A US court has summoned Indian National Security Advisor Ajit Doval, former RAW chief Samant Goel, RAW agent Vikram Yadav, and businessman Nikhil Gupta in connection with an alleged conspiracy to murder Sikh leader Gurpatwant Singh Pannun.
The high-profile case involves allegations that the Indian government and its intelligence agency, RAW, were behind a plot to assassinate Pannun, a prominent advocate for Khalistan and Sikh self-determination.
International news agencies report that the conspiracy was uncovered in time, revealing connections to the Indian government and RAW. Pannun, who has been vocal about the Khalistan movement and pushing for a global referendum, has presented evidence linking RAW to the plot against him. He believes his advocacy for Khalistan and criticism of the Modi government’s human rights record have made him a target.
Pannun has vowed to continue his campaign for Khalistan, even if it costs him his life.
The Indian government has yet to respond to the court summons. In May, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar stated that India is investigating the issue but assured that it would not impact the growing relationship between India and the US. Similarly, US Ambassador to India Eric Garcetti has affirmed that this matter will not affect the bilateral ties between the two countries.
