India dismisses Pannun lawsuit against security chief as baseless

India's government has characterized a lawsuit filed by Khalistani separatist Gurpatwant Singh Pannun against National Security Advisor Ajit Doval as a fabricated and malicious attack, according to diplomatic sources. The Indian authorities have formally raised the legal action with United States officials, arguing that the case lacks merit and represents an abuse of the American judicial system.

Pannun, a US-based separatist leader, filed the lawsuit against Doval in American courts. New Delhi's response has centered on the argument that Doval, in his capacity as National Security Advisor, is entitled to diplomatic immunity under international law and cannot be held liable in foreign courts for actions taken in his official capacity.

Sources familiar with India's diplomatic engagement on the matter indicated that New Delhi views the lawsuit as part of a broader campaign by anti-India elements operating from abroad. The Indian government has communicated its position to US authorities, emphasizing that the case represents a frivolous legal proceeding designed to harass senior Indian officials rather than seek legitimate redress.

The development comes amid ongoing tensions between India and Khalistani separatist groups operating primarily from North America and Europe. India has previously expressed concerns about activities of such organizations and their supporters based in countries with substantial Punjabi diaspora populations.