Ex RAW officer Vikas Yadav Accused: A Former Indian intelligence officer Vikas Yadav has been accused by the U.S. Department of Justice of orchestrating a plot to assassinate pro-Khalistan leader Gurpatwant Singh Pannu on American soil. The alleged plan, which involved coordination between Indian intelligence operatives, failed, but it has raised concerns about international relations between India and the United States.
Allegations Against Vikas Yadav
According to U.S. authorities, Vikas Yadav, a former officer of India’s Research and Analysis Wing (RAW), conspired to eliminate Gurpatwant Singh Pannu, a key figure in the Khalistani separatist movement. The plot was reportedly devised in collaboration with Nikhil Gupta, who was arrested in Prague last year and subsequently extradited to the United States. Gupta is currently facing trial in a U.S. court.
The prosecution claims that Yadav instructed Gupta to hire a hitman for the assassination. Documents presented in court suggest that Yadav sought to execute the plan with help from collaborators both in India and abroad.
FBI Issues a Strong Warning
Reacting to the developments, FBI Director Christopher Wray issued a stern warning, stating that the United States will not tolerate violent attacks or revenge plots on its soil. He emphasized that the attempted attack on Pannu was a violation of his constitutional rights and that such actions would be met with the full force of U.S. law.
The FBI’s statement also indicated that the assassination plot was uncovered in May 2023, and U.S. authorities have since been investigating the matter in collaboration with international partners.
India Denies Involvement
India has firmly denied any involvement in the plot, asserting that it has no connection to the alleged conspiracy. The Indian government has sent a high-level delegation to the U.S. to review the evidence provided by American authorities. While tensions could escalate, both countries have expressed a commitment to cooperation on the investigation.
The U.S. Justice Department has expressed satisfaction with India’s support in the investigation, noting that communication channels between the two governments remain open.
Serious Charges Against Vikas Yadav
The U.S. Department of Justice has levied three major charges against Vikas Yadav, including conspiracy to commit murder and money laundering. Despite the gravity of the charges, Yadav remains at large, and authorities are continuing their search for him. Court documents reveal that Yadav instructed Gupta to plan the assassination of Pannu, though the plot was thwarted by U.S. officials.
Diplomatic Strain Between India and the U.S.
This case has the potential to strain diplomatic ties between India and the United States. However, U.S. State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller highlighted that both countries are working closely on the investigation. He expressed confidence in the ongoing dialogue between the nations and acknowledged India’s cooperation in addressing the allegations.
Conclusion: What Lies Ahead for Vikas Yadav?
As the investigation unfolds, all eyes are on the diplomatic implications of this case. While Vikas Yadav remains a fugitive, the U.S. is likely to pursue legal action through international channels. The case could have far-reaching consequences for U.S.-India relations, particularly in matters of intelligence collaboration and counterterrorism efforts.
