Russia has accused the United States of meddling in India’s internal affairs and ongoing elections, stating that Washington has not provided any reliable evidence of Indian citizens’ involvement in a murder plot against Khalistani terrorist Gurpatwant Singh Pannun. Pannun, wanted in India on terror charges, holds dual citizenship of the US and Canada and has been designated as a terrorist by the Union Home Ministry.
Russian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Maria Zakharova criticized the US for making unfounded accusations against India and other states regarding religious freedoms, citing a lack of understanding of India’s national mentality and history. She described the interference as a “colonial period mentality” and accused the White House of complicating India’s upcoming parliamentary elections in 2024.
Zakharova also called out the Washington Post for naming a Research and Analysis Wing officer in connection with the alleged plot to kill Pannun on American soil, a claim strongly rejected by India. The External Affairs Ministry spokesperson, Randhir Jaiswal, emphasized that an investigation into the matter was underway and urged against speculative and irresponsible comments.
The ongoing high-level inquiry committee set up by the Indian government is still probing the case based on inputs provided by the US government. With tensions rising between Russia, the US, and India over these allegations, the situation remains complex and sensitive. Stay tuned for further updates on this developing story.