No Consular Access Request Received in US Murder-For-Hire Plot Case: Indian Govt

GG News Bureau
New Delhi, 21st June. The Indian government has confirmed today that it has not yet received any consular access request for Nikhil Gupta, an Indian national accused in connection with a murder-for-hire plot targeting Khalistani terrorist Gurpatwant Singh Pannun in the United States.

Mr. Gupta, aged 53, was apprehended in the Czech Republic on June 30, 2023, at the behest of US authorities. Allegations suggest he conspired with an Indian official to orchestrate the assassination of Pannun in New York. Following extradition to the US on June 14, 2024, Mr. Gupta pleaded not guilty before a federal court in New York this week, as confirmed by his attorney Jeffrey Chabrowe.

The Indian government underscored that it remains in contact with Mr. Gupta’s family but has not yet been formally approached for consular assistance. Designating Pannun as a terrorist, India has distanced itself from the alleged conspiracy, expressing concerns over the involvement of an Indian government official. Last year, India pledged to investigate the matter in coordination with US authorities.

“This case presents complexities for both nations,” Mr. Chabrowe commented ahead of the court proceedings. “It is crucial not to rush to judgments prematurely. As more information unfolds, it could significantly alter perceptions of the government’s accusations,” he added, affirming robust defense preparations to ensure Mr. Gupta’s due process rights are upheld.

According to the US Attorney’s Office, Southern District of New York, charges related to the murder-for-hire plot carry a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison, emphasizing the gravity of the legal proceedings unfolding against Mr. Gupta.