Nikhil Gupta, an individual allegedly linked to the Indian government, has been extradited from the Czech Republic to the United States. Gupta stands accused of involvement in a conspiracy targeting Sikh leaders abroad, purportedly at the behest of Indian authorities.
The case gained traction following incidents in June 2023, including the fatal shooting of Sikh leader Hardeep Singh Nijjar outside a gurdwara in Canada. Another attempt on the life of US-based Sikh lawyer and Tehreek-e-Khalistan leader Gurpatwant Singh Pannu was also reported during the same period.
According to investigative reports, Gupta, along with other Indian officials, allegedly orchestrated these attacks. It is claimed that Gupta facilitated the hiring of a hitman to carry out the attacks, inadvertently employing an undercover American agent for the job.
Following his arrest in the Czech Republic on charges related to these allegations, Gupta was extradited to the US on June 16, 2024. A video released by Czech authorities depicted Gupta being escorted onto a plane bound for America under strict security measures.
Upon arrival in the US, Gupta was promptly arraigned in federal court in New York on June 17, after which he was transferred to a detention center in Brooklyn pending further legal proceedings.
Meanwhile, the extradition and subsequent legal actions mark a pivotal moment in the ongoing investigation into the alleged conspiracy, which has drawn international attention and scrutiny.
In Canada, the anniversary of Hardeep Singh Nijjar's death was solemnly observed in the Parliament with a minute's silence on June 18, reflecting the gravity of the incidents under investigation.
Authorities in the US continue to pursue the case diligently, underscoring the gravity of allegations against Gupta and the broader implications for diplomatic relations and justice.
