The DOGE has cut $21 million previously allocated for voter turnout in India amid allegations of corruption involving USAID. The funding was part of a larger budget of $3.7 billion for democratic initiatives. The Biden administration faces scrutiny, with Vice President Vance highlighting risks to democratic values. Former Election Commissioner Quraishi denies financial ties to the funding, while connections to controversial NGOs prompt calls for investigation.
The US Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) has recently audited multiple governmental agencies and announced reductions of wasteful expenditures, including cuts from the Consortium for Elections and Political Process Strengthening (CEPPS). Among these cuts, $21 million earmarked for increasing voter turnout in India was highlighted.
Sources indicate that since 2008, USAID provided CEPPS with approximately $3.7 billion to support democratic initiatives worldwide. This organization collaborates with various NGOs to promote democratic institutions, but this raised concerns over potential interference in foreign electoral processes.
Amid scrutiny of the Biden administration regarding allegations of corruption within USAID, Vice President JD Vance remarked on growing threats to democratic values both abroad and domestically. The context of ample funding funneled through NGOs raises questions about possible regime change operations, particularly in relation to India’s upcoming elections.
Financial examinations reveal substantial backing from entities like the International Foundation for Electoral Systems (IFES), which has deep ties with the NGO sector in India. Although the collaboration intends to enhance voter engagement, suspicions about ulterior motives linger, especially considering allegations surrounding connections with influential figures.
Former Election Commissioner S.Y. Quraishi refuted claims surrounding an MoU with IFES that purportedly involved financial commitments, insisting that no funding was promised. Contrastingly, associations with organizations that have questionable maps of India and former CIA affiliations intensify doubts about democracy promotion in the region.
In light of the findings, scrutiny is warranted regarding the relationship between these international NGOs and their Indian counterparts. The request for a detailed investigation into such connections has been made to clarify motivations and funding paths that could potentially affect Indian governance and electoral integrity.
The recent developments regarding USAID’s funding for voter turnout initiatives in India underscore a complex intersection of international aid and domestic political dynamics. With significant amounts being funneled through various NGOs, concerns about possible interference in Indian elections are heightened. Additionally, assertions about the integrity of these operations and the affiliations of the involved NGOs necessitate thorough investigation.
Original Source: www.ndtv.com
