New Delhi: The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Monday called on the United States to clarify its stance on billionaire investor George Soros’ alleged efforts to destabilize the Modi government. The demand follows allegations that the Organised Crime and Corruption Reporting Project (OCCRP), partially funded by Soros, has been used to malign India’s image.
The Allegations and Media Report
BJP spokesperson Sudhanshu Trivedi highlighted a report published by the French investigative media outlet Mediapart, which claims OCCRP receives significant funding from the U.S. State Department and Soros’ organizations. Trivedi urged the U.S. government to explicitly state whether it supports Soros’ purported agenda or stands against such interference.
“It is incumbent on their part to clarify whether they are standing with Soros’ stance of destabilizing the Modi government or not,” Trivedi asserted during a press conference at BJP headquarters.
The BJP has accused the OCCRP of being a tool in the so-called “deep state” agenda, alleging collusion with opposition leader Rahul Gandhi to defame India. The ruling party claimed that Gandhi relied on OCCRP’s reports to attack the Adani Group and link it to the government.
Funding and Alleged Bias
In a series of posts on X (formerly Twitter), the BJP stated, “A French investigative journalist has revealed that the U.S. government controls the media organization OCCRP, dictating its narratives. Fifty percent of OCCRP’s funding comes directly from the U.S. State Department, making it a tool for advancing deep state agendas.”
The party also questioned the link between OCCRP and India’s opposition, implying coordinated efforts to harm India’s global standing.
U.S. Embassy’s Response
A spokesperson for the U.S. embassy in India described the BJP’s allegations as “disappointing” and reiterated the U.S.’s commitment to media freedom worldwide.
“The U.S. government works with independent organizations to support professional development and capacity-building training for journalists. This programming does not influence the editorial decisions or direction of these organizations,” the official stated.
OCCRP: A Media Platform Under Scrutiny
OCCRP, based in Amsterdam, focuses on investigative journalism targeting crime and corruption. While the platform emphasizes its independence, BJP leaders have cast doubt on its objectivity due to its funding sources.
Trivedi noted, “It was very clear from the report that the OCCRP project was funded partially by the U.S. State Department and by Soros also.” He further urged the U.S. to withdraw support from such organizations if they are indeed neutral.
Russian Claims of Interference
Adding another layer to the controversy, Trivedi referred to earlier allegations from Russia about U.S. interference in India’s domestic affairs during the 2024 Lok Sabha elections. These claims were dismissed by Washington but have resurfaced amidst the OCCRP debate.
BJP’s Demand for Transparency
The BJP’s stance reflects growing concerns about external influences on India’s internal matters. Trivedi said, “Now they (U.S.) should make it clear whether they are involved in the internal matters or not. If not, they should withdraw their support from these organizations (OCCRP).”
Conclusion
The controversy underscores the complex interplay of international funding, media narratives, and domestic politics. While the BJP seeks clarity from the U.S., the debate raises broader questions about media independence and the role of foreign funding in shaping global discourse.
FAQs
1. What is OCCRP?
The Organised Crime and Corruption Reporting Project (OCCRP) is an investigative journalism platform focusing on crime and corruption worldwide, headquartered in Amsterdam.
2. Why is George Soros mentioned in this context?
George Soros, through his Open Society Foundations, is alleged to fund organizations like OCCRP, which the BJP claims are being used to destabilize the Modi government.
3. What is the BJP’s main demand?
The BJP wants the U.S. government to clarify whether it endorses Soros’ alleged agenda and to cease support for organizations purportedly interfering in India’s internal affairs.
4. What was the U.S. embassy’s response?
The U.S. embassy denied influencing OCCRP’s editorial decisions and emphasized its support for global media freedom.
5. How has Russia been linked to this issue?
Earlier in 2024, Russia accused the U.S. of interfering in India’s elections, a claim dismissed by Washington but now referenced by the BJP amidst the OCCRP controversy.
No comments:
Post a Comment