MEA seeks report on US funds

The ministry of external affairs (MEA) on Thursday sought details about a reported US announcement to provide nearly US$ 5 lakh to NGOs to promote religious freedom in India. The MEA asserted that any such activity in the country by anybody has to follow the rules of the land.

Sources made it clear that any monetary grants, which do not meet the rules can be refused.

Details are being sought from the Indian Embassy in Washington on the reported US move. At a time when India and the US are drawing closer in a geostrategic context, such a move by the US could throw a spanner in the works.

According to news agency reports, the US has announced a grant of nearly $5 lakh for an NGO to develop early warning systems for “reducing religiouslymotivated violence and discrimination” in India.

“We have seen reports and have sought more details,” MEA spokesperson Raveesh Kumar said.

According to reports, the United States has said it wants to “increase societal tolerance” and reduce “religiouslymotivated violence” and discrimination in India, with the state department announcing the grant for organisations which can come up with ideas and projects to promote religious freedom.

“The goal of the programme is to increase societal tolerance and improve civilian security to reduce religiouslymotivated violence and discrimination,” a State Department spokesperson told news agency PTI in Washington.