Indian National Pleads Guilty in Plot Targeting Khalistani Separatist Pannun

An Indian national accused of involvement in a failed murder-for-hire plot targeting Khalistani separatist Gurpatwant Singh Pannun has pleaded guilty in a federal court in Manhattan, marking a significant development in a case that has drawn international attention. The accused, Nikhil Gupta, admitted to multiple criminal charges related to the alleged assassination conspiracy.

Gupta, 54, pleaded guilty to charges including murder-for-hire, conspiracy to commit murder-for-hire, and conspiracy to commit money laundering before a US magistrate judge. The charges carry a combined maximum prison sentence of up to 40 years. Sentencing is scheduled for May 29.

According to US prosecutors, Gupta allegedly attempted to arrange the killing of Pannun in New York for a payment of USD 100,000. Authorities stated that Gupta contacted an individual he believed to be a criminal associate to execute the plan. However, the person was a confidential source working with US law enforcement agencies, which ultimately led to the plot being uncovered.

Investigators alleged that in May 2023, Gupta coordinated the operation after being enlisted by a co-accused individual identified in court documents. In June 2023, an associate reportedly delivered USD 15,000 in cash to an undercover operative as an advance payment. Law enforcement agencies intervened before any attack could be carried out.

US officials stated that the case underscores their commitment to protecting individuals on American soil and addressing transnational criminal activity. Authorities emphasized that attempts to carry out violent acts within the United States would be met with strict legal consequences.

Gupta has been in US custody since his extradition from the Czech Republic in June 2024. He was arrested there in 2023 and initially pleaded not guilty following his extradition.

The Indian government has distanced itself from any alleged involvement in the plot, stating that such actions are contrary to official policy. Following the allegations, India established a high-level inquiry committee in November 2023 to examine the matter. The panel submitted its findings in January 2025 and recommended legal action while noting the criminal background of the individual involved, though it did not publicly identify any government official.

Who is Gurpatwant Singh Pannun?

Gurpatwant Singh Pannun is associated with the banned organisation Sikhs for Justice, which India has designated an unlawful association. In 2020, the Indian government declared him a terrorist under anti-terror laws, accusing him of promoting separatism and supporting activities linked to the Khalistan movement. His properties in Punjab have been seized by investigative agencies.

Pannun has frequently released controversial video statements and threats targeting India and Indian nationals, including warnings linked to aviation security and calls encouraging anti-India activities. Originally from Khankot village near Amritsar, he is believed to hold a law degree from Panjab University.

The case continues to draw global attention due to its geopolitical implications and the broader concerns surrounding transnational security and political extremism.