down the agency, citing allegations of financial mismanagement and fraudulent expenditures.
“USAID is driving the radical left crazy, and there is nothing they can do about it because the way in which the money has been spent, so much of it fraudulently, is totally unexplainable. The corruption is at levels rarely seen before. Close it down,” Trump stated in a post on X.
Elon Musk and Narendra Modi Discuss Strategic Collaboration
During Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s recent US visit, he met with Elon Musk to discuss advancements in artificial intelligence, space exploration, and sustainable development. Their discussions, attended by Musk’s children, also covered governance innovations and emerging technologies, reinforcing India’s focus on strengthening its technological partnerships with the US.
Broader Implications of DOGE’s Spending Cuts
The Department of Government Efficiency, established to curb unnecessary government spending, has undertaken major financial restructuring efforts. Supporters argue that these reforms prevent wasteful expenditures, while critics warn that such cuts may diminish US influence in global electoral and governance initiatives.
As international stakeholders weigh in on this policy shift, the cancellation of these funds raises critical questions about the future of US-backed electoral development programs and their role in shaping global democratic processes.
Developments in Bangladesh
The US government’s decision to withdraw $29 million meant for “strengthening the political landscape in Bangladesh” has sparked debates about potential American influence in the country’s recent political shifts. This move came shortly after President Trump was questioned about allegations of US interference in Bangladesh’s leadership change during a joint press conference with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Trump dismissed these claims, stating:
“The US had no role in this. This is something Bangladesh has been dealing with for a long time. I will leave it to their leadership.”
Despite this, speculations persist. The removal of former Bangladeshi Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and the rise of Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus as the interim leader have led many to question whether the US played a role in the transition.
With the departure of Hasina, India and Bangladesh have faced growing diplomatic tensions. New Delhi has expressed concerns over increased attacks on religious minorities under the new administration, adding to regional instability.
