The United States’ request for the extradition of Indian citizen Nikhil Gupta, allegedly involved in a plot to assassinate pro-Khalistan leader Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, has exposed the fragile nature of US-India relations. While India denies the charges, the allegations raise concerns about the partnership between the two countries. If Prime Minister Narendra Modi feels cornered, he may use the situation to his advantage politically, which could be a severe setback for both New Delhi and Washington.
The United States is seeking the extradition of Nikhil Gupta, an Indian citizen who is allegedly linked to a plot to assassinate pro-Khalistan leader Gurpatwant Singh Pannun. Currently, Gupta is in the custody of the Czech Republic authorities, who have agreed to the extradition request made by Washington.
The US government has accused an Indian government agent of being involved in the plot, despite New Delhi denying these charges and stating that they contradict government policy. This recent indictment has raised concerns about the partnership between the United States and India.
The allegations have exposed the fragile nature of the bilateral relationship, although the US has urged cooperation and refrained from outright condemnation of the Indian government. The Sikh separatists targeted in the alleged plot were advocates for an independent state of Khalistan, which is rejected by most Indian Sikhs.
It is important to note that the idea of Khalistan was fated to fail due to lack of support from the majority of Indian Sikhs. The accused individual, who has been designated a terrorist by India, has made inflammatory statements and threats against India and Hindus.
While these individuals do not pose an existential threat to India, Prime Minister Narendra Modi may benefit politically from the fallout of the allegations. The tolerance of Khalistani separatists by Canada and the United States has been portrayed by some Indian officials as support for anti-Indian forces.
Mr. Modi, known for his Hindu-first ideology, may use the allegations as a promising cause ahead of the next general elections. His government has pledged to conduct a high-level inquiry into the allegations, but he may also try to position himself as India’s defender against Western bullies if he feels cornered.
The fallout from such a scenario would be a severe setback for both New Delhi and Washington, as the United States sees India as a democratic counterweight to China. There is a risk that India could seek a rapprochement with China if Mr. Modi feels ostracized and believes the United States is jeopardizing India’s territorial integrity.
Such a scenario would undermine America’s grand vision for the 21st century – a democratic concert to contain China.