Unwarranted, Unsubstantiated Imputations: India Responds to Washington Post Report on Alleged Plot Against Sikh Extremist Gurpatwant Singh Pannun

New Delhi, India: In a development that has sent shockwaves through diplomatic circles, The Washington Post recently implicated an Indian official in an alleged plot to eliminate Sikh extremist Gurpatwant Singh Pannun. However, India swiftly responded, dismissing the report as “unwarranted and unsubstantiated.”

The newspaper, relying on unnamed sources, identified a Research and Analysis Wing (RAW) officer in connection with the purported assassination plan targeting Pannun. The gravity of the situation prompted External Affairs Ministry Spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal to issue a statement.

“The report in question makes unwarranted and unsubstantiated imputations on a serious matter,” Jaiswal asserted. He further revealed that an ongoing investigation is being conducted by a high-level committee established by the Government of India. This committee aims to address security concerns raised by the US government regarding organized criminal networks, terrorists, and related threats.

Jaiswal’s response came in the wake of media inquiries about the controversial report. He cautioned against speculative and irresponsible comments, emphasizing the need for a measured approach.

Last year, US federal prosecutors charged Indian national Nikhil Gupta with collaborating with an Indian government employee in an alleged plot to assassinate Pannun, who remains a wanted figure in India due to terror-related charges. Notably, Pannun holds dual citizenship in the United States and Canada.

External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar, addressing Parliament on December 7, confirmed that India had instituted an inquiry committee to examine the inputs provided by the US. The matter, with its implications for national security, continues to be closely monitored by authorities.