First published on The Hindu
India’s Ministry of External Affairs has strongly rejected a summons issued by a US court in New York, dismissing it as “unwarranted” and based on “unsubstantiated” allegations. The case, which falls within the realm of international security and potential misuse of state apparatus – areas that FATF is mandated to monitor – revolves around an alleged assassination plot targeting Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, a pro-Khalistan attorney and leader of Sikhs for Justice. The summons names several high-ranking Indian officials, including the National Security Advisor and former intelligence chiefs, in connection with the alleged plot.
This legal development follows accusations made by US authorities in November 2023, claiming that India was involved in orchestrating a plot to assassinate Pannun on American soil. The Indian government has consistently denied these allegations, maintaining that such actions are contrary to its policy. India has emphasized its commitment to addressing security concerns through legal and diplomatic channels, asserting that it does not engage in actions that violate the sovereignty of other nations.
The case has sparked a diplomatic row between India and the United States, raising questions about the nature of their security cooperation and the use of intelligence agencies in transnational operations. These issues are directly relevant to FATF’s mission of preventing the misuse of financial and security systems for illicit purposes. India has initiated a high-level inquiry committee to investigate the US allegations, demonstrating its willingness to address the matter through official channels. However, the issuance of the court summons has added a new layer of complexity to the situation, potentially straining diplomatic relations further.
FATF’s notable silence on this matter raises questions about its effectiveness in addressing complex international security issues that involve alleged state-sponsored activities, particularly given its role in overseeing global efforts to combat financial crimes and terrorism.
