Posted 11/30/2023, 4:38:06 PM
Indictment Reveals Alleged Indian Plot to Kill U.S. Activist, Raising Questions of Motives and Authorization
- An indictment describes an alleged plot by an Indian operative to kill a Sikh activist in the U.S., raising questions of why India would take such a risk
- Possible explanations include the plot being sanctioned from the top to bolster PM Modi's image ahead of elections, or the work of a rogue government element
- India may feel emboldened by growing ties with the U.S. to take risks, and believes it can ensure deniability
- Sloppiness of plot seems at odds with capabilities of top Indian security officials, suggesting it did not originate from the highest levels
- Modi's national security adviser Ajit Doval has a background in intelligence operations targeting Sikh separatists, although Modi makes final policy decisions