The Congress Party launched a fresh attack on the BJP on Saturday following former US President Donald Trump’s latest claim that $21 million was sent to Prime Minister Narendra Modi in India to boost voter turnout.

Trump, while questioning US foreign aid, stated:

"USD 21 million going to my friend Prime Minister Modi in India for voter turnout. We are giving $21 million for voter turnout in India, what about us? I want voter turnout too, Governor… $29 million to strengthen the political landscape in Bangladesh went to a firm that nobody ever heard of."

His remarks have sparked a fresh controversy, with opposition leaders demanding clarity on the alleged funding.

Congress Demands Clarity on US Funding Claims

Congress leader Pawan Khera strongly criticized the BJP, questioning the silence over the issue. He said:

"Initially, the US claimed money was coming in to influence our elections. The BJP then added spice to it, saying it was based on an MoU signed in 2012. The then Chief Election Commissioner refuted these claims. Later, reports surfaced that the money actually went to Bangladesh. Now, Trump says the money went to 'our friend' PM Modi. Suddenly, there’s pin-drop silence. We demand a white paper on where the $21 million went."

Khera referenced a Washington Post report, which he said contradicted Trump’s claims by stating that no such funds were sent to India. He further questioned:

"Who is telling the truth? Between 2001 and 2024, a total of $2.1 billion has entered India through foreign funding. 40% of it came under Modi’s government, and one-fourth of the total funds have come in since 2021, averaging $165 million per year. We want to know who received this money and why."

He also raised questions about funding in 2012, when Modi was allegedly conspiring against L.K. Advani within the BJP and when India Against Corruption (IAC), led by Anna Hazare, was active.

"The Prime Minister owes a response to the nation. Did the BJP take money from USAID or not?"

Trump Doubles Down on "Kickback Scheme" Allegations

This marks the third time Trump has raised the $21 million controversy. On Friday, he went further, calling the funding a “kickback scheme”, and questioned:

"USD 21 million for voter turnout in India? Why are we caring about India’s turnout? We have enough problems. I would say in many of these cases, whenever nobody knows what’s going on, it usually means there’s a kickback involved."

Previously, Trump had hinted at foreign interference in India’s elections, comparing it to allegations of Russian interference in US elections.

"They made a huge deal when Russia spent about $2,000 on internet ads in the US. But $21 million for voter turnout in India? Were they trying to get someone else elected? We need to talk to the Indian government about this."

India’s Response: MEA Says Authorities Are Investigating

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) responded to Trump’s remarks, with spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal stating:

"Relevant departments and authorities are looking into the information shared by the US administration regarding certain activities and funding. These reports are deeply troubling."

While India has not confirmed or denied receiving such funds, the government’s response indicates that the issue is being taken seriously.

Trump’s allegations have triggered a political storm in India, with the opposition demanding transparency and the government investigating the claims. Whether this controversy leads to a major revelation or fades away as political rhetoric remains to be seen.