In response to allegations of an assassination plot targeting a Sikh separatist in the US, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has stated that India is willing to investigate any evidence provided. The US Justice Department recently charged an Indian citizen, Nikhil Gupta, with conspiring to assassinate a Sikh separatist leader on US soil, implicating an Indian government official in the planning. Modi emphasized India’s commitment to the rule of law and mentioned that a high-level inquiry committee had been set up by the foreign ministry to examine the matter. The US has treated the alleged plot with utmost seriousness, raising the issue with the Indian government.
Canada and India previously experienced a diplomatic row when Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau linked New Delhi to the killing of Canadian citizen Hardeep Singh Nijjar, also a Sikh separatist. Modi’s comments come after the White House expressed concern over the alleged plot and reported that the US had thwarted a conspiracy to kill Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, a US and Canadian citizen. The US indictment appears to have influenced the Modi government’s stance toward Canada, fostering an understanding that collaboration is essential in addressing such issues. Additionally, Modi highlighted India’s deep concern about the activities of certain extremist groups based overseas, citing their engagement in intimidation and incitement of violence under the guise of freedom of expression.
