Background
Nikhil Gupta, an Indian national, is currently imprisoned in Prague, facing extradition to the United States for allegedly plotting to kill Khalistani terrorist Gurpatwant Singh Pannun.
Court Decision
The Constitutional Court in Prague, the highest court in the Czech Republic, has denied Gupta’s extradition following a petition rejection. The court stated that there were no violations of fundamental rights and freedoms in approving the decision of lower courts.
Legal Proceedings
- The court ruled that extradition was inadmissible and rejected Gupta’s appeal for release from pre-trial detention.
- It upheld the decisions of the Municipal Court and The High Court regarding the admissibility of extradition.
- The court also declined Gupta’s request for compensation for detention or travel restrictions.
US Involvement
The United States has been seeking accountability from the Indian government regarding the investigation into the murder plot of Pannun. State Department officials have reiterated their expectations for cooperation and updates from Indian authorities.
Response from India
New Delhi has dismissed claims made in a report by The Washington Post, calling them speculative and irresponsible. The Indian Foreign Ministry emphasized the ongoing investigation by a High-Level Committee to address security concerns shared by the US government.