US court summons Indian government over alleged Pannun murder plot
What's the story
The United States District Court for the Southern District of New York has issued a summons to the Indian government. This action follows a civil lawsuit filed by Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, a pro-Khalistan terrorist who alleges that there was a conspiracy to assassinate him. The summons specifically names the Government of India, National Security Advisor Ajit Doval, former R&AW chief Samant Goel, R&AW agent Vikram Yadav and Indian businessman Nikhil Gupta.
Plot details
Alleged assassination plot
The alleged assassination plot against Pannun, who leads the radical group Sikhs for Justice and holds dual citizenship in the US and Canada, was first reported by the Financial Times in November. The Joe Biden administration later confirmed these reports. In response to this development, India's External Affairs Ministry expressed concern and announced a high-level investigation into the matter.
Diplomatic stance
India-US relations remain unaffected, says Jaishankar
Despite the serious allegations, External Affairs Minister Dr. S Jaishankar has stated that this issue will not hinder the "upward trajectory" of India-US relations. "The United States brought to our attention certain information in good faith because we also believe some of it has implications for our own system," he said. US ambassador to India Eric Garcetti echoed these sentiments, assuring that this matter will not affect bilateral ties between the two nations.
Legal proceedings
Pannun's lawsuit details and compensation claims
Pannun's lawsuit alleges that Yadav, under R&AW's direction, recruited Gupta to orchestrate an assassination attempt on him. This plan was reportedly approved by Goel and Doval but was thwarted when the hired hitmen turned out to be undercover US agents. The complaint suggests Prime Minister Narendra Modi was aware of the plot but does not include him due to his diplomatic immunity. Pannun is now seeking financial compensation for assault and extreme emotional distress, claiming his life remains under threat.
Ongoing case
Pannun's allegations
Pannun alleges that he is being targeted due to his efforts to promote Khalistan and organize an unofficial Khalistan referendum. He claims that "India has been traced to over 20 recent international murders carried out by R&AW." His counsel, Matthew Borden of Braun Hagey & Borden LLP, stated, "This lawsuit seeks to hold the GOI and a number of high-ranking officials there accountable under US tort law."