In response to the allegations of an Indian government official's involvement in a foiled plot to murder Khalistani terrorist Gurpatwant Singh Pannun on American soil, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken has emphasized that the United States takes these claims seriously. While in Tel Aviv, Blinken stated that he couldn't provide detailed comments as the matter is under judicial consideration, but expressed appreciation for India's investigation into the alleged plot. The White House spokesperson, John Kirby, echoed Blinken's stance, emphasizing the strategic partnership between the United States and India.

Kirby affirmed that the US views India as a strategic partner and intends to further strengthen this partnership. At the same time, he emphasized that the US takes the allegations and the investigation very seriously, highlighting the importance of holding those responsible for these alleged crimes accountable. The US Justice Department recently indicted Indian citizen Nikhil Gupta, accusing him of collaborating with an Indian government employee to hire a hitman to kill Pannun, the founder of the Khalistani outfit Sikhs for Justice.

Although the indictment does not disclose the names of the targeted individual or the Indian government official, a report by the Financial Times alleged that the US had thwarted a plot to assassinate Pannun and later issued a warning to India over concerns of its involvement. India has responded promptly to the allegations by setting up a probe team to investigate the foiled plot. In a statement, Foreign Ministry spokesperson Arindam Bagchi expressed concern over the US linking an Indian official to the charged individual, deeming it contrary to government policy.

Nikhil Gupta, who has been charged with murder-for-hire and conspiracy to commit murder-for-hire, could face a maximum sentence of 20 years imprisonment if convicted. Federal prosecutors allege that the failed plot to kill Pannun was intended to initiate a series of politically motivated murders in the United States and Canada, with a goal of targeting at least four individuals in both countries by June 29 and more thereafter. Both the United States and India are eagerly awaiting the results of the investigation, underscoring their commitment to addressing the alleged plot and ensuring justice is served.