The Indian government has responded to a report in The Washington Post that alleged the involvement of top Indian officials, including former RAW chief Samant Goel, in a murder-for-hire plot. The government described the report as unwarranted and unsubstantiated, emphasizing that it makes serious imputations on a matter of national security. In its statement, the government noted that there is an ongoing investigation being conducted by a high-level committee that was set up to address security concerns shared by the US government regarding organized criminals, terrorists, and other networks. The government spokesperson stressed the need for responsible and cautious comments on the matter, as speculative and irresponsible remarks can hinder the progress of the investigation. The Indian government formed the committee in November, but no information regarding the outcome of the probe has been disclosed yet. The Ministry of External Affairs previously stated that India is investigating the information shared by US authorities because it has implications for India’s security as well. The US had previously indicted an Indian national, Nikhil Gupta, for his involvement in the murder plot, identifying him as working for an Indian official referred to as ‘CC-1’. The Washington Post’s report has now identified the official who allegedly ordered the assassination attempt as Vikram Yadav. However, the Indian government has not yet confirmed the identity of this official. Gupta is currently awaiting extradition in Prague, while the report stated that Yadav had been transferred to the CISF (Central Industrial Security Force) following the unraveling of the Pannun plot. The report prompted a response from the White House, with an expectation of accountability from the Indian government regarding the assassination plot. Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, the target of the foiled plot, is wanted in India on terror charges and holds dual citizenship of the US and Canada. He has been designated as a terrorist by the Union home ministry under anti-terror law. The press secretary of the White House, Karine Jean-Pierre, commented on the report, stating that the US takes the allegations seriously and expects the Indian government to investigate the matter. Jean-Pierre emphasized that the US will continue to raise concerns directly with the Indian government, highlighting the seriousness with which they view the situation and the need for accountability. The Indian government has not confirmed the identity of the official mentioned in the report but has assured the US government of their commitment to taking the matter seriously and conducting a thorough investigation.