Indian ambassador faces heckling by Khalistani protesters during US Gurdwara visit

Indian Ambassador to the US, Taranjit Singh Sandhu, faced disruption during a visit to Hicksville Gurdwara in Long Island on Gurpurab, as Khalistani protesters accused him of plotting the assassinations of Hardeep Singh Nijjar and Gurpatwant Singh Pannun. A viral video captures the tense exchange, with Sandhu explaining his visit for seva (service). The protesters allege responsibility for Nijjar’s assassination and plot against Pannun.

BJP’s RP Singh, in a video post, reported the heckling, attributing it to Himmat Singh. Himmat Singh accused Sandhu of India’s involvement in Nijjar’s killing, adding complexity to the diplomatic situation. Sandhu, in a subsequent post, omitted mention of the heckling, focusing on the Gurpurab celebration.

Hardeep Singh Nijjar, a Khalistani terrorist, was killed in Canada, leading to allegations by Canadian PM Trudeau of Indian involvement, sparking a diplomatic dispute. India dismissed the claims, prompting External Affairs Minister Jaishankar to express openness to an investigation contingent on evidence.

Recent reports from the Financial Times revealed US authorities thwarted a plot to kill Pannun, leader of Sikhs for Justice. The White House emphasized the gravity of the situation, prompting discussions at the senior-most levels with the Indian government. India expressed surprise and concern, denying involvement.

External Affairs Ministry spokesperson Arindam Bagchi highlighted India’s serious consideration of such inputs, citing implications for national security. The situation underscores the intricate geopolitical landscape and the challenges in managing diplomatic relations amid allegations and security concerns.