Elon Musk's DOGE Cancels ₹22 Million Voter Turnout Project in India, Sparks Election Interference Debate

In a move that has ignited political controversy, Elon Musk-led Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) has cancelled a ₹22 million ($21 million) project intended to boost voter turnout in India. Announced on February 15, 2025, the decision is part of a broader effort to eliminate federal spending on international political projects, including a $29 million initiative in Bangladesh.

DOGE, which was established under Musk’s leadership to reduce government waste, cited concerns over excessive federal spending as the reason for terminating these projects. However, the cancellation has raised eyebrows in India, with the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) accusing it of potential foreign interference in domestic elections.

Political Reactions in India

BJP’s media head, Amit Malviya, reacted sharply, questioning the intent behind the funding. Taking to X (formerly Twitter), he wrote:

"₹22M for voter turnout? This is definitely external interference in India’s electoral process. Who gains from this? Not the ruling party for sure!"

The controversy deepened as DOGE disclosed additional details about global election-related funding, revealing that $486 million had been allocated to the ‘Consortium for Elections and Political Process Strengthening’, including $22 million for Moldova and $21 million for India. The revelation has fueled debates over U.S. involvement in foreign elections and whether such initiatives undermine national sovereignty.

Musk’s Anti-Government Spending Stance

Musk’s approach to federal spending has been a subject of intense scrutiny. He has been vocal about his disapproval of U.S. government agencies like USAID, previously calling it a “criminal organization” and advocating for its dismantling. Under his leadership, DOGE has aggressively cut international funding, terminated consulting contracts, and reduced government expenditures across various sectors.

While some argue that these cuts reflect responsible governance and taxpayer savings, others warn that they could disrupt international relations and democratic processes in partner nations. Critics point out that funding election processes in developing democracies has long been a U.S. foreign policy tool, and abruptly pulling out could weaken democratic institutions in these countries.

Impact on India’s Electoral Landscape

The cancellation of this project raises key questions:

• Was this funding part of a legitimate democracy-support initiative, or an attempt at influencing Indian elections?
• Would the funds have impacted voter behavior, and if so, in whose favor?
• Does India's electoral system need external funding for voter turnout initiatives?

India has a robust electoral process, managed by the Election Commission of India (ECI), which ensures free and fair elections. However, opposition parties have often raised concerns over foreign influence in Indian politics, making this cancellation a politically charged issue.

As the 2025 Indian elections approach, the debate over foreign intervention, election integrity, and government accountability is expected to gain further traction, shaping political narratives in the months to come.