New Delhi, Feb 21 : The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) alleged on Thursday, February 20, 2025, that NGOs linked to the Congress party are attempting to interfere in India’s elections. The claim is based on a statement by former U.S. President Donald Trump, who alleged that the Biden administration provided $21 million (approximately ₹174 crore) to boost voter turnout in India.
Allegations Against Rahul Gandhi for Seeking Foreign Support
Senior BJP leader and former Union Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad, during a press conference, accused Rahul Gandhi of ridiculing India’s democracy on international platforms and seeking assistance from foreign democratic entities.
He stated: “This is an embarrassment for Congress. Rahul Gandhi keeps losing elections and is now attempting to win through foreign support. This is a serious issue of external interference in India’s democracy.”
Foreign Funding and Alleged Electoral Influence
Ravi Shankar Prasad further alleged that the U.S. President confirmed the allocation of $21 million (₹174 crore) to influence India’s elections.
He remarked: “If people do not vote for Congress, they resort to foreign funds to manipulate Indian elections and undermine democracy. We strongly oppose this foreign involvement.”
BJP’s Claim: A Plan to Influence the 2024 Elections
BJP’s IT cell head Amit Malviya stated on social media that a well-organized plan was devised to sway the 2024 general elections.
Citing data, he claimed:
– During the UPA government (2004-2013), the Indian government received $204.28 million, while NGOs received $2,114.96 million in foreign funding.
– Under the NDA government (2014-2024), government funding dropped to just $1.51 million, while NGOs received $2,579.73 million.
– In 2022, funding under ‘Democracy, Human Rights, and Governance’ increased significantly, coinciding with Rahul Gandhi’s Bharat Jodo Yatra.
– After 2015, USAID stopped funding the Indian government but continued supporting NGOs.
BJP’s Position: Threat to Indian Democracy
BJP strongly criticized Congress and Rahul Gandhi, alleging that they are trying to alter election outcomes with external support.
“This is a direct threat to India’s democratic sovereignty. Congress must clarify whether it sought assistance from foreign governments or agencies,” BJP leaders said.
Awaiting Congress’ Response
Congress has yet to issue an official statement on these allegations. If proven, this issue could lead to significant political controversy in India.
