Sat Feb 14 23:29:56 UTC 2026: ### Headline: India’s R&AW Officer Faces Further Scrutiny in Pannun Assassination Plot

The Story:

The Delhi Police Special Cell is preparing a supplementary chargesheet against Vikash Yadav, a former Research and Analysis Wing (R&AW) officer, for his alleged involvement in a plot to assassinate Khalistani separatist Gurpatwant Singh Pannun and his associates. This development follows US authorities implicating Yadav as a co-conspirator. Yadav was initially arrested on December 18, 2023, alongside Abdullah Khan. The US Department of Justice (DoJ) alleges that Yadav directed Nikhil Gupta to orchestrate the killing of Pannun, promising to supply firearms and arrange clearance for an aircraft to move weapons. Nikhil Gupta has pleaded guilty in the US and is scheduled to be sentenced on May 29.

Key Points:

  • Vikash Yadav, a former R&AW officer, is implicated in a plot to assassinate Gurpatwant Singh Pannun.
  • A supplementary chargesheet is being prepared by the Delhi Police Special Cell against Yadav.
  • Yadav was initially arrested on December 18, 2023, along with Abdullah Khan.
  • The US DoJ alleges Yadav directed Nikhil Gupta to orchestrate the assassination and provided resources.
  • Nikhil Gupta has pleaded guilty in the US and is scheduled for sentencing on May 29.
  • The US thwarted the assassination plot in November 2023.

Key Takeaways:

  • The case highlights the complex and sensitive relationship between India and the US regarding Khalistani separatists.
  • The supplementary chargesheet suggests Indian authorities are taking the US allegations seriously, signaling a commitment to investigating the matter.
  • The involvement of a former R&AW officer raises serious questions about potential rogue elements within the Indian intelligence apparatus.
  • The guilty plea by Nikhil Gupta in the US could strengthen the case against Vikash Yadav in India.

Impact Analysis:

This case has significant long-term implications for India-US relations, potentially impacting intelligence sharing and diplomatic ties. The allegations of Indian government involvement in a plot to assassinate a US-based citizen are serious and could lead to increased scrutiny of India’s counter-terrorism operations. Furthermore, this incident may fuel tensions between India and Canada, given Canada’s previous allegations of Indian involvement in the killing of Hardeep Singh Nijjar. The sentencing of Nikhil Gupta and the subsequent legal proceedings against Vikash Yadav will be closely watched internationally.

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