NEW YORK, WASHINGTON, PRAGUE — Nikhil Gupta, an Indian national, pleaded not guilty on Monday to charges of murder-for-hire conspiracy in a federal court in Manhattan. Prosecutors allege Gupta plotted with an Indian government official to assassinate Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, a U.S. resident and prominent advocate for a separate Sikh state in northern India. Gupta was ordered detained following the hearing.
The case against Gupta highlights international concerns over political dissent and state-sponsored violence. Pannun, a key figure in the Sikh separatist movement, has long been a target due to his efforts to establish an independent Sikh state, known as Khalistan. The indictment suggests a coordinated effort to silence Pannun, raising serious questions about transnational justice and the protection of political activists.
During the court proceedings, Gupta denied all charges. His defense argued for bail, claiming the case was politically motivated and lacked credible evidence. However, the judge ruled for Gupta’s continued detention, citing the gravity of the allegations and potential risks of flight or further conspiratorial actions.
The charges against Gupta and his alleged connection to an Indian official could escalate diplomatic tensions. This case brings to light the complexities of addressing politically motivated crimes that cross international boundaries, as well as the implications for international human rights and the protection of dissidents.