India’s ED Raids Soros-Linked NGOs Over Alleged Foreign Exchange Violations

India’s Enforcement Directorate (ED) has launched a sweeping investigation into George Soros’ Open Society Foundations (OSF) and its subsidiary, the Soros Economic Development Fund (SEDF), conducting raids at eight locations across the country. The crackdown stems from allegations of significant violations of the Foreign Exchange Management Act (FEMA).

Officials accuse the organizations of using complex financial structures to channel foreign funds into India, bypassing regulations. According to sources, over $3 billion may have been routed into Indian NGOs under the guise of consultancy fees and foreign direct investments—despite long-standing restrictions from India’s Ministry of Home Affairs since 2016.

“They allegedly used foreign direct investment as a cover,” one official told local media, suggesting a deliberate effort to evade scrutiny and influence domestic affairs through indirect funding.

The raids have triggered debate over foreign influence in India’s non-profit sector, raising questions about transparency and the role of international philanthropy in domestic governance. The ED is expected to follow up with formal notices and a broader audit of NGO funding networks.

The investigation is ongoing, and OSF has yet to release an official statement.