Nikhil Gupta’s Extradition to US: Allegations and Responses from Officials
Indian national Nikhil Gupta, extradited to the United States, faces accusations of orchestrating a murder plot targeting Sikh separatist Gurpatwant Singh Pannun. Appearing in a New York federal court, Gupta pleaded not guilty to charges of hiring a gunman for this purpose, which could lead to a maximum 10-year prison sentence.
US Attorney General Merrick Garland emphasized that Gupta’s extradition underscores their commitment to prosecuting attempts to harm American citizens. Deputy Attorney General Lisa Monaco condemned the alleged plot as an attempt to silence a political activist, reaffirming the seriousness with which such actions are viewed by the US justice system.
FBI Director Christopher Wray asserted that foreign efforts to undermine constitutional freedoms in the US will not be tolerated, vowing continued collaboration with domestic and international partners to safeguard citizens’ rights.
Meanwhile, the US has shared evidence with India implicating an Indian government employee in directing Gupta’s actions from India. The involvement of Gupta, described also as an international narcotics trafficker by DEA Administrator Anne Milgram, underscores the complexity of the case, intertwining political motivations and criminal allegations.
New Delhi has acknowledged reviewing the evidence provided by the US, signaling ongoing diplomatic and legal implications surrounding the extradition and allegations against Gupta.
