India assures 'subsequent action' after US accusation of Indian's involvement in alleged plot to kill Pannun
New York, November 30: The U.S. Justice Department revealed a plot orchestrated by an Indian government official to assassinate a Sikh separatist, a U.S. citizen, on American soil. Nikhil Gupta, alleged to have collaborated with this official, faces charges related to the attempted murder.
Gupta, arrested by Czech authorities in June, awaits extradition. Although the targeted individual's identity wasn't disclosed, he's recognised as Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, a U.S.-Canada dual citizen and vocal advocate for Sikh autonomy. Manhattan's federal prosecutor Damian Williams highlighted the plot's India-to-New York scheme, condemning the assassination attempt against a U.S. citizen advocating for Sikh sovereignty.
The indictment identifies the Indian official as a "Senior Field Officer," overseeing "Security Management" and "Intelligence," who orchestrated the plot from India.
Recent revelations follow a Biden administration warning to India, asserting U.S. interference against such threats and urging accountability. President Biden, CIA Director Burns, and other officials raised concerns during the G20 summit, emphasising potential implications for bilateral relations if such threats persisted. National Security Adviser Sullivan and Secretary of State Blinken engaged with India's foreign minister on this issue. Additionally, Director of National Intelligence Avril Haines traveled to India to assist in an internal investigation.
Arindam Bagchi, the spokesperson for India's Ministry of External Affairs, acknowledged the gravity of the allegations and the ongoing inquiry. He stated, "We are treating these allegations seriously. During discussions with the US on security cooperation, they shared inputs on the link between organised crime, gun trafficking, terrorists, and others."
The Indian government has responded by establishing a dedicated Enquiry Committee to thoroughly investigate the issue, signaling a commitment to addressing potential impacts on both international relations and internal security.
"Effective November 18, 2023, the Government of India has set up a high-level Enquiry Committee to comprehensively investigate all relevant aspects of this matter. Follow-up actions will be taken based on the committee's findings," Bagchi said.
The escalating issue presents a sensitive challenge for both India and the Biden administration, attempting to strengthen ties amid growing concerns about China's burgeoning influence, seen as a common threat to both democratic nations.
While India's Washington embassy and foreign ministry didn't immediately respond to requests for comment, India's foreign ministry assured a formal investigation into the concerns raised by the United States. Emphasising the seriousness of these inputs on national security, India pledged to undertake essential actions based on the panel's findings established on November 18.
Adrienne Watson, White House National Security Council spokesperson, acknowledged the defendant's credible indication of direction from an Indian government official. The U.S. took this information seriously, engaging in direct conversations with India's highest levels to express their concerns.
India assured its commitment to a thorough investigation, ensuring accountability based on the investigation's outcomes, according to Watson, who highlighted ongoing expectations of accountability from India. This issue had been on the radar since April, with the U.S. articulating concerns to Modi's government. Additionally, the matter was addressed during the November 10 discussions when Secretary Blinken and Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin met their Indian counterparts for the 2 2 dialogue.
The recent disclosure follows Canada's assertion two months ago of "credible" links between Indian agents and the June murder of Sikh separatist leader Hardeep Singh Nijjar in a Vancouver suburb—an accusation India vehemently rejected.
U.S. prosecutors revealed that an Indian official recruited Nikhil Gupta in May 2023 to orchestrate an assassination. Gupta, previously involved in trafficking drugs and weapons, sought a hitman through an undercover DEA agent, not realising their identity.
After the assassination of Hardeep Singh Nijjar, Gupta messaged the undercover agent, stating Nijjar was also a target, indicating there were more individuals on the list. Gupta faces charges of murder-for-hire and conspiracy, potentially facing a maximum sentence of 20 years upon conviction.
India has expressed concern over Sikh separatist groups outside the country, such as in Canada and the United States, advocating for Khalistan—an independent Sikh state. Despite being quashed in the 1990s, these groups are still viewed as a security threat by India.
The movement resurfaces concerns due to past events like the 1985 Air India Boeing 747 bombing, attributed to Sikh militants, resulting in the deaths of all 329 passengers and crew.
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- With inputs from agencies
