In a significant development, Avtar Singh Khanda, the primary handler of Khalistani separatist Amritpal Singh, has passed away in London. While the cause of his death is yet to be confirmed, initial reports suggest food poisoning, although Khanda’s medical records indicate that he was battling blood cancer. Khanda, known for his association with pro-Khalistan activities, was believed to be the mastermind behind the violent incident at the Indian High Commission in London on March 19. The National Investigation Agency (NIA) had recently sought assistance in identifying individuals involved in the attack, including Khanda.
Khanda’s Role in Pro-Khalistan Activities
Avtar Singh Khanda played a crucial role in grooming Amritpal Singh, a prominent pro-Khalistan preacher. Investigation agencies involved in Amritpal Singh’s case have stated that Khanda had been in contact with him during his attempts to evade arrest. Additionally, Khanda’s name had previously emerged during Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to England in 2015, when he was accused by the Indian government of providing bomb-making training at a gurdwara in England. Khanda vehemently denied these allegations.
NIA’s Investigation and Khanda’s Involvement
The National Investigation Agency (NIA) had been actively pursuing Khanda in connection with his alleged involvement in the attack on the Indian High Commission in London. The NIA had released a series of photographs on Twitter, seeking information about individuals involved in the violent incident, and Khanda was among those featured. The agency holds him responsible for causing severe injuries to an official and disrespecting the Indian National Flag during the attack.
Khanda’s Death and its Implications
The sudden demise of Avtar Singh Khanda has raised questions about the ongoing investigation into pro-Khalistan activities. While the exact cause of his death is yet to be determined, the reports of food poisoning and his underlying medical condition of blood cancer suggest a possible connection. The investigation agencies will likely delve deeper into Khanda’s activities and associations to ascertain any potential impact his death may have on their ongoing operations.
Avtar Singh Khanda, the main handler of Khalistani separatist Amritpal Singh, has passed away in London. Known for his involvement in pro-Khalistan activities, Khanda was believed to be the mastermind behind the violent incident at the Indian High Commission in London. Investigations have revealed his role in grooming Amritpal Singh and maintaining contact while evading arrest. The National Investigation Agency (NIA) had sought assistance in identifying Khanda and others involved in the attack. Khanda’s sudden demise brings new dimensions to the ongoing investigation, and further inquiries will be conducted to understand its implications fully.