PM Modi emphasized the robust bipartisan backing for enhancing the Indo-US relationship, highlighting the evident signs of a mature and steadfast partnership.
Source: Zee News
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has addressed the accusation of an Indian conspiracy to eliminate Khalistani separatists in the United States for the first time.
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During an interview with the Financial Times, PM Modi emphasized that his government would thoroughly investigate any information provided to them. Furthermore, he stated that they are prepared to examine the actions of their citizens, whether they have engaged in positive or negative activities, as their commitment lies with upholding the rule of law.
India has expressed its concern over the recent developments involving Nikhil Gupta, an Indian national who has been charged by US federal prosecutors for his alleged involvement in a plot to kill Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, an American and Canadian citizen. Gupta is currently being held in custody in the Czech Republic and is awaiting extradition to the US.
In response to these charges, India has initiated a high-level investigation and has stated that appropriate action will be taken based on the findings of the inquiry committee. The Ministry of External Affairs in India has set up this committee to examine the information provided by the US regarding this case.
Hardeep Singh Nijjar Murder: Canada blames India
In September, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau accused India of being involved in the killing of Khalistani terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar. However, India promptly dismissed these allegations, deeming them “absurd” and politically motivated.In 2020, India officially labeled Pannun as a terrorist and has consistently accused the Western nations of downplaying the seriousness of the Sikh separatist movement.
Prime Minister Modi emphasized to FT that India has consistently expressed deep concern over the activities of “certain extremist” groups operating from foreign soil. The prime minister stated that these individuals, using the pretext of freedom of speech, have resorted to intimidation and encouraged acts of violence.
In a recent video message, Pannun issued a threat to “destabilize the core of Parliament” on December 13, marking the anniversary of the 2001 terrorist assault on Parliament. The video featured a picture of Afzal Guru, the convicted perpetrator of the 2001 Parliament attack, and the leader of the banned group Sikhs for Justice alleged that the Narendra Modi government attempted to assassinate him, vowing to retaliate on December 13.
Prior to that, Pannun published an additional video urging Sikhs to refrain from boarding Air India planes after November 19, as their safety could be jeopardized.
Nikhil Gupta: The Accused in Gurpatwant Singh Pannun Murder
In late November, Nikhil Gupta, an Indian citizen, was indicted by federal prosecutors for his purported involvement in the scheme. US authorities claim that he conspired to pay a hitman $100,000 to assassinate the Sikh separatist leader residing in New York City. The 52-year-old has been charged with murder-for-hire and conspiracy to commit murder-for-hire, both of which carry a maximum prison sentence of 10 years.
A high-level investigation team has already been formed by India to look into the accusations regarding the thwarted assassination plot against Pannun. In the meantime, the Biden administration has provided a briefing to five Indian-American lawmakers regarding Gupta’s indictment on Friday.
In relation to his arrest, Gupta’s family has filed a habeas corpus plea before the Supreme Court. He has claimed serious violations of human rights during his solitary confinement, such as being compelled to consume beef and pork. Additionally, he has asserted that he was denied consular access, the ability to communicate with his family in India, and the freedom to seek legal representation.
