New Delhi: Congress has launched a sharp critique against the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), questioning the silence of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar over reported insults directed at India by former U.S. President Donald Trump and tech magnate Elon Musk. This comes amid rising concerns over USAID funding.

According to a statement by Kashmir Media Service, Congress General Secretary Jairam Ramesh condemned the BJP as a “procession of liars and illiterates.” He refuted claims about a $21 million USAID funding intended for “voter turnout” in India, clarifying that the funds were actually designated for Bangladesh.

The controversy stems from an announcement by the Trump administration’s Department of Global Engagement (DOGE) on February 16, asserting that USAID had canceled the $21 million allocation for “voting in India,” a claim that Congress now deems fabricated.

Ramesh explained that the issue revolves around two USAID grants routed through the Washington-based Consortium for Elections and Political Process Strengthening (CEPPS). He noted that while USAID earmarked $22 million for Moldova, the $21 million said to be for India was in fact meant for Bangladesh.

He further questioned the BJP’s motives, asking why the party circulated what he labeled as “fake news” concerning India’s democracy. Ramesh also criticized the BJP for what he termed as “anti-national work” by propagating misinformation from America.

The Congress leader also implied a potential compromise of the country’s self-respect, suggesting it could be linked to seeking clemency for business tycoon Adani.