On Monday, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar responded to US Ambassador Eric Garcetti’s remarks regarding the ‘red line’ in the alleged assassination plot involving Gurpatwant Singh Pannun. Jaishankar stated that India has been investigating the matter based on information provided by the US.
Jaishankar emphasized India’s commitment to its security interests in the ongoing probe. He affirmed, “It is something we are investigating as we believe our national security interests are involved in that investigation.”
Regarding the investigation’s progress, Jaishankar mentioned, “So, as and when we have something to say on the investigation we would be very glad to speak about it. Beyond the fact that there is an investigation going on, we have nothing more to say.”
Last year, an Indian national was charged by American authorities for allegedly plotting with an Indian government employee to assassinate Pannun, a pro-Khalistan figure based in New York. In an interview last week, Eric Garcetti underscored the collaboration between the US and India in the investigation. However, he cautioned against crossing certain boundaries between the two nations.
Garcetti emphasized the importance of upholding freedom of speech while ensuring that criminal accusations meet legal thresholds. He condemned any government’s involvement or endorsement of an assassination plot against a foreign citizen.
Pannun, an India-designated terrorist holding American and Canadian citizenship, has a history of making terrorism threats against India. Last November, he threatened to prevent Air India operations, and in December, he issued threats against the Indian Parliament.
In summary, Jaishankar’s response indicates India’s active engagement in the investigation and commitment to safeguarding its national security interests. Meanwhile, Garcetti’s remarks underscore the importance of respecting sovereignty and legal boundaries in bilateral relations, particularly concerning sensitive issues like terrorism allegations.
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