US Court summons NSA Ajit Doval, former RAW chief over alleged plot to kill Khalistani separatist Gurpatwant Pannun
- US Court Summons Indian Officials Over Alleged Assassination Plot Against Khalistani Leader Gurpatwant Pannun
A significant development has emerged in the ongoing tensions surrounding Khalistani separatist leader Gurpatwant Singh Pannun. On September 19, 2024, a US federal court issued summons to the Indian government, including National Security Adviser Ajit Doval and former Research and Analysis Wing (R&AW) chief Samant Goel, in response to a civil lawsuit filed by Pannun. The lawsuit alleges an assassination plot against him that was purportedly orchestrated by Indian officials on US soil.
- Details of the Lawsuit
Pannun, who is a dual citizen of the US and Canada and serves as the legal advisor for the pro-Khalistan group Sikhs for Justice, claims that he narrowly escaped an attempt on his life in June 2023. The lawsuit, filed in the Southern District of New York, seeks damages for emotional distress and physical harm resulting from the alleged plot. It names several defendants, including R&AW officer Vikram Yadav and Indian businessman Nikhil Gupta, who is currently facing murder-for-hire charges related to this case.According to reports, Gupta was allegedly instructed by an unnamed Indian official to arrange for Pannun’s assassination, with a payment of $15,000 being discussed for hiring hitmen. This operation was reportedly thwarted when the would-be assassins turned out to be undercover US agents.
- Indian Government’s Response
The Indian government has labeled Pannun’s lawsuit as “completely unwarranted.” Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri stated that India has taken these allegations seriously and has established a high-level committee to investigate them. However, the Indian Ministry of External Affairs has not yet responded to the court summons, which requires a reply within 21 days.
- Background Context
This incident is part of a broader narrative involving India’s alleged extraterritorial operations against Sikh separatists abroad. The accusations gained traction following the fatal shooting of Hardeep Singh Nijjar, another Khalistani leader, in Canada in June 2023. Reports suggest that both incidents are linked to a pattern of violence against Sikh activists living outside India.The timing of this lawsuit is particularly notable as it coincides with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s upcoming visit to the United States for the Quad summit, where discussions on various bilateral issues are expected to take place. In light of these developments, it remains to be seen how both countries will navigate this complex situation amidst their strategic partnership and ongoing diplomatic engagements.
How has the Indian government responded to the summons issued to the Indian Consulate General in New York
The Indian government has responded firmly to the summons issued by a US court concerning the alleged plot to assassinate Khalistani separatist leader Gurpatwant Singh Pannun. The summons, which names key Indian officials including National Security Adviser Ajit Doval and former R&AW chief Samant Goel, has been labeled by the Indian Ministry of External Affairs as “completely unwarranted” and part of an ongoing narrative that India disputes.Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri emphasized that when these allegations were first brought to India’s attention, the government took immediate action, establishing a high-level committee to investigate the claims. Misri stated, “There’s a high-level committee engaged in this matter,” indicating that India is taking the situation seriously and is committed to addressing the concerns raised by the US. The Indian government has also initiated its own inquiry into the allegations, which surfaced following the arrest of Indian businessman Nikhil Gupta in connection with the purported assassination plot. Gupta is accused of attempting to hire a hitman under the direction of unnamed Indian officials. The Indian authorities have denied any involvement in such plots and have described the allegations as unsubstantiated. As part of its diplomatic strategy, India is expected to address these issues during Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s upcoming visit to the US for the Quad summit. Misri noted that all matters of mutual concern between India and the US would be discussed, suggesting that this situation will likely feature in those discussions. Overall, India’s response reflects a combination of denial regarding the allegations and a commitment to investigate them thoroughly, while also preparing for potential diplomatic repercussions during high-level meetings with US officials.
What evidence does Pannun have to support his allegations against Ajit Doval and other Indian officials
- Direct Involvement of Indian Officials: Pannun’s lawsuit alleges that senior officials from India’s intelligence agency, the Research and Analysis Wing (R&AW), were directly involved in orchestrating the assassination attempt. Specifically, he claims that R&AW officer Vikram Yadav was directed to recruit Indian businessman Nikhil Gupta to arrange for hitmen to kill him.
- Foiled Murder Plot: The plot against Pannun was reportedly foiled in June 2023 when the would-be assassins turned out to be undercover US agents. Pannun asserts that Gupta had promised to pay these agents $100,000 for the assassination, indicating a premeditated effort to carry out the attack.
- Communication Evidence: Pannun’s legal team suggests that communications between Gupta and R&AW officials, particularly Yadav, demonstrate a coordinated effort to execute the plot. Reports indicate that Yadav even sent Gupta a video of another Khalistani leader’s body shortly after his assassination, implying a direct connection and intent to intimidate.
- Historical Context of Targeting: Pannun argues that his advocacy for Khalistan and self-determination for Sikhs has made him a target of the Indian government. He claims that this assassination attempt is part of a broader pattern of violence against those who oppose the Indian government’s policies regarding Sikh rights.
- Allegations of Government Policy: The lawsuit alleges that there is a systematic approach within the Indian government to silence dissenting voices, with references to over 20 recent international murders linked to R&AW operations.Pannun’s assertion includes remarks made by Prime Minister Modi about conducting operations against perceived enemies, which he interprets as tacit approval for such actions.
Overall, Pannun’s allegations are supported by claims of direct involvement from high-ranking officials, documented communications related to the plot, and a historical context suggesting a pattern of targeting individuals advocating for Khalistani independence.
