In a recent interview with the Financial Times, Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the allegations concerning an Indian national’s involvement in a murder plot targeting Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, a Canadian citizen and alleged Khalistani terrorist. US federal prosecutors charged Nikhil Gupta with murder-for-hire, sparking a diplomatic stir between India and the United States.
The Prime Minister assured cooperation, stating, “If someone gives us any information, we will definitely look into it. Our commitment is to the rule of law.” He emphasized the need to investigate any actions—good or bad—undertaken by Indian citizens and underscored India’s dedication to upholding the rule of law.
Despite the gravity of the accusations, Prime Minister Modi highlighted the enduring strength of the India-US relationship, citing bipartisan support and a mature partnership that transcends isolated incidents. He dismissed the notion of connecting a few incidents to the broader diplomatic ties between the two nations.
The allegations stem from communications between Nikhil Gupta and an Indian government staffer, with discussions allegedly involving planning the murder of Pannun in exchange for help dropping a criminal case in India. Gupta, currently detained in a Czech prison pending extradition to the US, faces severe legal consequences if convicted on charges of conspiracy and murder-for-hire.
India’s Foreign Ministry affirmed the seriousness with which the country views such allegations, acknowledging their potential impact on national security. A high-level inquiry committee has been established to investigate the matter.
The US has urged India to hold those involved accountable, with Secretary of State Antony Blinken expressing anticipation for the results of India’s inquiry. Meanwhile, Gupta’s plea in the Indian Supreme Court claiming violations of his religious and human rights has been met with the court deferring the hearing to January 4.
This case has also reignited discussions around previous allegations made by Canada regarding the purported involvement of an Indian government official in the killing of Hardeep Singh Nijjar, another alleged Khalistani terrorist and Canadian citizen. India has refuted these claims as baseless and motivated, emphasizing the lack of concrete evidence shared by Canada.
As the investigation unfolds, the international community watches closely, expecting transparency and accountability from India while reiterating the importance of maintaining diplomatic relations amid these sensitive developments.
Sources By Agencies
