Former Indian spy charged in New York plot against Sikh dissident

In the United States, a former Indian intelligence officer has been charged with orchestrating a murder-for-hire plot against Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, a Sikh separatist leader. The indictment, which was made public recently, accuses Vikash Yadav of directing the scheme from abroad, while his co-conspirator, Nikhil Gupta, has already been extradited to the U.S. and is currently in custody. The plot is said to have been motivated by Pannun's advocacy for an independent Sikh state, which is considered a terrorist activity by the Indian government. The Justice Department's actions reflect a growing concern over transnational repression targeting diaspora communities in the U.S. The indictment highlights the use of confidential information and authority by Yadav to plan the assassination of a vocal critic of the Indian government. Gupta allegedly communicated with an undercover officer posing as a hitman, providing personal details about Pannun and urging immediate action while avoiding high-profile diplomatic events. This case comes amid heightened tensions between the U.S. and India, particularly following allegations from Canada regarding India's involvement in the assassination of Sikh dissidents. The U.S. government has expressed its commitment to holding accountable those who threaten American citizens, regardless of their position. The situation raises significant questions about the extent of foreign influence and the safety of diaspora communities in the U.S., as well as the implications for U.S.-India relations moving forward.