Washington, Recent allegations of an Indian government official orchestrating an assassination attempt on US soil have added strain to the relationship between the United States and India. Despite concerns raised by US officials over issues ranging from human rights to Ukraine, the Biden administration seems keen on maintaining a stable relationship with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s government.
Two months after Canada accused New Delhi of involvement in a killing near Vancouver, the US Justice Department unveiled charges against an Indian man arrested in the Czech Republic, alleging an Indian official’s involvement in the foiled plot against radical Sikh separatists.
Lisa Curtis, a former White House coordinator for South Asia policy, expressed concern over the emboldened actions of the Modi government, citing a brazen plot that aligns with other controversial stances on human rights, press freedoms, and Russia.
While journalists, activists, and religious minorities in India have faced harassment, the Biden administration appears inclined to compartmentalize the issue, emphasizing the broader strategic relationship. Biden welcomed Modi with a state visit in June, even after the alleged initiation of the assassination plot.
Aparna Pande of the Hudson Institute highlighted the critical nature of the US-India partnership in the Biden administration’s grand strategy and national security goals, despite the recent allegations.
Unlike Canada’s public approach, the United States has opted for a quieter strategy, with Secretary of State Antony Blinken praising India’s promise to investigate. The Biden administration aims to balance concerns with the need for India’s support in countering a rising China, maintaining a close partnership through initiatives like the “Quad” with Australia and Japan.
US officials, including Jake Sullivan and CIA Director Bill Burns, have engaged with Indian counterparts, urging a thorough investigation and assurances against future incidents. The delicate situation is further complicated by Modi’s ability to rally nationalist fervor, making the fallout minimal but drawing attention from critics accusing him of steering India toward an illiberal democracy.
Despite challenges, the Biden administration remains committed to integrating India into its Indo-Pacific strategy, viewing the partnership as essential for regional stability amid China’s growing influence.
By AFP
