Soros-backed groups in India face raids over
India Raids Soros-Linked Groups
India’s Enforcement Directorate (ED) raided eight Bengaluru locations,
including offices of George Soros’ Open Society Foundations (OSF) and the Soros Economic Development Fund (SEDF),
over alleged Foreign Exchange Management Act (FEMA) violations.
Investigation Scope
Authorities claim the entities “channeled foreign funding into Indian NGOs and companies through unlawful means,”
bypassing home ministry approval requirements since 2016.
Funding allegedly moved via service fees and Indian subsidiaries without verified services.
Entities Under Scrutiny
NGOs and M/s Aspada Investments Pvt Ltd, tied to SEDF’s Indian operations, are under investigation.
Transfers of ₹2.7 crore and ₹2.9 crore to companies are suspected to be disguised donations rather than legitimate fees.
Legal and Political Context
The raids highlight India’s increased scrutiny of foreign-funded NGOs.
ED is assessing potential FEMA violations, while OSF and SEDF have not commented.
Opposition and civil society groups may raise concerns over enforcement transparency and political motives.
