Concerned over threats to Air India and the Indian Parliament
Our Bureau
New Delhi, India
India has sought the help of US in prosecuting Khalistani terrorist Gurpatwant Singh Pannun in view of recent threats issued on the Indian Parliament and Air India. The matter was raised with the US and Canadian authorities, said the Ministry of External Affairs, India.
Arindam Bagchi, in his press briefing, said, “We do take threats seriously. We are caught in a bind here. I don’t want to amplify too much credence to such extremists who make threats and get a lot of coverage. We have taken up this matter with the US and Canadian authorities. Extremists and terrorists have the tendency to want media coverage on an issue.”
The Indian government has clarified that these threats by Khalistani separatist and founder of Sikhs for Justice (SFJ) Gurpatwant Singh Pannun are clearly in violation of Indian laws.
The US and Canada have been informed about India’s national security concerns amidst an environment of threats being created by Pannun to attack Indian Parliament and dissuade people abroad from flying on Air India flights.
“Pannun is wanted by our agencies for violation of a law. There is a process by which we seek assistance. Requests have gone through detailing the crimes he is responsible for in India and hence what kind of assistance we would require from foreign countries,’’ responded MEA spokesperson in response to a question whether India has demanded that the US arrest and prosecute Pannun.
Pannun has cases against him in India and has been booked in 2 dozen cases in Punjab for sedition and terror related incidents. However, India’s request for issuing a red corner notice against Pannun has been rejected by the Interpol twice.
Bagchi further clarified that FBI Director Christopher Wray’s visit to India next week was prearranged. The visit comes against the backdrop of US allegations that Indian government is involved in a foiled plot to kill Pannun in New York.
As per reports from US media, CIA Director William Burns and Director of National Intelligence Avril Haines had visited India in August and October, respectively, for demanding a probe against those responsible for the “lethal plotting.”
