NEW DELHI (Diya TV) — Senior officials familiar with the matter have revealed that India’s investigation into US claims regarding the attempted murder of a Khalistani separatist in New York found the involvement of rogue operatives not authorized by the government. At least one individual directly linked to the alleged assassination attempt is no longer associated with India’s main spy agency, the Research and Analysis Wing (R&AW), according to Bloomberg.
India has conveyed the findings of the government-appointed panel to US authorities, following demands for criminal prosecution of those involved in the plot. Donald Lu, assistant secretary of state for South and Central Asia, emphasized the seriousness of the issue during a Congressional hearing, urging swift and transparent action from India.
In November, US prosecutors unveiled charges against Nikhil Gupta, alleging his collaboration with an Indian government official in a scheme to assassinate Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, a Khalistani separatist. Pannun, a leader of the banned Sikhs for Justice (SFJ), was declared a terrorist by India.
Donald Lu underscored the Biden administration’s collaboration with India to ensure accountability in the foiled plot. The investigation into the matter, initiated by India, aims to shed light on the involvement of unauthorized operatives and pursue justice transparently.
While the United States is cooperating with India on the investigation, Pannun continues to issue threats against India, targeting politicians, diplomats, and intelligence officers. The SFJ founder’s activities are not only confined to the US and Canada but also extend to radicalizing the Sikh community in Punjab ahead of the 2024 elections.
The revelations from the investigation highlight the complexities of diplomatic relations between India and the US, particularly concerning extremist activities and security threats. Both countries have reiterated their commitment to addressing such challenges through collaborative efforts, underscoring the importance of transparency and accountability in maintaining bilateral relations.
