‘US committed to security of Indian envoy’ : American Embassy Spokesperson on Khalistani threats

In a firm statement addressing recent threats against Indian Ambassador to the U.S., Vinay Mohan Kwatra, a U.S. Embassy spokesperson emphasised, “The U.S. government is firmly committed to the security and safety of all diplomatic and consular personnel in the United States.”

The threats, issued by Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, leader of the banned Khalistani group Sikhs for Justice (SFJ), have raised serious concerns. In a video message, Pannun accused Ambassador Kwatra of being the face of the “India-Russia terror nexus,” claiming he is under surveillance by pro-Khalistan groups. Pannun alleged that Kwatra has been coordinating with Russian diplomats to counter Khalistani activism in North America.

The U.S. government, taking such threats seriously, reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring the safety of Indian diplomats and others serving in the country.

Pannun’s accusations extend to Russian diplomats, threatening retaliation for alleged intelligence sharing with India about Khalistani movements. His rhetoric adds to the strain following incidents such as the attack on the Indian consulate in San Francisco in 2023.

These threats underscore escalating tensions involving Khalistani separatists and diplomatic missions abroad, reflecting broader geopolitical complexities and the need for robust international collaboration to ensure the safety of diplomatic personnel.