Story perspectives

Indian Man Pleads Guilty in Murder-for-Hire Plot, Strains US-India Relations

2/13/2026

Summary

Story summary

Nikhil Gupta, an Indian national, pleaded guilty February 13, 2026, to three charges in a murder-for-hire plot against Gurpatwant Singh Pannun in New York City.
He faces a maximum sentence of 40 years in prison.
United States prosecutors allege Gupta conspired with an Indian government official.
India denies the accusation, saying it contradicts its policy.
The case has strained India–United States relations over concerns about assassination plots against Sikh separatists.

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Story summary

Nikhil Gupta, an Indian national, pleaded guilty February 13, 2026, to three charges in a murder-for-hire plot against Gurpatwant Singh Pannun in New York City.
He faces a maximum sentence of 40 years in prison.
United States prosecutors allege Gupta conspired with an Indian government official.
India denies the accusation, saying it contradicts its policy.
The case has strained India–United States relations over concerns about assassination plots against Sikh separatists.