A Czech appeals court has rendered a crucial decision permitting the extradition of Nikhil Gupta, a 52-year-old Indian man, to the United States. The ruling stems from allegations by U.S. federal prosecutors regarding Gupta’s involvement in a foiled plot to assassinate a Sikh separatist residing in New York City. The final verdict on Nikhil Gupta’s extradition will be determined by Justice Minister Pavel Blazek after the court’s decision is officially communicated to all parties involved in the case. A spokesperson from the Justice Ministry informed Reuters about the procedural steps in the aftermath of the appeals court ruling.
US Allegations and Gupta’s Arrest
US prosecutors have accused Gupta of collaborating with an Indian government official in a conspiracy to eliminate a New York City resident advocating for a sovereign Sikh state in northern India. Gupta’s apprehension took place in June of the preceding year when he traveled from India to Prague.
Gupta’s Defense and Claim of Political Motivation
According to reports from Czech news website seznamzpravy.cz, Gupta has vehemently contested the allegations, arguing that there is a case of mistaken identity, and he is not the person sought by the United States. He has characterized the case as politically motivated.
Timeline for Decision and Potential Obstacles
The Justice Ministry spokesperson indicated that the timeframe for Minister Blazek’s decision is uncertain at this point. Gupta is expected to explore all available avenues to thwart extradition. The minister has a three-month window to approach the Supreme Court if any doubts arise about the lower court’s decisions.
Legal Backdrop and Historical Extradition Agreements
The Czech Republic, in the past, has acceded to US extradition requests. The Prague High Court’s rejection of Gupta’s appeal upholds a previous lower court decision from December that sanctioned the extradition.
Lawyer’s Response and Potential Constitutional Appeal
As of now, Gupta’s legal representative has not responded to requests for comment. However, according to the Czech news website, the lawyer has asserted plans to implore the minister against extradition and explore avenues to escalate the case to the Constitutional Court.
(With Reuters Inputs)