Gurpatwant Singh Pannun: Alleged Mastermind of Murder Plot in the US with Sikh Separatist Ties

The United States has accused India of planning to assassinate an American citizen who supports the creation of Khalistan, an independent Sikh state separate from India. According to Washington, an Indian national, working with an Indian government official, attempted to hire a hitman for $100,000 to carry out the murder on American soil. However, the plot was foiled as the hitman turned out to be an undercover federal agent. The target of the assassination plot is Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, a dual US-Canadian citizen and the spokesperson for Sikhs for Justice (SFJ), a US-based Sikh separatist group banned in India since 2019. Delhi confirmed that Pannun is wanted for violation of the law but denied any involvement in the murder conspiracy. Pannun has been a controversial figure in India and has been designated as a terrorist by the government. He is wanted in nearly two dozen cases, including terrorism and sedition charges. Pannun and SFJ are vocal advocates for Khalistan, despite the movement having little support within India. Pannun was born in Punjab and later moved to the US, where he acquired degrees in management and law. He gained media attention after SFJ began suing prominent Indian politicians and celebrities, accusing them of playing a role in the 1984 anti-Sikh riots. Pannun used a law called Alien Tort Statute to bring these cases to American courts. Although the cases did not succeed, they brought attention to his anti-India campaign. In recent years, Pannun has organized non-binding referendums in Western countries with large Indian diaspora populations, advocating for the creation of Khalistan. He has also made provocative statements and threats against India and its leaders in various videos posted on SFJ's website and social media platforms. While Delhi is concerned about Pannun's activities, many Indians are frustrated that the US has not taken any action against him. The Indian government has shared information with Washington about Pannun's alleged crimes in India and concerns regarding threats made by extremists or terrorists against India or Indian diplomats. Prime Minister Modi has addressed the controversy, stating that India will investigate any evidence provided on its alleged links to the assassination plot. However, he also raised concerns about individuals using freedom of speech and assembly to engage in intimidation and incite violence.