Indian Official Arrested in Murder Plot Foiled in New York
A former Indian government official, Vikash Yadav, 39, has been charged in the US for allegedly directing a foiled murder plot targeting a Sikh separatist in New York. The development comes after he was arrested in New Delhi in December in an attempted murder case.
The Plot Unfolds
According to the US indictment, Yadav, who was an Indian government employee at the time, worked with others in India and abroad to direct a plot to kill Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, a dual US-Canadian citizen. The plot was allegedly orchestrated from May 2023.
Indian Arrest and Charges
Delhi Police arrested Yadav on December 18, 2023, and charged him and an associate with attempted murder and other crimes, according to a filing in a Delhi district court. The charges were based on a complaint by an Indian businessman who alleged that Yadav and an associate kidnapped him, assaulted and robbed him.
Lawyer’s Response
Yadav’s lawyer, RK Handoo, disputes the charges, describing them as "fallacious" and part of an "international plot to bring shame on the government of India and my client." Handoo declined to comment further, and the police did not respond to questions about Yadav’s whereabouts.
Extradition Proceedings
The Washington Post reported that Yadav is still in India, and the US is expected to seek his extradition. If extradited, Yadav could face trial in the US for his alleged role in the foiled murder plot.
Background on Lawrence Bishnoi
According to Indian authorities, Lawrence Bishnoi, a gang leader in Gujarat state, is involved in organized crime and has been accused of being involved in several criminal activities, including murder and extortion. Bishnoi’s lawyer claims that he is contesting more than 40 cases, with many trials yet to begin.
Indian Government Denies Allegations
The Indian government has denied allegations that its agents are involved in the alleged plot to target Indian dissidents in Canada. The allegations were made by Canada this week.
Conclusion
The arrest of Vikash Yadav and the unsealing of the US indictment have shed light on the alleged plot to murder a Sikh separatist in New York. The case has raised questions about the involvement of Indian government officials in criminal activities and the connections between organized crime and the government.
FAQs
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Who is Vikash Yadav?
Vikash Yadav is a former Indian government official who has been charged in the US for allegedly directing a foiled murder plot targeting a Sikh separatist in New York. -
What is the alleged plot?
The plot involved working with others in India and abroad to direct a plot to kill Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, a dual US-Canadian citizen. -
What is the Indian police’s case against Yadav?
Yadav was arrested in New Delhi in December 2023 and charged with attempted murder and other crimes based on a complaint by an Indian businessman. - Is Yadav’s lawyer claiming innocence?
Yes, Yadav’s lawyer, RK Handoo, is disputing the charges, calling them "fallacious" and part of an "international plot to bring shame on the government of India and my client."