Sikh separatist leader Gurpatwant Singh Pannun has filed a civil lawsuit in a New York court against the Indian government, claiming damages for an alleged assassination plot against him. Indian officials have dismissed the lawsuit as baseless, with Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri describing it as “unwarranted” and noting Pannun’s status as a wanted man in India for terrorism-related activities. The case comes after U.S. prosecutors charged Indian national Nikhil Gupta for his involvement in the purported plot. Following these allegations, India has initiated a high-level inquiry to investigate the claims. This situation unfolds as Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi prepares for a significant visit to the U.S., where discussions on various issues, including mutual concerns, are expected.
India has firmly dismissed a lawsuit filed by Sikh separatist leader Gurpatwant Singh Pannun in a US court. Pannun, who leads the group Sikhs for Justice, claims the Indian government was involved in a foiled assassination plot against him last year on American soil. The lawsuit seeks damages from Indian officials, including National Security Advisor Ajit Doval.
In response, Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri labeled the lawsuit as “unwarranted and unsubstantiated.” He emphasized that Pannun, who is facing terrorism charges in India, represents an organization described as unlawful under Indian law for its anti-national activities.
The allegations have led India to establish a high-level committee to investigate claims tied to a plot reportedly uncovered by US authorities. Misri reassured that Indian and US agencies are addressing these serious allegations and that discussions between the two nations encompass a broad range of issues, including any mutual concerns.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to travel to the US for the annual Quad summit and will meet with President Joe Biden. Although it remains uncertain if the Khalistan issue will specifically arise in their discussions, India is committed to addressing all areas of mutual interest during these international engagements.
As this situation unfolds, it highlights the complex and strained relations concerning issues of sovereignty and security between India and the Sikh community abroad, drawing international attention.
Tags: India, Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, Sikhs for Justice, assassination plot, bilateral talks, Modi Biden meeting, Khalistan issue, foreign policy.
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What was the lawsuit about?
The lawsuit was filed by Pannun in the US but India dismissed it as unwarranted and without evidence. -
Who is Pannun?
Pannun is an individual who filed the lawsuit but India does not recognize the claims he made in it. -
What did India say about the lawsuit?
India said the lawsuit was baseless and lacked any solid proof. -
What happens next after India’s dismissal of the lawsuit?
With the dismissal, the lawsuit is effectively over, and India will not engage further on this matter. - Why is this case important?
This case highlights India’s stance against allegations that it sees as false or ungrounded, and it emphasizes the country’s legal position on international matters.