US State Department Denies Expulsion of Indian Diplomats
In Washington DC, the US State Department has dismissed reports suggesting that Indian diplomats might be expelled due to tensions between India and China. During a press briefing, State Department Spokesperson Matthew Miller stated he was unaware of any such expulsion. He clarified, “I am not familiar with this report that we expelled Indian diplomats…I’m not aware of any expulsion.”
Background on Diplomatic Tensions
Earlier, India recalled six diplomats from Canada after they were labeled “persons of interest” in the investigation of the killing of Khalistani terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar. Additionally, the US addressed the case of Vikash Yadav, a former Indian government employee, linked to a foiled plot to assassinate Khalistani terrorist Gurpatwant Singh Pannun.
Extradition and Accountability
When questioned about Yadav’s extradition, Miller noted that it falls under the US Justice Department’s jurisdiction. He mentioned ongoing discussions with India, highlighting a recent delegation visit from India to the US to discuss the investigation’s progress. Miller emphasized, “We made it clear that at that meeting, there will be real accountability.”
FBI’s Involvement
On October 18, the FBI named Yadav in a poster for his alleged involvement in the assassination plot against Pannun. The Ministry of External Affairs confirmed that Yadav, mentioned in the US Justice Department’s indictment, is no longer an Indian government employee.
Doubts Revealed
US State Department -: The US State Department is a part of the United States government that deals with the country’s foreign affairs, like talking to other countries and making sure everyone gets along.
Expulsion of Diplomats -: Expulsion of diplomats means sending diplomats back to their home country because they did something wrong or because of disagreements between countries.
India-China Tensions -: India-China tensions refer to disagreements or conflicts between India and China, which are two big countries in Asia. These tensions can be about borders, trade, or other issues.
Spokesperson Matthew Miller -: Matthew Miller is a person who talks to the public and the media on behalf of the US State Department, explaining their actions and decisions.
Recalled Diplomats -: Recalled diplomats means that a country has asked its diplomats to come back home from another country, usually because of a problem or disagreement.
Vikash Yadav -: Vikash Yadav is a person who was linked to a plan to harm someone, and he used to work for the Indian government but doesn’t anymore.
FBI -: The FBI, or Federal Bureau of Investigation, is a part of the US government that investigates crimes and makes sure people follow the law.
Assassination Plot -: An assassination plot is a secret plan to harm or kill an important person, which is illegal and very serious.