External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar addressed concerns regarding the alleged assassination plot targeting Khalistani terrorist Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, stating that India is actively investigating the matter based on information provided by the United States. His remarks came in response to comments made by US Ambassador Eric Garcetti regarding a ‘red line’ in the bilateral relationship between India and the US.
Jaishankar emphasized that while Garcetti’s comments reflect the position of the US government, India’s stance is informed by the specific information provided for investigation. He underscored India’s commitment to thoroughly probe the allegations and ensure accountability in accordance with the law.
In an interview with ANI, Ambassador Garcetti acknowledged the collaborative efforts between India and the US in investigating the alleged plot against Pannun. He emphasized the importance of respecting boundaries in diplomatic relations and condemned any involvement of government officials in criminal activities, including assassination plots against foreign citizens.
Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, designated as a terrorist by India, holds American and Canadian citizenship and has made repeated threats against India in the past. His threats, including targeting Air India operations and the Indian Parliament, have raised serious concerns about national security.
According to the US Justice Department indictment, an Indian national named Nikhil Gupta, currently in custody, has been charged with soliciting the murder-for-hire of Pannun. The indictment also implicates an unidentified Indian government employee in recruiting Gupta for the alleged assassination plot, which was thwarted by US authorities.
Ambassador Garcetti commended India’s initiative in forming an inquiry commission to investigate the matter thoroughly. He expressed satisfaction with the proactive approach taken by Indian authorities to address the allegations and underscored the importance of mutual cooperation in addressing such serious accusations.
Jon Finer, US Principal Deputy National Security Advisor, had previously acknowledged India’s establishment of a Committee of Enquiry to investigate the alleged plot against Pannun in the US. This acknowledgment reflects the collaborative efforts between the two countries in addressing security threats and upholding the rule of law.
Overall, the statements from both Indian and US officials underscore the seriousness with which the alleged assassination plot is being handled and the commitment to ensuring justice and accountability in this matter. The cooperation between India and the US in investigating and addressing security threats highlights the strength of their bilateral relationship and their shared commitment to combatting terrorism and upholding the rule of law.
