A Delhi court recently granted an exemption to Vikas Yadav, a former officer of India’s intelligence agency, the Research and Analysis Wing (RAW), from attending a court hearing. Yadav, who is accused by the United States of being involved in a plot to assassinate Khalistani terrorist Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, informed the court of a potential threat to his life from “dangerous elements.”
Vikas Yadav, who had served in the RAW, sought the exemption citing his fear for personal safety. His lawyer presented an argument in court stating that Yadav’s life is in danger due to the involvement of unknown individuals who are potentially plotting harm against him. This claim comes in the wake of his alleged involvement in a high-profile international case, where he is accused of being part of a conspiracy aimed at eliminating Pannun, a prominent figure in the Khalistani movement.
The court, after considering the reasons provided, granted the exemption and allowed Yadav not to appear in person for the hearing. The judge noted that Yadav’s safety concerns would be taken seriously, and further investigation would be conducted regarding the potential threats against him. The matter is of significant diplomatic interest, with both Indian and US authorities keenly monitoring the case.
Yadav’s involvement in intelligence operations has raised concerns due to the sensitive nature of the case, with the international aspect complicating the legal proceedings. The US has alleged that the assassination plot was part of a larger scheme to disrupt the activities of separatist elements involved in the Khalistani movement. However, Indian authorities have yet to make a formal statement regarding Yadav’s role in the case.
As the case unfolds, both the safety of Vikas Yadav and the intricacies of the plot against Pannun will continue to be closely watched by authorities and experts in counterterrorism and international relations. The court has yet to decide on the next steps in the legal proceedings, with the exemption granted for now serving as a temporary measure.
