In a recent development, US authorities have successfully thwarted a plot to assassinate a Sikh separatist on American soil. The Financial Times has reported that the US government has also issued a warning to India over concerns of its involvement in the conspiracy. The targeted individual has been identified as Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, a proponent of the demand for an independent Sikh homeland named Khalistan.

According to unnamed sources, it remains unclear whether the protest to India led to the abandonment of the plot by the conspirators or if it was thwarted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI). The warning was reportedly issued after Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's state visit to the United States in June, where he was welcomed by President Joe Biden.

There has been no immediate response from India's foreign ministry regarding these allegations. However, a US embassy spokesperson declined to comment on discussions with partners on diplomatic, law enforcement, or intelligence matters.

The Financial Times also highlighted that Canada previously alleged "credible" links between Indian agents and the murder of Sikh separatist leader Hardeep Singh Nijjar in June. India vehemently denied these accusations.

Apart from the diplomatic warning to India, US federal prosecutors have reportedly filed a sealed indictment against at least one suspect in a New York District Court. The main target of the foiled plot, Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, has not revealed whether he has been personally warned by US authorities. However, he stated that he would let the US government address the issue of threats to his life on American soil from Indian operatives.

Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, affiliated with Sikhs for Justice (SFJ), has faced legal action from India in the past. In 2019, the Indian government labeled SFJ an "unlawful association" due to its alleged involvement in extremist activities. Furthermore, Pannun himself was designated an "individual terrorist" by India in 2020. India's National Investigation Agency (NIA) has registered a case against him, charging him with terrorism and conspiracy.

The Financial Times noted that the US shared details of the thwarted plot with its allies following Canada's public accusation regarding Indian agents' potential involvement in Nijjar's murder. The report also mentioned that India has now resumed issuing e-visas for Canadian tourists and business travelers, indicating a slight thaw in the relationship between the two countries.