Indian parliament suffered a major security breach on Wednesday (Dec 13) afternoon as two men entered the lower house (Lok Sabha) and hurled smoke canisters - causing a commotion till MPs and security guards nabbed them and gave them a thrashing.

Indian parliament suffered a major security breach on Wednesday (Dec 13) afternoon as two men entered the lower house (Lok Sabha) and hurled smoke canisters - causing a commotion till MPs and security guards nabbed them and gave them a thrashing. The incident came hot on the heels of US-based Khalistani terrorist Gurpatwant Singh Pannun threatening an attack on the parliament on or before December 13. In a video posted on social media, Pannun featured alongside a poster of Indian Parliament attack convict Afzal Guru who was hanged in February 2013. The separatist captioned the video as saying: 'Delhi Banega Khalistan' (Delhi will turn into Khalistan)'. Pannun, who has dual citizenship in the US and Canada—said that his action will "shake the very foundations of Parliament". “My response on 13 December will be in contrast to the 2001 Afzal Guru's resistance against extrajudicial killings of Kashmiris. But, it is going to still shake the very foundations of India’s Parliament. Delhi banega Khalistan (Delhi will become Khalistan)’,” Pannun said in the video shared on social media last Tuesday (Dec 5). Pannun is the leader of the banned terror organisation Sikhs For Justice (SFJ) and has been making incendiary statements against India for a long time. Last month, the US claimed it foiled a murder attempt against Pannun on its soil by an Indian. Although no links of Wednesday's incident have been found to Pannun so far, the security breach in parliament comes a week after his statement. The incident transpired on the same day as the 2001 parliament attack when terrorists lay a siege on the all-important building, killing 14 people and injuring 16 others. Watch | 'Will attack Indian Parliament on or before Dec,' Pannun threatens New Delhi What happened in the Indian Parliament? According to BJP MP Rajendra Agarwal, who was presiding over the House, two men jumped from the public gallery before taking out something from their shoes which released coloured smoke. "Security officials have nabbed them. The investigation is underway and we will get to know what was their objective and if they are connected to any organisation," said Agarwal. According to unconfirmed reports, the two persons were chanting slogans such as ‘tana shahi nahi chalegi’ (dictatorship won’t be accepted). Also read | Major security breach inside Indian parliament, two enter Lok Sabha, hurl smoke gas canisters Apart from the parliament, two protesters, a man and a woman were also detained by the police in front of Transport Bhawan where they were protesting using coloured smoke. According to Delhi Police, the woman has been identified as Neelam, hailing from Hissar, Haryana while the man is one Amol Shinde, a resident of the Latur district in the western state of Maharashtra. (With inputs from agencies)

Security breach in Indian parliament after Khalistani terrorist Pannun issued threats

US lawmakers mentioned India for the first time during a discussion on “transnational repression” in the wake of an alleged plot to kill Khalistani terrorist Gurpatwant Singh Pannun who had threatened attacks on Air India planes and the Indian Parliament.

The chairman of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee on Wednesday (Dec 6) vowed to introduce legislation to address the concerns of pro-democracy advocates.

During the hearing on “transnational repression and authoritarians targeting dissenters abroad”, several US Senators spoke about New Delhi’s alleged link to conspiring to assassinate Pannun, the Sikhs for Justice (SFJ) chief who has been designated as a terrorist by India.&nbsp;

<h2>What happened at the hearing?</h2>

The senators heard from pro-democracy advocates who called for increased US government efforts to combat efforts by foreign nations to threaten or kill political dissenters.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/khalistani-terrorist-gurpatwant-singh-pannun-threatens-to-blow-up-parliament-after-failed-assassination-bid-666712">Khalistani terrorist Gurpatwant Singh Pannun threatens to blow up Indian Parliament after 'plot' to kill him</a>

Last week, the Department of Justice announced charges against 52-year-old Nikhil Gupta, an Indian citizen who has been accused of orchestrating the attempted murder of Pannun, with an unnamed Indian government employee.

“We’ve seen disturbing allegations against an Indian government official for involvement in planning to assassinate a US citizen in New York who was critical of the Indian government,” said Senator Ben Cardin, chairman of the Senate Foreign Affairs Committee, as quoted by the South China Morning Post (SCMP).&nbsp;

The “US citizen in New York” that the Democrat from the US state of Maryland was referring to was the Khalistani terrorist who recently also threatened to blow up the Indian Parliament on or before December 13, the anniversary of the 2001 parliament attack, in response to the foiled assassination plot. Pannun says he is a dual citizen of the US and Canada.&nbsp;

In response to Washington’s concerns over the assassination attempt, New Delhi, around mid-November set up a high-level panel which will investigate the allegations.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-says-high-level-panel-to-look-into-allegations-after-us-charges-indian-in-plot-to-kill-pannun-664615">&nbsp;India says high-level panel to look into allegations after US charges Indian in 'plot' to kill SFJ's Pannun</a>

During the hearing, Cardin said lawmakers would introduce the International Freedom Protection Act to address the “growing use of transnational oppression by autocratic and illiberal states”.

Tim Kaine, a Democrat from Virginia called the allegations against India for targeting Sikh separatists “highly disturbing” and said this is “not the behaviour of a respectable democracy.”&nbsp;

“We’re dealing with a nation that we have such strong connections to,” Kaine added, saying that New Delhi and Washington have strong military and economic connections and called the Indian American diaspora “an important part of who we are as a country”.&nbsp;

<h2>US should not hesitate</h2>

Freedom House, a pro-democracy non-profit, released a report which found that since 2014, at least 26 nations including China, Iran, Russia and Saudi Arabia have targeted journalists abroad with “transnational repression”.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-says-row-over-pannun-murder-plot-will-not-impact-larger-washington-delhi-ties-664872">US says row over Pannun murder 'plot' will not impact larger Washington-Delhi ties</a>

The non-profit’s president Michael Abramowitz also appeared before the panel and said that “whether a government engages in transnational oppression should be a factor, a significant factor, determining the nature of bilateral relations and the closeness of any partnership,” as quoted by SCMP.

He also spoke about how Washington should not hesitate to raise the issue “directly at the highest levels” with countries “even when those perpetrators are close partners such as Saudi Arabia and India”.

Since the allegations against an unnamed Indian official’s involvement in the alleged plot to kill Khalistani terrorist surfaced, the White House has said that the row will not have an impact on larger India-US ties.

(With inputs from agencies)

US lawmakers mentioned India for the first time during a discussion on “transnational repression” in the wake of an alleged plot to kill Khalistani terrorist Gurpatwant Singh Pannun who had threatened attacks on Air India planes and the Indian Parliament.

US lawmakers mentioned India for the first time during a discussion on “transnational repression” in the wake of an alleged plot to kill Khalistani terrorist Gurpatwant Singh Pannun who had threatened attacks on Air India planes and the Indian Parliament. The chairman of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee on Wednesday (Dec 6) vowed to introduce legislation to address the concerns of pro-democracy advocates. During the hearing on “transnational repression and authoritarians targeting dissenters abroad”, several US Senators spoke about New Delhi’s alleged link to conspiring to assassinate Pannun, the Sikhs for Justice (SFJ) chief who has been designated as a terrorist by India. What happened at the hearing? The senators heard from pro-democracy advocates who called for increased US government efforts to combat efforts by foreign nations to threaten or kill political dissenters. ALSO READ | Khalistani terrorist Gurpatwant Singh Pannun threatens to blow up Indian Parliament after 'plot' to kill him Last week, the Department of Justice announced charges against 52-year-old Nikhil Gupta, an Indian citizen who has been accused of orchestrating the attempted murder of Pannun, with an unnamed Indian government employee. “We’ve seen disturbing allegations against an Indian government official for involvement in planning to assassinate a US citizen in New York who was critical of the Indian government,” said Senator Ben Cardin, chairman of the Senate Foreign Affairs Committee, as quoted by the South China Morning Post (SCMP). The “US citizen in New York” that the Democrat from the US state of Maryland was referring to was the Khalistani terrorist who recently also threatened to blow up the Indian Parliament on or before December 13, the anniversary of the 2001 parliament attack, in response to the foiled assassination plot. Pannun says he is a dual citizen of the US and Canada. In response to Washington’s concerns over the assassination attempt, New Delhi, around mid-November set up a high-level panel which will investigate the allegations. ALSO READ | India says high-level panel to look into allegations after US charges Indian in 'plot' to kill SFJ's Pannun During the hearing, Cardin said lawmakers would introduce the International Freedom Protection Act to address the “growing use of transnational oppression by autocratic and illiberal states”. Tim Kaine, a Democrat from Virginia called the allegations against India for targeting Sikh separatists “highly disturbing” and said this is “not the behaviour of a respectable democracy.” “We’re dealing with a nation that we have such strong connections to,” Kaine added, saying that New Delhi and Washington have strong military and economic connections and called the Indian American diaspora “an important part of who we are as a country”. US should not hesitate Freedom House, a pro-democracy non-profit, released a report which found that since 2014, at least 26 nations including China, Iran, Russia and Saudi Arabia have targeted journalists abroad with “transnational repression”. ALSO READ | US says row over Pannun murder 'plot' will not impact larger Washington-Delhi ties The non-profit’s president Michael Abramowitz also appeared before the panel and said that “whether a government engages in transnational oppression should be a factor, a significant factor, determining the nature of bilateral relations and the closeness of any partnership,” as quoted by SCMP. He also spoke about how Washington should not hesitate to raise the issue “directly at the highest levels” with countries “even when those perpetrators are close partners such as Saudi Arabia and India”. Since the allegations against an unnamed Indian official’s involvement in the alleged plot to kill Khalistani terrorist surfaced, the White House has said that the row will not have an impact on larger India-US ties. (With inputs from agencies)

India mentioned in US hearing on dissenters being targeted abroad amid 'Pannun murder plot' row

Khalistani terrorist Gurpatwant Singh Pannun has threatened to blow up the Indian Parliament on or before December 13, the anniversary of the 2001 attack, in response to the foiled assassination plot.

In a video featuring alongside a poster of Parliament attack convict Afzal Guru with the caption 'Delhi Banega Khalistan' (Delhi will turn into Khalistan), Pannun—who has dual citizenship of the US and Canada—said that his action will "shake the very foundations of Parliament".

“My response on 13 December will be in contrast to the 2001 Afzal Gurus resistance against extrajudicial killings of Kashmiris. But, it is going to still shake the very foundations of India’s Parliament. Delhi BanayGa Khalista’,” Pannun said in the video shared on social media on Tuesday (Dec 5).

<h2>Threat comes amidst ongoing parliament session</h2>

The threat comes amidst the ongoing Winter Session of the Indian Parliament, which is scheduled to end on December 22.

Meanwhile, Indian security agencies have beefed up security in and around the national capital Delhi to thwart any such activities by operatives of US-based Sikh for Justice, founded by Pannun.

The development comes days after the US charged an Indian man with attempting to carry out the assassination of the Khalistani leader on “American soil”.

A press release by the US Justice Department, quoting court documents, said that earlier this year, "an Indian government employee, working together with others, including Gupta, in India and elsewhere, directed a plot to assassinate on US soil an attorney and political activist who is a US citizen of Indian-origin residing in New York City".

<h2>Assassination plot foiled</h2>

The statement was released after an Indian-origin drug trafficker named Nikhil Gupta was detained by Czech authorities at Prague airport on June 30 at the US government's request.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-says-taking-matter-seriously-as-india-probes-alleged-assassination-plot-666662">Pannun murder plot: US says taking matter 'seriously' as India starts probe</a>

He was accused of working with an undercover cop and hiring an informant from the Drug Enforcement Agency to kill Pannun.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-charges-indian-national-with-conspiracy-to-assassinate-sikh-separatist-664387">US charges Indian national with conspiracy to assassinate Khalistani separatist Pannun</a>

Gupta was subsequently handed over to the US authorities around the first week of November, shortly before an indictment was filed in a New York court.

In response, India dissociated with the incident and expressed concern over being associated with the killing bid.

Khalistani terrorist Gurpatwant Singh Pannun has threatened to blow up the Indian Parliament on or before December 13, the anniversary of the 2001 attack, in response to the foiled assassination plot.

Khalistani terrorist Gurpatwant Singh Pannun has threatened to blow up the Indian Parliament on or before December 13, the anniversary of the 2001 attack, in response to the foiled assassination plot. In a video featuring alongside a poster of Parliament attack convict Afzal Guru with the caption 'Delhi Banega Khalistan' (Delhi will turn into Khalistan), Pannun—who has dual citizenship of the US and Canada—said that his action will "shake the very foundations of Parliament". “My response on 13 December will be in contrast to the 2001 Afzal Gurus resistance against extrajudicial killings of Kashmiris. But, it is going to still shake the very foundations of India’s Parliament. Delhi BanayGa Khalista’,” Pannun said in the video shared on social media on Tuesday (Dec 5). Threat comes amidst ongoing parliament session The threat comes amidst the ongoing Winter Session of the Indian Parliament, which is scheduled to end on December 22. Meanwhile, Indian security agencies have beefed up security in and around the national capital Delhi to thwart any such activities by operatives of US-based Sikh for Justice, founded by Pannun. The development comes days after the US charged an Indian man with attempting to carry out the assassination of the Khalistani leader on “American soil”. A press release by the US Justice Department, quoting court documents, said that earlier this year, "an Indian government employee, working together with others, including Gupta, in India and elsewhere, directed a plot to assassinate on US soil an attorney and political activist who is a US citizen of Indian-origin residing in New York City". Assassination plot foiled The statement was released after an Indian-origin drug trafficker named Nikhil Gupta was detained by Czech authorities at Prague airport on June 30 at the US government's request. Also read | Pannun murder plot: US says taking matter 'seriously' as India starts probe He was accused of working with an undercover cop and hiring an informant from the Drug Enforcement Agency to kill Pannun. Also read: US charges Indian national with conspiracy to assassinate Khalistani separatist Pannun Gupta was subsequently handed over to the US authorities around the first week of November, shortly before an indictment was filed in a New York court. In response, India dissociated with the incident and expressed concern over being associated with the killing bid.

Khalistani terrorist Gurpatwant Singh Pannun threatens to blow up Indian Parliament after 'plot' to kill him

The US on Thursday (Nov 30) praised India for taking note of Washington's 'very serious' concerns over an alleged plot to kill separatist Sikh leader Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, listed as a terrorist in India, over his espousal of separatism in the Indian state of Punjab for a separate Sikh state, a cause widely denounced in India.

The US arrested an Indian national who&nbsp;Washington alleged, hired someone in the United States to assassinate Pannun.&nbsp;

An unnamed Indian official appeared in an indictment filed by federal prosecutors in a Manhattan court on Wednesday along with the said Indian national.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-says-high-level-panel-to-look-into-allegations-after-us-charges-indian-in-plot-to-kill-pannun-664615">India says high-level panel to look into allegations after US charges Indian in 'plot' to kill SFJ's Pannun</a>

"These allegations in this investigation, (we) take it very seriously. And we're glad to see that the Indians are too by announcing their own efforts to investigate this. And we've been clear that we want to see anybody that's responsible for these alleged crimes to be held properly accountable," John Kirby, Coordinator for Strategic Communications at the National Security Council in the White House, told reporters at a news conference.

The White House spokesperson, while referring to the strategic ties between Washington and New Delhi, said that the row&nbsp;will not have an impact on larger India-US ties.

Also watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: India Responds To Pannun Murder Plot Charge | 'Not Our Policy...'

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"I want to be careful here that I don't get ahead of the Department of Justice and talk about an ongoing investigation. I would just say two things. India remains a strategic partner and we're going to continue to work to improve and strengthen that strategic partnership with India. At the same time, we take this very seriously," Kirby said in response to a question.

The Department of Justice, in an indictment charged Indian national Nikhil Gupta with conspiracy to commit murder for hire for his alleged role in the plot to kill Gurpatwant Singh Pannun.

Gupta is accused of working with an Indian government employee to recruit and pay an assassin to carry out the killing.

The US Senate Foreign Relations Committee will now meet in the aftermath of the Nikhil Gupta case.

(With inputs from agencies)

The US on Thursday (Nov 30) praised India for taking note of Washington's 'very serious' concerns over an alleged plot to kill separatist Sikh leader Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, listed as a terrorist in India, over his espousal of separatism in the Indian state of Punjab for a separate Sikh state, a cause widely denounced in India.

The US on Thursday (Nov 30) praised India for taking note of Washington's 'very serious' concerns over an alleged plot to kill separatist Sikh leader Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, listed as a terrorist in India, over his espousal of separatism in the Indian state of Punjab for a separate Sikh state, a cause widely denounced in India. The US arrested an Indian national who Washington alleged, hired someone in the United States to assassinate Pannun. An unnamed Indian official appeared in an indictment filed by federal prosecutors in a Manhattan court on Wednesday along with the said Indian national. Also read | India says high-level panel to look into allegations after US charges Indian in 'plot' to kill SFJ's Pannun "These allegations in this investigation, (we) take it very seriously. And we're glad to see that the Indians are too by announcing their own efforts to investigate this. And we've been clear that we want to see anybody that's responsible for these alleged crimes to be held properly accountable," John Kirby, Coordinator for Strategic Communications at the National Security Council in the White House, told reporters at a news conference. The White House spokesperson, while referring to the strategic ties between Washington and New Delhi, said that the row will not have an impact on larger India-US ties. Also watch | Gravitas: India Responds To Pannun Murder Plot Charge | 'Not Our Policy...' × "I want to be careful here that I don't get ahead of the Department of Justice and talk about an ongoing investigation. I would just say two things. India remains a strategic partner and we're going to continue to work to improve and strengthen that strategic partnership with India. At the same time, we take this very seriously," Kirby said in response to a question. The Department of Justice, in an indictment charged Indian national Nikhil Gupta with conspiracy to commit murder for hire for his alleged role in the plot to kill Gurpatwant Singh Pannun. Gupta is accused of working with an Indian government employee to recruit and pay an assassin to carry out the killing. The US Senate Foreign Relations Committee will now meet in the aftermath of the Nikhil Gupta case. (With inputs from agencies)

US says row over Pannun murder 'plot' will not impact larger Washington-Delhi ties

Indian national Nikhil Gupta who is accused of hiring an individual as part of an alleged 'plot' to kill Khalistani terrorist Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, does have a criminal record, the police confirmed on Thursday (Nov 30).&nbsp;

The US law enforcement authorities allege that Gupta agreed to the 'plot' to kill Pannun after he was assured by the Indian government official directing him that a purported Gujarat case against him will be taken care of.

The Gujarat Police reportedly scanned Gupta's record and said they did not find a record against him.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-says-row-over-pannun-murder-plot-will-not-impact-larger-washington-delhi-ties-664872">US says row over Pannun murder 'plot' will not impact larger Washington-Delhi ties</a>

"We have inquired about the person named Nikhil Gupta and the prima facie inquiry did not find any case against him after I confirmed with all the four commissionerates in Gujarat. All the DCPs from the city confirmed that they did not know who Nikhil Gupta was," Gujarat Director General of Police Vikas Sahay was quoted as saying by the Times of India.&nbsp;

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Release from the office of Damian Williams, the United States Attorney for the Southern District of New York who has filed the Nikhil Gupta case. Says,'Gupta, 52, of India, has been charged with murder-for-hire, which carries a maximum sentence of 10 years in prison.." <a href="https://t.co/6x92CZqsZK">https://t.co/6x92CZqsZK</a> <a href="https://t.co/d2PET9dfPc">pic.twitter.com/d2PET9dfPc</a>
— Sidhant Sibal (@sidhant) <a href="https://twitter.com/sidhant/status/1730469310110503005?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 1, 2023</a></blockquote>
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According to the US federal authorities, the Indian official allegedly assured Gupta that "your Gujarat (case) has been taken care of" and "nobody will ever bother you again".&nbsp;

Also watch |&nbsp;'Indian govt employee' directed foiled plot to kill khalistani leader Pannun: US

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He further offered to arrange a meeting between Gupta and a "DCP" (Deputy Commissioner of Police), according to the federal authorities.

The newspaper also cited sources in Gujarat Police to suggest that they did not even find a suspicious person named Nikhil Gupta in any case related with arms or drugs smuggling or peddling.

<h2>The case in the US against Indian national Nikhil Gupta</h2>

The US has branded Gupta as an individual with involvement in international narcotics and weapons trafficking in his communications with the purported Indian government official described as CC-1 in the US Justice Department papers.&nbsp;

"In or about May 2023, CC-1 recruited Gupta to orchestrate the assassination of the Victim in the United States," the state department has alleged, in which case the so-called victim is Gurpatwant Singh Pannun.&nbsp;

Gupta is charged with murder-for-hire and conspiracy to commit murder-for-hire. Each count carries a maximum statutory penalty of 10 years in prison.

(With inputs from agencies)

Indian national Nikhil Gupta who is accused of hiring an individual as part of an alleged 'plot' to kill Khalistani terrorist Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, does have a criminal record, the police confirmed on Thursday (Nov 30).

Indian national Nikhil Gupta who is accused of hiring an individual as part of an alleged 'plot' to kill Khalistani terrorist Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, does have a criminal record, the police confirmed on Thursday (Nov 30). The US law enforcement authorities allege that Gupta agreed to the 'plot' to kill Pannun after he was assured by the Indian government official directing him that a purported Gujarat case against him will be taken care of. The Gujarat Police reportedly scanned Gupta's record and said they did not find a record against him. Also read | US says row over Pannun murder 'plot' will not impact larger Washington-Delhi ties "We have inquired about the person named Nikhil Gupta and the prima facie inquiry did not find any case against him after I confirmed with all the four commissionerates in Gujarat. All the DCPs from the city confirmed that they did not know who Nikhil Gupta was," Gujarat Director General of Police Vikas Sahay was quoted as saying by the Times of India. Release from the office of Damian Williams, the United States Attorney for the Southern District of New York who has filed the Nikhil Gupta case. Says,'Gupta, 52, of India, has been charged with murder-for-hire, which carries a maximum sentence of 10 years in prison.." https://t.co/6x92CZqsZK pic.twitter.com/d2PET9dfPc — Sidhant Sibal (@sidhant) December 1, 2023 × According to the US federal authorities, the Indian official allegedly assured Gupta that "your Gujarat (case) has been taken care of" and "nobody will ever bother you again". Also watch | 'Indian govt employee' directed foiled plot to kill khalistani leader Pannun: US × He further offered to arrange a meeting between Gupta and a "DCP" (Deputy Commissioner of Police), according to the federal authorities. The newspaper also cited sources in Gujarat Police to suggest that they did not even find a suspicious person named Nikhil Gupta in any case related with arms or drugs smuggling or peddling. The case in the US against Indian national Nikhil Gupta The US has branded Gupta as an individual with involvement in international narcotics and weapons trafficking in his communications with the purported Indian government official described as CC-1 in the US Justice Department papers. "In or about May 2023, CC-1 recruited Gupta to orchestrate the assassination of the Victim in the United States," the state department has alleged, in which case the so-called victim is Gurpatwant Singh Pannun. Gupta is charged with murder-for-hire and conspiracy to commit murder-for-hire. Each count carries a maximum statutory penalty of 10 years in prison. (With inputs from agencies)

Pannun killing 'plot' row: No 'Gujarat case' against Nikhil Gupta, Indian police say

The United States on Wednesday (Nov 29) charged an Indian national with murder-for-hire over a conspiracy to assassinate an American citizen of Indian origin who has publicly advocated for the establishment of a sovereign state for Sikhs, the US attorney's office in Manhattan said in a statement.

US Attorney Damian Williams announced charges against Nikhil Gupta, who was arrested by Czech authorities in the month of June this year in conformance to the bilateral extradition treaty between the United States and the Czech Republic.

"The defendant conspired from India to assassinate, right here in New York City, a US citizen of Indian origin who has publicly advocated for the establishment of a sovereign state for Sikhs," Damian Williams, the top federal prosecutor in Manhattan, said in a statement.

The official further stated that Khalistani separatist and leader of the banned Sikhs For Justice (SFJ) outfit Gurpatwant Singh Pannun was the target of the alleged assassination plot, who is a dual citizen of the United States and Canada.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-looking-into-us-report-on-alleged-nexus-between-organised-criminals-terrorists-and-others-mea-664221">India looking into US report on alleged 'nexus between organised criminals, terrorists, and others': MEA</a>

<h2>Gupta was involved in narcotics and weapons trafficking, alleged indictment</h2>

The indictment alleged that the foiled plot was orchestrated by an Indian government agency employee who diversely described himself as a “Senior Field Officer” with responsibilities in “Security Management” and “Intelligence,” and also claimed to have served previously in India’s Central Reserve Police Force and receiving “officer training” in “battle craft” and “weapons".

It said that Gupta was involved in narcotics and weapons trafficking before he was hired to pursue the assassination of the target.

Gupta, it alleged, was introduced to a purported hitman who could murder the target.

The charges come after a senior Biden administration official last week released a statement saying that the US had thwarted a plot to kill a Sikh separatist.

These accusations come in the backdrop of Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau alleging that the Indian government was involved in the killing of Canada-based Khalistani separatist Hardeep Singh Nijjar in British Columbia.&nbsp;

Indian External Affairs Ministry also released a statement on Wednesday saying that it was looking into US reports on the alleged "nexus between organised criminals, gun runners, terrorists and others".

(With inputs from agencies)

The United States on Wednesday (Nov 29) charged an Indian national with murder-for-hire over a conspiracy to assassinate an American citizen of Indian origin who has publicly advocated for the establishment of a sovereign state for Sikhs, the US attorney's office in Manhattan said in a statement.

The United States on Wednesday (Nov 29) charged an Indian national with murder-for-hire over a conspiracy to assassinate an American citizen of Indian origin who has publicly advocated for the establishment of a sovereign state for Sikhs, the US attorney's office in Manhattan said in a statement. US Attorney Damian Williams announced charges against Nikhil Gupta, who was arrested by Czech authorities in the month of June this year in conformance to the bilateral extradition treaty between the United States and the Czech Republic. "The defendant conspired from India to assassinate, right here in New York City, a US citizen of Indian origin who has publicly advocated for the establishment of a sovereign state for Sikhs," Damian Williams, the top federal prosecutor in Manhattan, said in a statement. The official further stated that Khalistani separatist and leader of the banned Sikhs For Justice (SFJ) outfit Gurpatwant Singh Pannun was the target of the alleged assassination plot, who is a dual citizen of the United States and Canada. Also read: India looking into US report on alleged 'nexus between organised criminals, terrorists, and others': MEA Gupta was involved in narcotics and weapons trafficking, alleged indictment The indictment alleged that the foiled plot was orchestrated by an Indian government agency employee who diversely described himself as a “Senior Field Officer” with responsibilities in “Security Management” and “Intelligence,” and also claimed to have served previously in India’s Central Reserve Police Force and receiving “officer training” in “battle craft” and “weapons". It said that Gupta was involved in narcotics and weapons trafficking before he was hired to pursue the assassination of the target. Gupta, it alleged, was introduced to a purported hitman who could murder the target. The charges come after a senior Biden administration official last week released a statement saying that the US had thwarted a plot to kill a Sikh separatist. These accusations come in the backdrop of Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau alleging that the Indian government was involved in the killing of Canada-based Khalistani separatist Hardeep Singh Nijjar in British Columbia. Indian External Affairs Ministry also released a statement on Wednesday saying that it was looking into US reports on the alleged "nexus between organised criminals, gun runners, terrorists and others". (With inputs from agencies)

US charges Indian national with conspiracy to assassinate Khalistani separatist Pannun

Amid claims made by the US government that&nbsp;it foiled an assassination attempt against a Sikh separatist leader on its soil by an Indian man, Canada's Justin Trudeau has chimed in with a response. The Canadian prime minister urged India to take Ottawa's allegations seriously, referring to the murder of another separatist leader, Hardeep Singh Nijjar in Vancouver, earlier this year.&nbsp;

India and Canada have been in a diplomatic standoff ever since Trudeau addressed the&nbsp;parliament and said his government had 'credible allegations' that New Delhi was involved in the killing of the Khalistani separatist.&nbsp;

"The news coming out of the United States further underscores what we've been talking about from the very beginning, which is that India needs to take this seriously,"&nbsp;Trudeau told reporters in Ottawa.

"The Indian government needs to work with us to ensure that we're getting to the bottom of this," he added.

Notably, Trudeau had remained quiet on the issue for some time but hours after US Justice Department on Wednesday (Nov 29) said it was&nbsp;charging a 52-year-old Indian man for a plot to assassinate Khalistani separatist and leader of the banned Sikhs For Justice (SFJ) outfit Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, the liberal Canadian PM came up with a statement.&nbsp;

The Justice Department said the Indian man, identified as Nikhil Gupta, arrested by Czech authorities in June, had worked with an Indian government employee.&nbsp;

"The defendant conspired from India to assassinate, right here in New York City, a US citizen of Indian origin who has publicly advocated for the establishment of a sovereign state for Sikhs," Damian Williams, the top federal prosecutor in Manhattan, said in a statement.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/canadian-minister-dodges-direct-question-on-nijjar-killing-evidence-wion-649352">Watch |&nbsp;Canadian minister dodges direct question on Nijjar killing evidence&nbsp;</a>

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<h2>Ottawa yet to submit proof</h2>

After Trudeau's allegations concerning Nijjar, diplomatic animosity reached a tipping point between the two nations,&nbsp;with a&nbsp;series of mutual expulsions of diplomats taking place.&nbsp;

New Delhi was the first to temporarily suspend certain visa services which put Ottawa in a fix. However, despite the allegations, the Canadian government is yet to present proof to back up its allegations.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-charges-indian-national-with-conspiracy-to-assassinate-sikh-separatist-664387">Also read |&nbsp;US charges Indian national with conspiracy to assassinate Khalistani separatist Pannun</a>

Nijjar, the 45-year-old Khalistan Tiger Force (KTF) chief was shot&nbsp;dead on June 18 by two unidentified men in the parking lot of Guru Nanak Gurdwara Sahib in Surrey, Canada. He&nbsp;had moved to Canada in the late 1990s and was declared a designated terrorist by India in 2020.

(With inputs from agencies)

Amid claims made by the US government that it foiled an assassination attempt against a Sikh separatist leader on its soil by an Indian man, Canada's Justin Trudeau has chimed in with a response.

Amid claims made by the US government that it foiled an assassination attempt against a Sikh separatist leader on its soil by an Indian man, Canada's Justin Trudeau has chimed in with a response. The Canadian prime minister urged India to take Ottawa's allegations seriously, referring to the murder of another separatist leader, Hardeep Singh Nijjar in Vancouver, earlier this year. India and Canada have been in a diplomatic standoff ever since Trudeau addressed the parliament and said his government had 'credible allegations' that New Delhi was involved in the killing of the Khalistani separatist. "The news coming out of the United States further underscores what we've been talking about from the very beginning, which is that India needs to take this seriously," Trudeau told reporters in Ottawa. "The Indian government needs to work with us to ensure that we're getting to the bottom of this," he added. Notably, Trudeau had remained quiet on the issue for some time but hours after US Justice Department on Wednesday (Nov 29) said it was charging a 52-year-old Indian man for a plot to assassinate Khalistani separatist and leader of the banned Sikhs For Justice (SFJ) outfit Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, the liberal Canadian PM came up with a statement. The Justice Department said the Indian man, identified as Nikhil Gupta, arrested by Czech authorities in June, had worked with an Indian government employee. "The defendant conspired from India to assassinate, right here in New York City, a US citizen of Indian origin who has publicly advocated for the establishment of a sovereign state for Sikhs," Damian Williams, the top federal prosecutor in Manhattan, said in a statement. Watch | Canadian minister dodges direct question on Nijjar killing evidence Ottawa yet to submit proof After Trudeau's allegations concerning Nijjar, diplomatic animosity reached a tipping point between the two nations, with a series of mutual expulsions of diplomats taking place. New Delhi was the first to temporarily suspend certain visa services which put Ottawa in a fix. However, despite the allegations, the Canadian government is yet to present proof to back up its allegations. Also read | US charges Indian national with conspiracy to assassinate Khalistani separatist Pannun Nijjar, the 45-year-old Khalistan Tiger Force (KTF) chief was shot dead on June 18 by two unidentified men in the parking lot of Guru Nanak Gurdwara Sahib in Surrey, Canada. He had moved to Canada in the late 1990s and was declared a designated terrorist by India in 2020. (With inputs from agencies)

Piggybacking on USA's allegations, Trudeau urges India to take Canada's claims seriously

New Delhi, on Thursday (Nov 30) reiterated that it will be guided by the results of a high-level panel set up as the United States charged an Indian national with conspiring to assassinate Sikhs for Justice (SFJ) chief Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, who has been designated as a terrorist in India.&nbsp;

During a press conference, Arindam Bagchi, spokesperson for India’s Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), called linking of 52-year-old Nikhil Gupta, who has been accused of orchestrating the attempted murder of Pannun, with an Indian government employee&nbsp;a “matter of concern.”

“The nexus between organised crime, trafficking, gunrunning and extremists at an international level is a serious issue for the law enforcement agencies and organisations to consider and it is for that reason that a high-level inquiry committee has been constituted and we will be guided by its results,” said the MEA spokesperson, in response to the question about the case.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-charges-indian-national-with-conspiracy-to-assassinate-sikh-separatist-664387">US charges Indian national with conspiracy to assassinate Khalistani separatist Pannun</a>

He also called the issue a “matter of concern” and “contrary to government policy.”&nbsp;

<h2>Indian national charged by US</h2>

The statement by the MEA comes a day after the 52-year-old was charged with conspiring to assassinate Khalistani terrorist Pannun, who says he is a dual citizen of the US and Canada, on American soil.&nbsp;

The Financial Times, citing anonymous sources, earlier this month reported that US authorities had thwarted a plot to assassinate Pannun and issued a “warning” to the Indian government over concerns it was linked to the plot.

Following the allegations, Bagchi said the Indian government set up a high-level inquiry committee on November 18 to look into “all the relevant aspects” of the matter. “The Government of India will take necessary follow-up action based on the findings of the Enquiry Committee,” he added.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/sfjs-pannun-takes-a-u-turn-says-never-claimed-to-bomb-air-india-only-boycott-663929">SFJ's Pannun takes a u-turn, says never claimed to ‘bomb’ Air India, only called for ‘boycott’</a>

Gupta was arrested by Czech authorities in June and is awaiting extradition. “The defendant conspired from India to assassinate, right here in New York City, a US&nbsp;citizen of Indian origin who has publicly advocated for the establishment of a sovereign state for Sikhs,” said Damian Williams federal prosecutor in Manhattan.&nbsp;

While prosecutors did not name the target of Gupta’s alleged plot, they described him as a vocal critic of the Indian government who leads a US-based organisation that advocates for the secession of India’s Punjab state.&nbsp;

<h2>How did Gupta agree&nbsp;to the assassination plot?</h2>

A report by news agency PTI citing the superseding indictment unsealed Wednesday (Nov 29) said that the 52-year-old agreed to the plot after being assured that a criminal case against him in the Indian state of Gujarat would be dismissed.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/piggybacking-on-usas-allegations-trudeau-urges-india-to-take-canadas-claims-seriously-664458">Piggybacking on USA's allegations, Trudeau urges India to take Canada's claims seriously</a>

The prosecutors in the indictment also outline how Gupta agreed to the plot saying that it was following a “series of telephonic and electronic communications” between an Indian official only identified as “CC-1” over encrypted applications.&nbsp;

“CC-1 asked Gupta to arrange the murder of the Victim in exchange for CC-1’s assistance in securing the dismissal of a criminal case against Gupta in India,” the indictment, as per PTI, said.&nbsp;

It added, “In addition to their electronic communications, Gupta also met CC-1 in person in New Delhi in furtherance of the plot.”&nbsp;

The planning was said to have taken place in May and following CC-1’s “assurances, GUPTA pressed forward to arrange the murder,” the indictment said.

(With inputs from agencies)

New Delhi, on Thursday (Nov 30) reiterated that it will be guided by the results of a high-level panel set up as the United States charged an Indian national with conspiring to assassinate Sikhs for Justice (SFJ) chief Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, who has been designated as a terrorist in India.

New Delhi, on Thursday (Nov 30) reiterated that it will be guided by the results of a high-level panel set up as the United States charged an Indian national with conspiring to assassinate Sikhs for Justice (SFJ) chief Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, who has been designated as a terrorist in India. During a press conference, Arindam Bagchi, spokesperson for India’s Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), called linking of 52-year-old Nikhil Gupta, who has been accused of orchestrating the attempted murder of Pannun, with an Indian government employee a “matter of concern.” “The nexus between organised crime, trafficking, gunrunning and extremists at an international level is a serious issue for the law enforcement agencies and organisations to consider and it is for that reason that a high-level inquiry committee has been constituted and we will be guided by its results,” said the MEA spokesperson, in response to the question about the case. ALSO READ | US charges Indian national with conspiracy to assassinate Khalistani separatist Pannun He also called the issue a “matter of concern” and “contrary to government policy.” Indian national charged by US The statement by the MEA comes a day after the 52-year-old was charged with conspiring to assassinate Khalistani terrorist Pannun, who says he is a dual citizen of the US and Canada, on American soil. The Financial Times, citing anonymous sources, earlier this month reported that US authorities had thwarted a plot to assassinate Pannun and issued a “warning” to the Indian government over concerns it was linked to the plot. Following the allegations, Bagchi said the Indian government set up a high-level inquiry committee on November 18 to look into “all the relevant aspects” of the matter. “The Government of India will take necessary follow-up action based on the findings of the Enquiry Committee,” he added. ALSO READ | SFJ's Pannun takes a u-turn, says never claimed to ‘bomb’ Air India, only called for ‘boycott’ Gupta was arrested by Czech authorities in June and is awaiting extradition. “The defendant conspired from India to assassinate, right here in New York City, a US citizen of Indian origin who has publicly advocated for the establishment of a sovereign state for Sikhs,” said Damian Williams federal prosecutor in Manhattan. While prosecutors did not name the target of Gupta’s alleged plot, they described him as a vocal critic of the Indian government who leads a US-based organisation that advocates for the secession of India’s Punjab state. How did Gupta agree to the assassination plot? A report by news agency PTI citing the superseding indictment unsealed Wednesday (Nov 29) said that the 52-year-old agreed to the plot after being assured that a criminal case against him in the Indian state of Gujarat would be dismissed. ALSO READ | Piggybacking on USA's allegations, Trudeau urges India to take Canada's claims seriously The prosecutors in the indictment also outline how Gupta agreed to the plot saying that it was following a “series of telephonic and electronic communications” between an Indian official only identified as “CC-1” over encrypted applications. “CC-1 asked Gupta to arrange the murder of the Victim in exchange for CC-1’s assistance in securing the dismissal of a criminal case against Gupta in India,” the indictment, as per PTI, said. It added, “In addition to their electronic communications, Gupta also met CC-1 in person in New Delhi in furtherance of the plot.” The planning was said to have taken place in May and following CC-1’s “assurances, GUPTA pressed forward to arrange the murder,” the indictment said. (With inputs from agencies)

India says high-level panel to look into allegations after US charges Indian in 'plot' to kill SFJ's Pannun

Placing the onus for his protection on the Biden administration, Sikhs for Justice chief Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, who has been designated as a terrorist in India, alleged that the Indian government wants to kill him because he is running the global Khalistan referendum voting campaign.

“It is a challenge to American sovereignty. It is a threat to freedom of speech and democracy in America itself. But I will let US authorities speak more on this,” Pannun said, in an interview to TIME.&nbsp;

The United States had last week shared with India inputs related to the nexus between terrorists, gun runners and organised criminals which relevant departments were examining after it was reported by the Financial Times that a plot to kill Pannun on US soil was thwarted by American authorities.&nbsp;

Speaking about whether he has angered Indian officials by warning Sikhs not to fly on Air India since it would be “life-threatening”, Pannun in the interview said, "I was saying ‘boycott’ Air India, but the whole Indian narrative shifted to ‘bomb’ Air India. Somebody has to be a zombie to not differentiate between boycotting and bombing.”

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-taking-inputs-shared-by-us-related-to-terrorists-nexus-seriously-bagchi-661637">India reacts to western media reports of US intel on Pannun's assassination&nbsp;plot</a>

Earlier this month, Pannun had faced charges of terrorism and conspiracy charges for posting the video through which he threatened people against boarding Air India.&nbsp;

<h2>‘They cannot afford me to be alive’</h2>

In the interview with TIME, Pannun said, “So they cannot afford for me to be alive as I have achieved a narrative. I'm able to educate, and peacefully and democratically challenge India's narrative of terror and terrorism. There are reports from Human Rights Watch, Amnesty International, the US Department of State in 1994, and other agencies about what transpired between 1984 to 1995. But we haven’t had a peaceful and democratic resolution to the contentious issue that has never been asked since 1950: should Punjab be an independent country? It was never asked of the people of Punjab in 1947, nor has it ever been put up on a ballot.”

“We are going to open this question up through the Khalistan referendum voter registration in Punjab on January 26, 2024,” he added.&nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;Nijjar's Killing : 'Conspiracy to kill Sikh separatist Pannun thwarted' , says the White House

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Speaking about the intelligence reports that suggested Biden holding a discussion with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi during the G20 Summit about potential role of India in an assassination plot which was targeting him, Pannun said, “I will say that on this particular question, and this is my official statement, the Indian government and the Modi regime want to kill me, they want to eliminate me for running the global Khalistan referendum voting campaign." 
 
“I have seen how the Indian government wanted to eliminate civil disobedience during Operation Blue Star. So I decided I was going to use international laws to hold individuals accountable," he said.

This came two months after Canada said they had “credible” allegations which linked Indian agents to the killing of another Sikh separatist leader Hardeep Singh Nijjar in Vancouver. The charges were denied by New Delhi and the issue further escalated diplomatic tensions between the two nations.

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Placing the onus for his protection on the Biden administration, Sikhs for Justice chief Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, who has been designated as a terrorist in India, alleged that the Indian government wants to kill him because he is running the global Khalistan referendum voting campaign.

Placing the onus for his protection on the Biden administration, Sikhs for Justice chief Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, who has been designated as a terrorist in India, alleged that the Indian government wants to kill him because he is running the global Khalistan referendum voting campaign. “It is a challenge to American sovereignty. It is a threat to freedom of speech and democracy in America itself. But I will let US authorities speak more on this,” Pannun said, in an interview to TIME. The United States had last week shared with India inputs related to the nexus between terrorists, gun runners and organised criminals which relevant departments were examining after it was reported by the Financial Times that a plot to kill Pannun on US soil was thwarted by American authorities. Speaking about whether he has angered Indian officials by warning Sikhs not to fly on Air India since it would be “life-threatening”, Pannun in the interview said, "I was saying ‘boycott’ Air India, but the whole Indian narrative shifted to ‘bomb’ Air India. Somebody has to be a zombie to not differentiate between boycotting and bombing.” Also read: India reacts to western media reports of US intel on Pannun's assassination plot Earlier this month, Pannun had faced charges of terrorism and conspiracy charges for posting the video through which he threatened people against boarding Air India. ‘They cannot afford me to be alive’ In the interview with TIME, Pannun said, “So they cannot afford for me to be alive as I have achieved a narrative. I'm able to educate, and peacefully and democratically challenge India's narrative of terror and terrorism. There are reports from Human Rights Watch, Amnesty International, the US Department of State in 1994, and other agencies about what transpired between 1984 to 1995. But we haven’t had a peaceful and democratic resolution to the contentious issue that has never been asked since 1950: should Punjab be an independent country? It was never asked of the people of Punjab in 1947, nor has it ever been put up on a ballot.” “We are going to open this question up through the Khalistan referendum voter registration in Punjab on January 26, 2024,” he added. Watch: Nijjar's Killing : 'Conspiracy to kill Sikh separatist Pannun thwarted' , says the White House Speaking about the intelligence reports that suggested Biden holding a discussion with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi during the G20 Summit about potential role of India in an assassination plot which was targeting him, Pannun said, “I will say that on this particular question, and this is my official statement, the Indian government and the Modi regime want to kill me, they want to eliminate me for running the global Khalistan referendum voting campaign." “I have seen how the Indian government wanted to eliminate civil disobedience during Operation Blue Star. So I decided I was going to use international laws to hold individuals accountable," he said. This came two months after Canada said they had “credible” allegations which linked Indian agents to the killing of another Sikh separatist leader Hardeep Singh Nijjar in Vancouver. The charges were denied by New Delhi and the issue further escalated diplomatic tensions between the two nations. (With inputs from agencies)

SFJ's Pannun takes a u-turn, says never claimed to ‘bomb’ Air India, only called for ‘boycott’

Against the backdrop of Western media reports over alleged plans to kill Khalistani terrorist Gurpatwant Singh Pannun and Intel shared with India by the US, the MEA has responded. New Delhi confirmed having received US inputs on the "nexus between organized criminals, gun runners, terrorists and others" and said that it takes "such inputs seriously since it impinges on our own national security interests as well'.&nbsp;

In response to media queries on reports of discussions between India and US on security matters, spokesperson for Minister of External Affairs (MEA) Arindam Bagchi in a press release said, "During the course of recent discussions on India-US security cooperation, the US side shared some inputs pertaining to nexus between organised criminals, gun runners, terrorists, and others. The inputs are a cause of concern for both countries and they decided to take necessary follow up action."

This comes after a Financial Times report while quoting multiple sources aware of the matter reported that US thwarted a plot to assassinate Khalistani terrorist Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, who holds dual citizenship - American and Canadian.

The report also claimed that Washington raised this issued with the Indian government and warned that it has apprehensions over India's involvement in the alleged conspiracy.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-taking-inputs-shared-by-us-related-to-terrorists-nexus-seriously-bagchi-661637">India taking inputs shared by US related to terrorists' nexus 'seriously'</a>

Bagchi also added that "issues in the context of US inputs are already being examined by relevant departments."&nbsp;

Pannun earlier shocked the nation with his grave threats to Air India passengers, leaving open the scars of the 1985 Kanishka bombings.&nbsp;

However, the report while shedding light on the plot did not provide any clarity if it "did not say whether the protest to New Delhi led the plotters to abandon their plan, or whether the FBI intervened and foiled a scheme already in motion."

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/g20-virtual-summit-pm-modi-backs-ai-boom-but-cautions-society-over-misuse-of-tech-like-deepfake-661575">G20 Virtual Summit: PM Modi backs AI boom but cautions society on its misuse like deepfakes</a>

The report was solely backed by information from FT sources who sought anonymity while sharing the intel as the case at hand is highly sensitive.&nbsp;

Although the exact date was not revealed, the report claimed that Washington shared the intel related to Pannun with its allies after the Vancouver killing of another India-designated Khalistani terrorist and Canadian Hardeep Singh Nijjar on June 18, when he was fatally shot outside a gurudwara.&nbsp;

As far as flagging the Pannun assassination plot to the Indian government is concerned, the report while quoting an anonymous source said the warning was issued to New Delhi following Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's state visit to Washington which took place from June 21 to 24.&nbsp;

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Canada’s Prime Minister Justin Trudeau in September levelled serious allegations against India without giving any evidence. Trudeau said that there were “credible allegations” that the Indian government is involved in the Nijjar's killing, a charge which New Delhi not only rubbished but said were utterly "baseless."&nbsp;

<h2>Sealed indictment against an accused in plot?&nbsp;</h2>

Other than the alleged diplomatic exchange over the plot to kill Pannun between the US and India, the report goes on to say that US federal prosecutors have "filed a sealed indictment against at least one alleged perpetrator of the plot in a New York district court."&nbsp;

The report made these claims citing people who are aware of the legal case.&nbsp;

Giving further details on the alleged indictment, the Financial Times report said that the US justice department is now "debating whether to unseal the indictment and make the allegations public or wait until Canada finishes its investigation into Nijjar’s murder."&nbsp;

The people in knowledge of the proceedings and quoted by FT said that one individual who was charged in the alleged indictment is believed to have left the US.&nbsp;

However, there have been no official statement from US or the Justice Department over the matter.&nbsp;

Moreover, the US National Security Council told FT that US does “not comment on ongoing law enforcement matters or private diplomatic discussions with our partners."&nbsp;

“Upholding the safety and security of US citizens is paramount," the NSC reportedly added.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Against the backdrop of Western media reports over alleged plans to kill Khalistani terrorist Gurpatwant Singh Pannun and Intel shared with India by the US, the MEA has responded.

Against the backdrop of Western media reports over alleged plans to kill Khalistani terrorist Gurpatwant Singh Pannun and Intel shared with India by the US, the MEA has responded. New Delhi confirmed having received US inputs on the "nexus between organized criminals, gun runners, terrorists and others" and said that it takes "such inputs seriously since it impinges on our own national security interests as well'. In response to media queries on reports of discussions between India and US on security matters, spokesperson for Minister of External Affairs (MEA) Arindam Bagchi in a press release said, "During the course of recent discussions on India-US security cooperation, the US side shared some inputs pertaining to nexus between organised criminals, gun runners, terrorists, and others. The inputs are a cause of concern for both countries and they decided to take necessary follow up action." This comes after a Financial Times report while quoting multiple sources aware of the matter reported that US thwarted a plot to assassinate Khalistani terrorist Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, who holds dual citizenship - American and Canadian. The report also claimed that Washington raised this issued with the Indian government and warned that it has apprehensions over India's involvement in the alleged conspiracy. Also Read | India taking inputs shared by US related to terrorists' nexus 'seriously' Bagchi also added that "issues in the context of US inputs are already being examined by relevant departments." Pannun earlier shocked the nation with his grave threats to Air India passengers, leaving open the scars of the 1985 Kanishka bombings. However, the report while shedding light on the plot did not provide any clarity if it "did not say whether the protest to New Delhi led the plotters to abandon their plan, or whether the FBI intervened and foiled a scheme already in motion." Also Read | G20 Virtual Summit: PM Modi backs AI boom but cautions society on its misuse like deepfakes The report was solely backed by information from FT sources who sought anonymity while sharing the intel as the case at hand is highly sensitive. Although the exact date was not revealed, the report claimed that Washington shared the intel related to Pannun with its allies after the Vancouver killing of another India-designated Khalistani terrorist and Canadian Hardeep Singh Nijjar on June 18, when he was fatally shot outside a gurudwara. As far as flagging the Pannun assassination plot to the Indian government is concerned, the report while quoting an anonymous source said the warning was issued to New Delhi following Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's state visit to Washington which took place from June 21 to 24. Watch | Hamas shares similar goals with Russia's Putin, says Joe Biden × Canada’s Prime Minister Justin Trudeau in September levelled serious allegations against India without giving any evidence. Trudeau said that there were “credible allegations” that the Indian government is involved in the Nijjar's killing, a charge which New Delhi not only rubbished but said were utterly "baseless." Sealed indictment against an accused in plot? Other than the alleged diplomatic exchange over the plot to kill Pannun between the US and India, the report goes on to say that US federal prosecutors have "filed a sealed indictment against at least one alleged perpetrator of the plot in a New York district court." The report made these claims citing people who are aware of the legal case. Giving further details on the alleged indictment, the Financial Times report said that the US justice department is now "debating whether to unseal the indictment and make the allegations public or wait until Canada finishes its investigation into Nijjar’s murder." The people in knowledge of the proceedings and quoted by FT said that one individual who was charged in the alleged indictment is believed to have left the US. However, there have been no official statement from US or the Justice Department over the matter. Moreover, the US National Security Council told FT that US does “not comment on ongoing law enforcement matters or private diplomatic discussions with our partners." “Upholding the safety and security of US citizens is paramount," the NSC reportedly added. (With inputs from agencies)

India reacts to western media reports of US intel on Pannun's assassination plot

India’s premier&nbsp;investigative agency, the NIA, has booked Khalistani ‘listed terrorist’ Gurpatwant Singh Pannun over a video where he threatened Air India passengers.

The founder of Sikhs for Justice has been booked under sections 120B (criminal conspiracy), 153A (promoting enmity between different groups on grounds of religion, race, place of birth, residence, language, etc) and 506 (criminal intimidation) of the IPC.

He has also been charged under sections 10 (member of an unlawful association), 13 (for taking part in or committing or advocating any unlawful activity), 16 (terrorist act), 17 (funding terrorist act), 18 (conspiring or attempting to commit, or advocating, abetting, advising or inciting a terrorist act), 18B (for recruiting of any person or persons for terrorist act) &amp; 20 (for being a member of a terrorist gang or a terrorist organization) of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, 1967.

<h2>Shared threatening video on Nov 4</h2>

In a video shared online on Nov 4, Pannun had asked the Sikh community not to take the Indian carrier flight on the said date, claiming that their lives would be in danger if they did so.

"We are asking the Sikh people not to fly via Air India. From November 19, there will be a global blockade. Air India won't be allowed to operate. Sikh people, don't travel by Air India after November 19. Your life can be in danger," Pannun said.

IGIA is located in New Delhi, and one of the world’s busiest airports.

On November 19 (Sunday), India played Australia in the World Cup final at Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad, Gujarat.

He had also vowed to rename the airport after his plan to secede Punjab from India succeeds.

"The name of this airport will be Shahid Beant Singh, Shahid Satwant Singh Khalistan airport, when Punjab will be liberated," he added.

<h2>Pannun's threat spurred high alert&nbsp;</h2>

Pannun’s assertions and threats have triggered a high alert as well as investigations by security forces in Canada, India, and certain other countries where Air India flies, the NIA said in a statement.

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“The latest threat is in line with the same narrative, which Pannun has actively promoted in the past by threatening and&nbsp;attempting to disrupt essential transportation network systems, including the Railways, as well as Thermal Power Plants in India", it added.

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Pannun's SFJ was banned by the Indian home ministry on July 10 for its&nbsp;‘unlawful association’ under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA). On July 1, 2020, Pannun was listed as an ‘individual terrorist’ by the Indian government. 
&nbsp;

India’s premier investigative agency, the NIA, has booked Khalistani ‘listed terrorist’ Gurpatwant Singh Pannun over a video where he threatened Air India passengers.

India’s premier investigative agency, the NIA, has booked Khalistani ‘listed terrorist’ Gurpatwant Singh Pannun over a video where he threatened Air India passengers. The founder of Sikhs for Justice has been booked under sections 120B (criminal conspiracy), 153A (promoting enmity between different groups on grounds of religion, race, place of birth, residence, language, etc) and 506 (criminal intimidation) of the IPC. He has also been charged under sections 10 (member of an unlawful association), 13 (for taking part in or committing or advocating any unlawful activity), 16 (terrorist act), 17 (funding terrorist act), 18 (conspiring or attempting to commit, or advocating, abetting, advising or inciting a terrorist act), 18B (for recruiting of any person or persons for terrorist act) & 20 (for being a member of a terrorist gang or a terrorist organization) of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, 1967. Shared threatening video on Nov 4 In a video shared online on Nov 4, Pannun had asked the Sikh community not to take the Indian carrier flight on the said date, claiming that their lives would be in danger if they did so. "We are asking the Sikh people not to fly via Air India. From November 19, there will be a global blockade. Air India won't be allowed to operate. Sikh people, don't travel by Air India after November 19. Your life can be in danger," Pannun said. IGIA is located in New Delhi, and one of the world’s busiest airports. On November 19 (Sunday), India played Australia in the World Cup final at Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad, Gujarat. He had also vowed to rename the airport after his plan to secede Punjab from India succeeds. "The name of this airport will be Shahid Beant Singh, Shahid Satwant Singh Khalistan airport, when Punjab will be liberated," he added. Pannun's threat spurred high alert Pannun’s assertions and threats have triggered a high alert as well as investigations by security forces in Canada, India, and certain other countries where Air India flies, the NIA said in a statement. Also read | Who is Abraham Ungar—Israeli businessman whose vessel was hijacked by Houthis? “The latest threat is in line with the same narrative, which Pannun has actively promoted in the past by threatening and attempting to disrupt essential transportation network systems, including the Railways, as well as Thermal Power Plants in India", it added. Also read | Royal Navy’s sub averts tragedy, 140 crew on board escape death: Report Pannun's SFJ was banned by the Indian home ministry on July 10 for its ‘unlawful association’ under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA). On July 1, 2020, Pannun was listed as an ‘individual terrorist’ by the Indian government.

NIA books Khalistani terrorist Gurpatwant Singh Pannun over threats to Air India passengers

India will raise the grave threats, issued by Canada-based Khalistani terrorist outfit Sikhs For Justice's chief Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, with Canada.&nbsp;In an unsettling and alarming video message, Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, the head of Canada-based Khalistani terrorist outfit, has issued a chilling threat to the Indian government and Air India while&nbsp;urging Sikhs to abstain from flying on Air India planes on and after November 19 citing a potential threat&nbsp;to their lives. He further threatened that the final match of the ‘World Terror Cup’ will be played on Nov 19.

While responding to a question from the Hindustan Times, India’s High Commissioner to Ottawa Sanjay Kumar Verma said, “We shall take up the threat against Air India flights originating from and terminating in Canada, with the concerned Canadian authorities.”

The report said that India will seek for heightened security for Air India flights.&nbsp;

“We have studied the contents of the video, which is in clear violation of Chicago Convention, which lays out a framework for international civil aviation operations," the envoy added.&nbsp;

Verma, as per HT, also pointed out that the bilateral civil aviation agreement between both nations consists of provisions that can be invoked to tackle these threats.&nbsp;

WION also sought a response from the Canadian Ministry of Foreign Affairs if they have taken note of Pannun's threats to blow up an AI flight on Nov 19.

Acknowledging the question asked by WION, "Is the Canadian government planning any action on this threat?" the authorities responded by saying they would be looking into the matter.&nbsp;However, as of now, specific details are still awaited.&nbsp;

Gurpatwant Singh Pannun had said, "We are asking Sikhs not to fly AI on 19th November. There will be a global blockade, and AI will not be allowed to fly anywhere across the world on 19th November. Sikhs, you do not travel by AI after the 19th. It can be life-threatening." 
 
The warning is alarming since Khalistani terrorists had bombed Air India's Boeing 747 'Kanishka' flight from Toronto to India in 1985, killing 329 passengers, including 268 Canadian citizens of Indian origin and 24 Indians.

<h2>Threat for airport closure&nbsp;</h2>

Pannun also issued a warning to the Government of India, saying, "The Indira Gandhi International Airport should remain closed on the 19th of November."

“It is the same day on which the final match of the World Terror Cup will be played. It will be shown to the world that a genocide of Sikhs happened in India and India did it. When we will liberate Punjab, the name of these airports will be Shahid Beant Singh and Shahid Satwant Singh Airport,” he added.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/australias-albanese-in-china-seeks-dialogue-cooperation-655246">Australia's Albanese, in China, seeks dialogue, cooperation</a>

It is worth noting that November 19 marks the birth anniversary of the late Indian Prime Minister Indira Gandhi who was assassinated during the protests against Operation Bluestar in Golden Temple in 1984.

This comes months after the horrifying incident in Canada where a tableau celebrated the assassination of Indira Gandhi by her Sikh bodyguards was paraded in Brampton on June 4. 
 
The Canada government has not yet reacted or taken any action on the threat by Pannun.&nbsp;

Pannun has made such threats earlier as well. About a month ago, Pannun, who is a designated terrorist, threatened the Hindus living in Canada to leave the country and announced a fresh referendum asking if the Indian high commissioner was responsible for the assassination of Khalistani terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/cannot-allow-tents-on-streets-as-lifestyle-choice-uk-interior-minister-to-propose-new-laws-655217">Cannot allow tents on streets as 'lifestyle choice': UK Interior Minister to propose new laws</a>

It was days after Canadian PM Justin Trudeau made unproved claims that the Indian government is responsible for the killing of Khalistani Terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar. Canada has so far failed to provide any concrete evidence to back its "absurd" claims, something which even the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/where-is-the-evidence-indian-envoy-to-canada-amid-allegations-over-nijjars-killing-diplomatic-standoff-655237">Indian envoy to Canada Sanjay Kumar Verma pointed out</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<h2>Tragic history of Kanishka bombing</h2>

The direct warning given by Pannun in a video message brought fresh the sombre memories of&nbsp;the 1985 bombing of Air India's Boeing 747 'Kanishka.' The Kanishka bombing, carried out by Khalistani terrorists, remains a tragic chapter in aviation history.

A bomb concealed in a suitcase led to the explosion aboard Air India's flight from Toronto to India via London in 1985, causing the plane to crash into the sea off the Irish coast.

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The devastating incident claimed the lives of 329 passengers, including 268 Canadian citizens of Indian origin and 24 Indians.

The person behind this catastrophic incident was identified as Talwinder Singh Parmar, then chief of Babbar Khalsa. Parmar. He was allegedly provided a safe haven by the Canadian government led by Pierre Trudeau, who was the father of the current Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau.

(With inputs from agencies)

India will raise the grave threats, issued by Canada-based Khalistani terrorist outfit Sikhs For Justice's chief Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, with Canada. In an unsettling and alarming video message, Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, the head of Canada-based Khalistani terrorist outfit, has issued a chilling threat to the Indian government and Air India while urging Sikhs to abstain from flying on Air India planes on and after November 19 citing a potential threat to their lives.

India will raise the grave threats, issued by Canada-based Khalistani terrorist outfit Sikhs For Justice's chief Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, with Canada. In an unsettling and alarming video message, Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, the head of Canada-based Khalistani terrorist outfit, has issued a chilling threat to the Indian government and Air India while urging Sikhs to abstain from flying on Air India planes on and after November 19 citing a potential threat to their lives. He further threatened that the final match of the ‘World Terror Cup’ will be played on Nov 19. While responding to a question from the Hindustan Times, India’s High Commissioner to Ottawa Sanjay Kumar Verma said, “We shall take up the threat against Air India flights originating from and terminating in Canada, with the concerned Canadian authorities.” The report said that India will seek for heightened security for Air India flights. “We have studied the contents of the video, which is in clear violation of Chicago Convention, which lays out a framework for international civil aviation operations," the envoy added. Verma, as per HT, also pointed out that the bilateral civil aviation agreement between both nations consists of provisions that can be invoked to tackle these threats. WION also sought a response from the Canadian Ministry of Foreign Affairs if they have taken note of Pannun's threats to blow up an AI flight on Nov 19. Acknowledging the question asked by WION, "Is the Canadian government planning any action on this threat?" the authorities responded by saying they would be looking into the matter. However, as of now, specific details are still awaited. Gurpatwant Singh Pannun had said, "We are asking Sikhs not to fly AI on 19th November. There will be a global blockade, and AI will not be allowed to fly anywhere across the world on 19th November. Sikhs, you do not travel by AI after the 19th. It can be life-threatening." The warning is alarming since Khalistani terrorists had bombed Air India's Boeing 747 'Kanishka' flight from Toronto to India in 1985, killing 329 passengers, including 268 Canadian citizens of Indian origin and 24 Indians. Threat for airport closure Pannun also issued a warning to the Government of India, saying, "The Indira Gandhi International Airport should remain closed on the 19th of November." “It is the same day on which the final match of the World Terror Cup will be played. It will be shown to the world that a genocide of Sikhs happened in India and India did it. When we will liberate Punjab, the name of these airports will be Shahid Beant Singh and Shahid Satwant Singh Airport,” he added. Also Read | Australia's Albanese, in China, seeks dialogue, cooperation It is worth noting that November 19 marks the birth anniversary of the late Indian Prime Minister Indira Gandhi who was assassinated during the protests against Operation Bluestar in Golden Temple in 1984. This comes months after the horrifying incident in Canada where a tableau celebrated the assassination of Indira Gandhi by her Sikh bodyguards was paraded in Brampton on June 4. The Canada government has not yet reacted or taken any action on the threat by Pannun. Pannun has made such threats earlier as well. About a month ago, Pannun, who is a designated terrorist, threatened the Hindus living in Canada to leave the country and announced a fresh referendum asking if the Indian high commissioner was responsible for the assassination of Khalistani terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar. Also Read | Cannot allow tents on streets as 'lifestyle choice': UK Interior Minister to propose new laws It was days after Canadian PM Justin Trudeau made unproved claims that the Indian government is responsible for the killing of Khalistani Terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar. Canada has so far failed to provide any concrete evidence to back its "absurd" claims, something which even the Indian envoy to Canada Sanjay Kumar Verma pointed out. Tragic history of Kanishka bombing The direct warning given by Pannun in a video message brought fresh the sombre memories of the 1985 bombing of Air India's Boeing 747 'Kanishka.' The Kanishka bombing, carried out by Khalistani terrorists, remains a tragic chapter in aviation history. A bomb concealed in a suitcase led to the explosion aboard Air India's flight from Toronto to India via London in 1985, causing the plane to crash into the sea off the Irish coast. Watch | Myanmar junta loses control of strategic town on China border × The devastating incident claimed the lives of 329 passengers, including 268 Canadian citizens of Indian origin and 24 Indians. The person behind this catastrophic incident was identified as Talwinder Singh Parmar, then chief of Babbar Khalsa. Parmar. He was allegedly provided a safe haven by the Canadian government led by Pierre Trudeau, who was the father of the current Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau. (With inputs from agencies)

India to raise Khalistani threats issue with Canada, seek heightened security for Air India flights

India's National Investigation Agency has confiscated the properties of banned Sikhs for Justice (SFJ) chief&nbsp;Gurpatwant Singh Pannun in Amritsar and Chandigarh, media reports said. The confiscated properties include 46 kanal of agricultural property in the ancestral village Khankot, located on the outskirts of Amritsar district.

Another property that is confiscated by India's law enforcement agency is his house no. 2033 in Sector 15-C, Chandigarh. After confiscation, Pannun lost rights to the property and the property now belongs to the government.&nbsp;In 2020, his properties were attached, which meant he could not sell them.

The central agency also pasted a property confiscation notice outside a house belonging to slain Khalistani leader Hardeep Singh Nijjar, in Bharsingh Pura village of Jalandhar district.&nbsp;

Gurpatwant Singh Pannun is a designated terrorist in India. Earlier, after Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau insinuated connections between the Indian government and the killing of Hardeep Singh Nijjar, Pannun threatened the Hindus living in Canada to leave the country and announced a fresh referendum and vote asking if the Indian high commissioner was responsible for the assassination of the Khalistani terrorist.

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A diplomatic row was sparked between India and Canada after Trudeau accused 'agents of the Indian government' of orchestrating the attack. 
 
"Indo-Canadian Hindus, you have repudiated your allegiance to Canada and the Canadian constitution. Your destination is India. Leave Canada, and go to India. Pro-Khalistan Sikhs have always been loyal to Canada. They have always sided with Canada and uphold the laws and constitution," Pannun was heard saying in the 45-second video.

"On October 29, the shaheed (martyr) Nijjar referendum is happening in Vancouver. I urge all Canadian Sikhs to be in Vancouver on October 29, to vote on: Is the Indian High Commissioner Responsible for the assassination of Hardeep Singh Nijjar," he said.&nbsp;

Earlier, his SFJ outfit vowed to hold protests and shut down Indian consulate offices in Canada in the coming week, Canadian media outlet Global News reported. &nbsp;

“We will not allow the Indian consulates to function and we’re going to push the Canadian government to name the individuals who are responsible for assassinating and giving the orders to hit Nijjar,” Khalistani radical Gurpatwant Singh Pannun from Sikhs for Justice told the outlet.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/india-canada-row-bc-premier-accuses-trudeau-govt-of-withholding-information-on-nijjars-murder-638861">India-Canada row: BC Premier accuses Trudeau govt of withholding information on Nijjar’s murder</a>

“He has been assassinated outside the gurdwara — that was being done to give a very strong message to pro-Khalistan Sikhs that they will be hunted, even in the Western world," he added.&nbsp;

After Canada accused India and drew links with the killing of Nijjar, New Delhi lashed out at the Canadian government, rubbishing the claims and urging it to take action against anti-India activities ongoing in the country.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/canadas-unsubstantiated-allegations-on-india-638862">Canada's unsubstantiated allegations on India</a>

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"The High Commissioner of Canada to India was summoned and informed about the decision of the Government of India to expel a senior Canadian diplomat based in India. The concerned diplomat has been asked to leave India within the next five days," an official readout said.

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India's National Investigation Agency has confiscated the properties of banned Sikhs for Justice (SFJ) chief Gurpatwant Singh Pannun in Amritsar and Chandigarh, media reports said.

India's National Investigation Agency has confiscated the properties of banned Sikhs for Justice (SFJ) chief Gurpatwant Singh Pannun in Amritsar and Chandigarh, media reports said. The confiscated properties include 46 kanal of agricultural property in the ancestral village Khankot, located on the outskirts of Amritsar district. Another property that is confiscated by India's law enforcement agency is his house no. 2033 in Sector 15-C, Chandigarh. After confiscation, Pannun lost rights to the property and the property now belongs to the government. In 2020, his properties were attached, which meant he could not sell them. The central agency also pasted a property confiscation notice outside a house belonging to slain Khalistani leader Hardeep Singh Nijjar, in Bharsingh Pura village of Jalandhar district. Gurpatwant Singh Pannun is a designated terrorist in India. Earlier, after Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau insinuated connections between the Indian government and the killing of Hardeep Singh Nijjar, Pannun threatened the Hindus living in Canada to leave the country and announced a fresh referendum and vote asking if the Indian high commissioner was responsible for the assassination of the Khalistani terrorist. Also Read | Bob Menendez steps down as US Senate foreign relations chairman over bribery charges A diplomatic row was sparked between India and Canada after Trudeau accused 'agents of the Indian government' of orchestrating the attack. "Indo-Canadian Hindus, you have repudiated your allegiance to Canada and the Canadian constitution. Your destination is India. Leave Canada, and go to India. Pro-Khalistan Sikhs have always been loyal to Canada. They have always sided with Canada and uphold the laws and constitution," Pannun was heard saying in the 45-second video. "On October 29, the shaheed (martyr) Nijjar referendum is happening in Vancouver. I urge all Canadian Sikhs to be in Vancouver on October 29, to vote on: Is the Indian High Commissioner Responsible for the assassination of Hardeep Singh Nijjar," he said. Earlier, his SFJ outfit vowed to hold protests and shut down Indian consulate offices in Canada in the coming week, Canadian media outlet Global News reported. “We will not allow the Indian consulates to function and we’re going to push the Canadian government to name the individuals who are responsible for assassinating and giving the orders to hit Nijjar,” Khalistani radical Gurpatwant Singh Pannun from Sikhs for Justice told the outlet. Also Read | India-Canada row: BC Premier accuses Trudeau govt of withholding information on Nijjar’s murder “He has been assassinated outside the gurdwara — that was being done to give a very strong message to pro-Khalistan Sikhs that they will be hunted, even in the Western world," he added. After Canada accused India and drew links with the killing of Nijjar, New Delhi lashed out at the Canadian government, rubbishing the claims and urging it to take action against anti-India activities ongoing in the country. Watch | Canada's unsubstantiated allegations on India × "The High Commissioner of Canada to India was summoned and informed about the decision of the Government of India to expel a senior Canadian diplomat based in India. The concerned diplomat has been asked to leave India within the next five days," an official readout said. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. ×

NIA confiscates SFJ chief Gurpatwant Singh Pannu’s properties in Amritsar and Chandigarh

Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, a designated terrorist and leader of banned&nbsp;Sikhs for Justice (SFJ), has threatened the Hindus living in Canada to leave the country and announced a fresh referendum and vote asking if the Indian high commissioner was responsible for the assassination of&nbsp;Khalistani terrorist&nbsp;Hardeep Singh Nijjar.

In a video that is going viral on social media,&nbsp;Pannun said that they want to avenge Nijjar, whose death has sparked a diplomatic row between India and Canada after Prime Minister Justin Trudeau accused 'agents of the Indian government' of orchestrating the attack.

"Indo-Canadian Hindus, you have repudiated your allegiance to Canada and the Canadian constitution.&nbsp;Your destination is India. Leave Canada, and go to India. Pro-Khalistan Sikhs have always been loyal to Canada. They have always sided with Canada and uphold&nbsp;the laws and constitution," Pannun was heard saying in the&nbsp;45-second video.

"On October 29, the shaheed (martyr) Nijjar referendum is happening in Vancouver. I urge all Canadian Sikhs to be in Vancouver on October 29, to vote on: Is the Indian High Commissioner Responsible for the assassination of&nbsp;Hardeep Singh Nijjar," he said.&nbsp;

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Pannu is asking Canadian Hindus to leave Canada. 
 
Hey Hatemonger <a href="https://twitter.com/JustinTrudeau?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@JustinTrudeau</a> 
 
This is on you 
 
<a href="https://t.co/KSCkRcYrwg">pic.twitter.com/KSCkRcYrwg</a>
— Monica Verma (@TrulyMonica) <a href="https://twitter.com/TrulyMonica/status/1704183562633892166?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 19, 2023</a></blockquote>
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Earlier, his&nbsp;SFJ&nbsp;outfit vowed to hold protests and&nbsp;shut down Indian consulate offices in Canada in the coming week, Canadian media outlet Global News reported.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“We will not allow the Indian consulates to function and we’re going to push the Canadian government to name the individuals who are responsible for assassinating and giving the orders to hit Nijjar,” Khalistani radical Gurpatwant Singh Pannun from Sikhs for Justice told the outlet.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/canadian-pm-trudeau-briefs-us-uk-and-france-over-killing-of-khalistani-terrorist-nijjar-report-637476">Canadian PM Trudeau briefs US, UK and France over killing of Khalistani terrorist&nbsp;Nijjar: Report</a>

“He has been assassinated outside the gurdwara — that was being done to give a very strong message to pro-Khalistan Sikhs that they will be hunted, even in the Western world," he added.&nbsp;

After Canada accused India and drew links with the killing of&nbsp;Nijjar, New Delhi lashed out at the Canadian government, rubbishing the claims and urging it to take action against anti-India activities ongoing in the country.&nbsp;

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A death threat was issued to Indian ministers <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AmitShah?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AmitShah</a>, <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SJaishankar?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SJaishankar</a>, and several diplomats 
 
The man who made these threats is Sikhs for Justice (SFJ) spokesperson <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/GurpatwantSinghPannu?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#GurpatwantSinghPannu</a> 
 
Watch <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/DarkWorld?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#DarkWorld</a> with Harshit Sabarwal (<a href="https://twitter.com/B_Torg?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@B_Torg</a>) on WION<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Modigovt?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Modigovt</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SFJ?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SFJ</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Khalistan?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Khalistan</a> <a href="https://t.co/9mnCK76Rty">pic.twitter.com/9mnCK76Rty</a>
— WION (@WIONews) <a href="https://twitter.com/WIONews/status/1685660879776550912?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 30, 2023</a></blockquote>
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Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/explained-hardeep-singh-nijjars-murder-and-the-very-fraught-india-canada-ties-whats-the-future-637465">Hardeep Singh Nijjar's murder and the 'very fraught' India-Canada ties. What's the future?</a>

Canada expelled a top Indian diplomat after the country's Prime Minister Justin Trudeau made a speech levelling grave allegations against India.&nbsp;New Delhi, in a retaliatory move, also asked a senior Canadian diplomat to leave the country within the next five days.

"The High Commissioner of Canada to India was summoned today and informed about the decision of the Government of India to expel a senior Canadian diplomat based in India. The concerned diplomat has been asked to leave India within the next five days," an official readout said.

"The decision reflects Government of India’s growing concern at the interference of Canadian diplomats in our internal matters and their involvement in anti-India activities," it added.&nbsp;

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Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, a designated terrorist and leader of banned Sikhs for Justice (SFJ), has threatened the Hindus living in Canada to leave the country and announced a fresh referendum and vote asking if the Indian high commissioner was responsible for the assassination of Khalistani terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar.

Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, a designated terrorist and leader of banned Sikhs for Justice (SFJ), has threatened the Hindus living in Canada to leave the country and announced a fresh referendum and vote asking if the Indian high commissioner was responsible for the assassination of Khalistani terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar. In a video that is going viral on social media, Pannun said that they want to avenge Nijjar, whose death has sparked a diplomatic row between India and Canada after Prime Minister Justin Trudeau accused 'agents of the Indian government' of orchestrating the attack. "Indo-Canadian Hindus, you have repudiated your allegiance to Canada and the Canadian constitution. Your destination is India. Leave Canada, and go to India. Pro-Khalistan Sikhs have always been loyal to Canada. They have always sided with Canada and uphold the laws and constitution," Pannun was heard saying in the 45-second video. "On October 29, the shaheed (martyr) Nijjar referendum is happening in Vancouver. I urge all Canadian Sikhs to be in Vancouver on October 29, to vote on: Is the Indian High Commissioner Responsible for the assassination of Hardeep Singh Nijjar," he said. Pannu is asking Canadian Hindus to leave Canada. Hey Hatemonger @JustinTrudeau This is on you pic.twitter.com/KSCkRcYrwg — Monica Verma (@TrulyMonica) September 19, 2023 × Earlier, his SFJ outfit vowed to hold protests and shut down Indian consulate offices in Canada in the coming week, Canadian media outlet Global News reported. “We will not allow the Indian consulates to function and we’re going to push the Canadian government to name the individuals who are responsible for assassinating and giving the orders to hit Nijjar,” Khalistani radical Gurpatwant Singh Pannun from Sikhs for Justice told the outlet. Also Read | Canadian PM Trudeau briefs US, UK and France over killing of Khalistani terrorist Nijjar: Report “He has been assassinated outside the gurdwara — that was being done to give a very strong message to pro-Khalistan Sikhs that they will be hunted, even in the Western world," he added. After Canada accused India and drew links with the killing of Nijjar, New Delhi lashed out at the Canadian government, rubbishing the claims and urging it to take action against anti-India activities ongoing in the country. A death threat was issued to Indian ministers #AmitShah, #SJaishankar, and several diplomats The man who made these threats is Sikhs for Justice (SFJ) spokesperson #GurpatwantSinghPannu Watch #DarkWorld with Harshit Sabarwal (@B_Torg) on WION#Modigovt #SFJ #Khalistan pic.twitter.com/9mnCK76Rty — WION (@WIONews) July 30, 2023 × Also Read | Hardeep Singh Nijjar's murder and the 'very fraught' India-Canada ties. What's the future? Canada expelled a top Indian diplomat after the country's Prime Minister Justin Trudeau made a speech levelling grave allegations against India. New Delhi, in a retaliatory move, also asked a senior Canadian diplomat to leave the country within the next five days. "The High Commissioner of Canada to India was summoned today and informed about the decision of the Government of India to expel a senior Canadian diplomat based in India. The concerned diplomat has been asked to leave India within the next five days," an official readout said. "The decision reflects Government of India’s growing concern at the interference of Canadian diplomats in our internal matters and their involvement in anti-India activities," it added. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. ×

Nijjar death: Khalistani terrorist Gurpatwant Singh Pannun threatens Hindus in Canada

Punjab Chief Minister Amarinder Singh said Tuesday a purported statement by a <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/police-claim-to-bust-isi-backed-terror-module-in-punjab-174957">pro-Khalistan outfit,</a> seeking support from Pakistan to "liberate" Punjab from India, has exposed its "nefarious designs" and nexus with the Pakistani Army and the ISI.

The chief minister made the remarks after a section of media reported that US-based Sikhs for Justice (SFJ), a separatist outfit, had allegedly sought support from the Pakistan government for 'Referendum 2020', a campaign to "separate Punjab from India".

Attacking SFJ's legal advisor Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, the chief minister said, "The cat is now well and truly out of the bag, and the truth of the deep-rooted connection between the SJF and the Pakistani Army is out in the open."&nbsp;

Amarinder Singh has also taken strong exception to SFJ's reported plans to hold a 'Kartarpur Sahib Convention 2019', coinciding with the auspicious occasion of the 550th birth anniversary celebrations of Guru Nanak Dev, the founder of Sikhism.

The whole affair is a "bigger conspiracy" by the Pakistan Army, which is persistently trying to revive militancy in Punjab, the CM said, reiterating his stand on the issue.&nbsp;

Amarinder Singh also said that Punjab and the Indian Army were well prepared to counter any such plans of the neighbouring country. 
"Punjab is today much better equipped than it was in the 80s and 90s when Pak-backed terrorism had swept the state," he said, warning Islamabad against extending any further support to SFJ or other such outfits that are bent on disturbing the state's hard-earned peace.

The Pakistan Army would do well to remember the ignominious defeats it had suffered at the hands of the Indian Army on every occasion it had tried to take on the might of the latter, right from the 1965 and 1971 wars to the more recent Kargil battle, warned Amarinder Singh.

Asserting that he was all in favour of the Kartarpur Corridor to fulfil the long-pending aspirations of the Sikh community in India, the chief minister said it was the "misuse" of the initiative that he was opposed to.&nbsp;

'If Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan was truly in favour of opening the doors for long-lasting peace with India through this corridor, he should not only unequivocally condemn the SFJ statement but should also ensure that Pakistan soil is not used by the anti-India outfit to further its campaign,' he said, urging the Pak leader to put a stop to the plan of 'Kartarpur Sahib Convention 2019'.

'Let the two countries build a corridor of peace in the true sense of the word, without the auspicious occasion of the 550th 'Prakash Purb' being allowed by Islamabad to be abused by anti-Indian forces,' the CM said.

Punjab Chief Minister Amarinder Singh said Tuesday a purported statement by a pro-Khalistan outfit, seeking support from Pakistan to "liberate" Punjab from India, has exposed its "nefarious designs" and nexus with the Pakistani Army and the ISI.

Punjab Chief Minister Amarinder Singh said Tuesday a purported statement by a pro-Khalistan outfit, seeking support from Pakistan to "liberate" Punjab from India, has exposed its "nefarious designs" and nexus with the Pakistani Army and the ISI. The chief minister made the remarks after a section of media reported that US-based Sikhs for Justice (SFJ), a separatist outfit, had allegedly sought support from the Pakistan government for 'Referendum 2020', a campaign to "separate Punjab from India". Attacking SFJ's legal advisor Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, the chief minister said, "The cat is now well and truly out of the bag, and the truth of the deep-rooted connection between the SJF and the Pakistani Army is out in the open." Amarinder Singh has also taken strong exception to SFJ's reported plans to hold a 'Kartarpur Sahib Convention 2019', coinciding with the auspicious occasion of the 550th birth anniversary celebrations of Guru Nanak Dev, the founder of Sikhism. The whole affair is a "bigger conspiracy" by the Pakistan Army, which is persistently trying to revive militancy in Punjab, the CM said, reiterating his stand on the issue. Amarinder Singh also said that Punjab and the Indian Army were well prepared to counter any such plans of the neighbouring country. "Punjab is today much better equipped than it was in the 80s and 90s when Pak-backed terrorism had swept the state," he said, warning Islamabad against extending any further support to SFJ or other such outfits that are bent on disturbing the state's hard-earned peace. The Pakistan Army would do well to remember the ignominious defeats it had suffered at the hands of the Indian Army on every occasion it had tried to take on the might of the latter, right from the 1965 and 1971 wars to the more recent Kargil battle, warned Amarinder Singh. Asserting that he was all in favour of the Kartarpur Corridor to fulfil the long-pending aspirations of the Sikh community in India, the chief minister said it was the "misuse" of the initiative that he was opposed to. 'If Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan was truly in favour of opening the doors for long-lasting peace with India through this corridor, he should not only unequivocally condemn the SFJ statement but should also ensure that Pakistan soil is not used by the anti-India outfit to further its campaign,' he said, urging the Pak leader to put a stop to the plan of 'Kartarpur Sahib Convention 2019'. 'Let the two countries build a corridor of peace in the true sense of the word, without the auspicious occasion of the 550th 'Prakash Purb' being allowed by Islamabad to be abused by anti-Indian forces,' the CM said.

SFJ seeking help to ‘liberate’ Punjab exposes its nexus with Pak army: Amarinder Singh