The FBI has notably increased its efforts to capture Vikash Yadav, a former Indian government official, charged with an alleged assassination plot for pro-Khalistani terrorist Gurpatwant Singh Pannun. The US authorities issued “wanted” posters in multiple languages, including Punjabi and Hindi, which raised concerns in India.
The unusual move has sparked intrigue as Indian authorities have clarified that Yadav is not evading law enforcement but is currently out of bail after being arrested in connection with an alleged robbery.
Reason Behind the New “Wanted” Posters to Be Released in Hindi and Punjabi
The FBI’s interest in Yadav appears to be influenced by rumors circulated by the Sikh separatist group Sikhs for Justice (SFJ), suggesting that Yadav could be hiding in Punjab or Haryana. Although Yadav has been placed on the FBI’s wanted list, his arrest and potential extradition may prove challenging due to political and legal complexities.
How Did the Assassination Plot of Gurpatwant Singh Pannun Unfold?
The alleged plot to assassinate Gurpatwant Singh Pannun was reportedly masterminded by Yadav. He collaborated with his co-conspirator, Nikhil Gupta. According to the US Department of Justice, Yadav allegedly directed the assassination attempt, which was planned to take place in New York City during the summer of 2023, around the time of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s state visit to the US.
Gupta, an Indian-origin drug dealer, was arrested in the Czech Republic in June 2023 and extradited to the US. He was allegedly accused of hiring an undercover FBI informant to carry out the murder. The FBI intercepted a transaction in which Gupta paid a $15,000 advance to the informant. The transaction was made to reveal the extent of the murder-for-hire scheme. The case attracted significant media attention as the Justice Department released photos of the transaction that took place in a vehicle in New York.
What is Vikash Yadav’s Background and Role in the Alleged Assassination Plot?
Yadav has a background in law enforcement and intelligence. He served as an Assistant Commandant with India’s Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF). He has also received specialized training in intelligence and security management. Yadav’s military experience and his role in security operations equipped him with the skills needed to coordinate the alleged plot. A photo included in the indictment shows him in an Army combat uniform. Yadav was not wearing rank epaulets in the image, further complicating the details of his service record.
The indictment portrays Yadav as a senior field officer tasked with managing security and intelligence matters. It indicates that his role within the Indian government may have enabled him to orchestrate such a covert operation.
How Has the Indian Government Responded to the Allegations?
The Indian government has strongly denied any official involvement in the alleged assassination plot. Randhir Jaiswal, a spokesperson from the Indian Ministry of External Affairs said that Yadav is no longer a government employee. He further stated that an investigation is currently underway.
The Indian government has also formed an inquiry committee to probe the allegations against Yadav. Despite the alleged charges, India insists that the plot had no official sanction, and that Yadav acted alone in his role.
What Are Vikash Yadav’s Legal Challenges and Appeals?
Yadav has filed an appeal claiming that the charges against him are fabricated. He contends that his safety is at risk due to the public release of his personal information by the US authorities. Yadav’s legal team has expressed concerns that he could be tracked if he participates in court proceedings remotely.
Yadav was arrested by the Delhi Police after the filing of an FIR related to extortion and kidnapping allegations on December 18, 2023. The arrest took place less than three weeks after the Department of Justice identified him as “CC-1” (co-conspirator) in pertinent documents from last November.
How Has the US Government Responded to the Assassination Plot?
The US has firmly stated that it will not tolerate any foreign interference or threats on American soil. US Attorney General Merrick B. Garland emphasized that the charges against Yadav demonstrate the US commitment to upholding the constitutional rights of its citizens. FBI Director Christopher Wray condemned the plot, stating that those involved would be brought to justice. The US authorities are committed to ensuring that those responsible for the plot face legal consequences, regardless of their nationality.
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Mallika Sadhu is a journalist committed to revealing the raw, unfiltered truth. Mallika's work is grounded in a dedication to transparency and integrity, aiming to present clear and impactful stories that matter. Through comprehensive reporting and honest storytelling, she strives to contribute to provide narratives that genuinely inform and engage. When not dwelling in the world of journalism, she is immersed in the colors of her canvas and pages of her journal.
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