The trial of Nikhil (Nick) Gupta, accused of plotting to murder a U.S.-Canadian citizen for the Indian government, has been delayed. Gupta is charged with conspiring with Indian government officials and its intelligence service, the Research and Analysis Wing (R&AW), to carry out the assassination.
Allegations and Connections to Other Cases
Prosecutors allege the plot against Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, a Sikh independence activist, is connected to other alleged efforts targeting Sikhs. Specifically, the case involves potential evidence related to the 2023 killing of Hardeep Singh Nijjar in Surrey, British Columbia, Canada.
Details of the Alleged Conspiracy
Court documents indicate Gupta confessed to his involvement in the plot after his arrest. The conspiracy reportedly began after Gupta returned to India from a trip to Uzbekistan and was informed about pending robbery charges. He was allegedly recruited by Vikash Yadav, also known as Amanat, who offered to drop those charges in exchange for carrying out the assassination.
Broader Context
Both Pannun and Nijjar were involved in a referendum advocating for Khalistan, an independent state in India’s Sikh-majority Punjab region. India has expressed concerns about supporters of the Khalistan movement operating in Canada, while Canada has accused India of violating its sovereignty.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Nikhil Gupta?
Nikhil (Nick) Gupta is an Indian national accused of conspiring with Indian government officials to murder Gurpatwant Singh Pannun.
Who was Hardeep Singh Nijjar?
Hardeep Singh Nijjar was a Canadian Sikh activist who was killed in Surrey, B.C., in 2023. Canada has blamed India for his death.
What is the Khalistan movement?
The Khalistan movement advocates for the establishment of an independent state in India’s Sikh-majority Punjab region.
As the trial is delayed, what further evidence might come to light regarding the alleged involvement of Indian government officials?
