George Soros-backed Open Society Foundations, linked entities raided by ED

The Enforcement Directorate conducted searches at the offices of the Open Society Foundations (OSF), which is backed by US billionaire George Soros, along with several associated entities in Bengaluru, news agencies reported on March 18. This action is part of an investigation into alleged violations of foreign exchange regulations, according to official sources.

The searches are being carried out under the Foreign Exchange Management Act (FEMA) and involve the OSF along with various international human rights organisations.

The investigation focuses on claims that the OSF sourced foreign direct investment (FDI) and that certain beneficiaries misused these funds in ways that contravene FEMA guidelines.


At this time, OSF has not responded to requests for comments regarding the Enforcement Directorate's actions. Soros, a Hungarian-American political activist, has faced accusations from the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) of undermining India's interests.

His comments during the Adani-Hindenburg controversy have also attracted criticism from the party. The OSF has been operational in India since 1999.