Foiled plot against US-based Sikh separatist Gurpatwant Singh Pannu leads to charges against Indian government employee
Gurpatwant Pannu News: The US Department of Justice has issued charges against Indian national Nikhil Gupta, accusing him of being part of a conspiracy to murder US-based Sikh separatist Gurpatwant Singh Pannu. The alleged "murder-for-hire" plot has triggered diplomatic discussions between the two nations.
In a statement, the US Attorney's Office detailed the charges against Nikhil Gupta, identified as an Indian government employee. If convicted, Gupta could face a maximum sentence of 20 years. The accusations involve a foiled attempt to kill dual citizen Gurpatwant Singh Pannu, a prominent Sikh separatist with citizenship in both the United States and Canada.
The Indian foreign ministry, in response to the charges, confirmed that it is examining the inputs from the United States. Emphasizing the seriousness of such inputs affecting national security, the ministry stated that a high-level Enquiry Committee was constituted on November 18 to investigate the matter. India pledges to take necessary follow-up actions based on the committee's findings.
This development follows the recent diplomatic exchange between the US and Canada, where Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau raised concerns about the "potential" involvement of Indian agents in the killing of Khalistan Tiger Force chief Hardeep Singh Nijjar. The US has treated the reported plot against Gurpatwant Singh Pannu with utmost seriousness, engaging in discussions with the Indian government at senior levels.
On November 20, the National Investigation Agency (NIA) in India filed a case against Pannu, accusing him of issuing threats against Air India passengers. The US Justice Department's charges come amid international efforts to combat terrorism and organized crime, reflecting the shared commitment to global security.
The Indian foreign ministry reiterated its commitment to national security, acknowledging the significance of the information shared by the US during bilateral security cooperation discussions. The Enquiry Committee's findings will guide India's next steps in addressing the alleged plot and ensuring the safety of its citizens on the international stage.
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