The US State Department has issued a statement expressing its expectation for India to address allegations of senior Indian officials’ involvement in assassination attempts within the United States. Vedant Patel, the department’s principal deputy spokesperson, reiterated during a news briefing in Washington that accountability is sought from the Indian government based on the findings of an Indian inquiry committee. Patel emphasized ongoing communication with India on the matter and stated that concerns are being raised directly at senior levels.
While Patel refrained from delving deeper into the issue during the public briefing, he directed further inquiries to the Department of Justice. This statement follows a recent report by The Washington Post that presented a clear connection between India’s government and a thwarted assassination attempt targeting a Sikh activist in the US last year. The report also suggested Indian intelligence officials’ involvement in other assassinations in Canada and Pakistan.
In response to questions regarding defense cooperation between the United States and Pakistan, Patel highlighted the common interest shared by the two allies in addressing regional security threats. He affirmed US support for Pakistan’s efforts to combat terrorism while promoting the rule of law and human rights protection. Patel underscored Washington’s partnership with Islamabad, emphasizing high-level counter-terrorism dialogue, robust funding for capacity-building programs, and support for various military engagements between the two nations.
