Indian national Nikhil Gupta, facing charges in a murder-for-hire plot targeting a Khalistani separatist on U.S. soil, is allegedly undergoing human rights violations, including prolonged solitary confinement, while in custody in the Czech Republic, according to court documents filed by his lawyer.
Gupta, 52, was indicted by U.S. federal prosecutors in November for his role in the foiled plot to kill Khalistani separatist Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, a dual U.S. and Canadian citizen. He was arrested in Prague on June 30, 2023, with the U.S. seeking his extradition.
In a 'Motion to Compel Production of Discovery' filed on January 4, Gupta's attorney, Jeff Chabrowe, urged the U.S. District Court to direct prosecutors to provide defense materials relevant to the case. The motion revealed that Gupta, an Indian national, was last in the U.S. in 2017.
The document also highlighted reports from Gupta's family, stating limited access to him, denial of consular access, and allegations of basic human rights violations, including extended solitary confinement. A habeas petition has reportedly been filed on his behalf with the Supreme Court of the Czech Republic.
U.S. District Judge Victor Marrero granted the government three days to respond to the motion. The government, in its reply filed on Wednesday, opposed Gupta's request for discovery material, stating that he is not entitled to it until his appearance and arraignment in the U.S. District.
The response, submitted by U.S. Attorney Damian Williams, emphasized that the government is prepared to provide discovery promptly upon Gupta's appearance in the U.S. District and arraignment on the case. The 15-page superseding indictment reportedly contains charges and additional details about the murder-for-hire plot.
The indictment outlines Gupta's alleged actions, including arranging a cash payment to an undercover officer and engaging in discussions about the plot during video calls. Gupta faces charges related to his involvement in the conspiracy to commit murder for hire.
(With Agency Inputs)
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