US Asks India For Quick Accountability In NY Murder Plot

WASHINGTON, DC (REUTERS) – U.S. officials have told their Indian counterparts they want a speedy result and more accountability after their investigation into Indian involvement in a foiled murder plot against a Sikh activist in the United States, according to a U.S. official.

An Indian Enquiry Committee visited Washington last week to discuss India’s own investigations after the Justice Department alleged an Indian intelligence official, Vikash Yadav had directed plans to assassinate Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, a Sikh separatist, last year.

“We’ve communicated really clearly that the U.S. government isn’t going to feel fully satisfied until we see that meaningful accountability takes place,” said a U.S. official who declined to be named. “We have been emphasizing that we hope that India will move as quickly as possible through their investigative process.”

The Indian embassy in Washington did not immediately respond to a request for comment. Washington’s message to Indian officials has not been previously reported.

The accusations have tested Washington’s relations with India, which the Biden administration sees as a potential counterbalance to China’s ambitions in the Indo-Pacific.

“India remains an incredibly important and valuable strategic partner,” the U.S. official said. “We also have to have trust and an ability to work through very difficult issues like this transparently.”