Commission recommends action against ‘individuals’ months after Pannun was charged with plotting murder

An inquiry committee formed by the Indian government in collaboration with the United States authorities has recommended legal action against a “person” with known criminal links who hinted at the failed plot to kill Khalistan terrorist Gurpatwant Singh Pannoon. The investigation was launched by the Ministry of Internal Affairs in November 2023.

The Interior Ministry did not directly refer to the failed plot to kill Pannun, as the US claims. It does, however, mention information about the activities of some organized crime groups, terrorist organizations, and drug traffickers, which is disseminated by US authorities.

The committee conducted an extensive investigation and acted on tips provided by US agencies. He checked the officials of various departments and carefully studied the important documents related to the case.

Emphasizing the need for functional improvement of systems, the commission also suggested improved response capabilities and improved coordination to effectively counter such threats.

The US has indicted Vikash Yadav, a former officer of India’s Research and Analysis Branch (RAW), for allegedly masterminding the botched plot to kill Pannun. Yadav, who was wanted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), was arrested by a special team of the Delhi Police. Yadav was arrested in a case of attempted murder and kidnapping.