BuzzBytes New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi responded to recent allegations of a plot to kill Sikh leader Gurpatwant Singh Pannun on American soil, stating that “few incidents” will not derail the growing ties between India and the US. In an interview with the Financial Times, Modi assured that India would investigate any evidence provided concerning the plot.

Modi downplayed the diplomatic impact of a recent US indictment, which claimed that an Indian official directed the plot against Pannun, declared a terrorist by India. He emphasized India’s commitment to the rule of law and mentioned that an inquiry committee had been set up to investigate the allegations, with External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar confirming necessary follow-up actions.
Expressing concerns about Khalistani activists misusing freedom of expression in Western countries, Modi highlighted the misuse of such platforms for intimidation and incitement of violence. Despite these concerns, he maintained that such incidents would not significantly affect the overall relationship between India and the US.
Modi acknowledged bipartisan support for strengthening the India-US relationship and stressed the importance of security and counterterrorism cooperation. In response to the joint statement from five Indian-American members of the US Congress warning of potential damage to the partnership, Modi remained confident that the mature and stable partnership would prevail.
The Prime Minister pointed out the complexity of international relations in the era of multilateralism, stating that absolute agreement on all matters cannot be a prerequisite for collaboration. He highlighted the interconnected and interdependent nature of the world, emphasizing the need to recognize diverse perspectives in diplomatic relations.
The US indictment filed against Nikhil Gupta, an Indian national, alleged that a senior field officer ordered the assassination of Pannun in New York. Gupta, currently in the custody of Czech authorities, faces extradition to the US. The indictment detailed Gupta’s alleged contact with an undercover US law enforcement officer, whom he believed to be a hitman, revealing the intricate nature of the foiled plot.
Despite these challenges, Modi expressed optimism about the resilience of India-US relations, emphasizing the stable and mature partnership between the two countries.