Congress Challenges Trump’s Claims on USAID Funding to India
NEW DELHI: In a recent statement, the Congress party has dismissed U.S. President Donald Trump’s assertions regarding the 2012 USAID funds allocated to India as “nonsensical.” AICC spokesperson Jairam Ramesh has called for the Modi government to release a white paper detailing the agency’s financial support to India over the decades.
Ramesh emphasized that USAID, established on November 3, 1961, has played a significant role in various sectors in India. He stated, “Claims being made by the U.S. President are typically nonsensical to say the least. Even so, the Government of India should bring out a white paper at the earliest detailing USAID’s support to both governmental and non-governmental institutions in India over the decades.”
Context of USAID Funding
The Congress party has pointed out that the USAID funds in 2012 aimed at increasing voter turnout in India would have primarily benefited the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), which was then in opposition. They argue that the funds could not have been intended to benefit Congress, as the party was in power at that time and did not require additional support to increase voter engagement.
In a strategic move, Congress has also highlighted the past association of BJP leader and former Union minister Smriti Irani with USAID, showcasing her role as a “goodwill ambassador” for the agency. This connection raises questions about the motivations behind the funding and its actual beneficiaries.
Conclusion
The ongoing debate surrounding USAID funding underscores the complex interplay of politics and international aid in India. As the Congress party pushes for transparency, the Modi government faces increasing pressure to clarify the nature and impact of foreign aid in the country.
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