Nikhil Gupta Confesses Guilt: Major Revelation in Pannun Assassination Plot
New York/New Delhi, February 14, 2026
Dramatic twist in Khalistani supporter Gurpatwant Singh Pannun’s murder plot case. Key accused Nikhil Gupta (54, Indian citizen) pleaded guilty Friday in US court before Magistrate Judge Sarah Netburn.
Gupta confessed to three federal counts:
Murder-for-hire
Conspiracy to commit murder-for-hire
Conspiracy to commit money laundering
Max Penalty: 40 years if convicted at trial
US Prosecution Recommendation: 21-24 years imprisonment
Final Verdict: Senior Judge Victor Marrero to sentence in coming months
US alleges ex-RAW officer Vikash Yadav (“CC-1”) recruited Gupta. Arrest warrant issued for Yadav. India states Yadav no longer in service; no government involvement
Gupta had no choice amid US agencies’ wiretaps & recordings: Paid $15,000 advance (of $100K) to undercover agent posing as hitman.
Impact: Guilty plea strains India-US ties; sentencing to shape diplomatic fallout.