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A political dispute has emerged in India after former US President Donald Trump’s Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) cut $21 million aid to India. Trump claimed the money was meant to “boost voter turnout” in India, leading to a clash between India’s two main political parties, BJP and Congress.
The BJP accused the US of trying to influence Indian elections, while Congress called Trump’s remarks “nonsensical.” The controversy also focused on Veena Reddy, the former director of the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) in India. The BJP questioned her involvement, even though the US government has not clarified who in India received the aid.
Who is Veena Reddy?
Veena Reddy is an experienced US diplomat. She has served in several countries, including India, and is currently the USAID Mission Director in Cambodia. Before joining USAID, she was a corporate lawyer.
The $21 Million Aid Issue
The controversy began when Trump criticized the $21 million grant, thinking it was for India. He suggested the Biden administration was trying to influence Indian elections. However, the US has not clarified if the money was for India or another country.
Reports later confirmed the money was actually meant for Bangladesh, not India. So far, $13.4 million of the grant has been sent to Bangladesh.
Key Points:
- US cut a $21 million grant, claiming it was for “voter turnout” in India.
- BJP accuses the US of election interference; Congress disagrees.
- Veena Reddy, a former USAID official, is involved in the controversy.
- The grant was actually for Bangladesh, not India.
- $13.4 million of the aid has already been given to Bangladesh.
