Pranpura, Haryana — The family of Vikash Yadav, a former agent of India's Research and Analysis Wing (R&AW), has vehemently dismissed the allegations made by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) regarding his alleged involvement in a plot to murder Khalistani separatist leader Gurpatwant Singh Pannun. The accusations, which surfaced on October 17, have sparked controversy, with Yadav's relatives expressing confusion and disbelief. According to reports, the FBI has declared Yadav wanted in connection with an attempted murder case against Pannun, who holds dual citizenship in the United States and Canada and was designated a terrorist by India in 2020.
The allegations have sent shockwaves through Yadav's family, who claim they are unaware of his supposed past as a RAW agent. Avinash Yadav, Vikash's cousin, spoke to Reuters from their ancestral village of Pranpura, stating, "For us, he is still working for the CRPF (Central Reserve Police Force) as a deputy commandant and a trained paratrooper." Avinash emphasized that Vikash had never divulged any details regarding his alleged work with R&AW, leaving the family in the dark about his professional life. Vikash's mother, Sudesh Yadav, expressed her disbelief regarding the allegations, asserting, "My son has been working for the country." Meanwhile, another cousin, Amit Yadav, described Vikash as a quiet and studious individual, highlighting his achievements as a national-level shooter.
"Only the government of India and Vikash know what has happened. If the government abandons a paramilitary officer, then who will work for them?" Amit questioned. The family is now calling on Indian authorities to clarify the situation and support them during this turbulent time. Yadav's family remains in the dark not only about the charges but also about his current whereabouts. They revealed that Vikash lives with his wife and their young daughter. His father served in the Border Security Force until his death in 2007, and the family has a strong tradition of service in the security forces, with many young men from Pranpura joining various branches of law enforcement.
In December 2023, Yadav was previously arrested by Delhi police under charges related to kidnapping and an attempt to murder a businessman, allegedly under the orders of gangster Lawrence Bishnoi. The incident raised further questions about Yadav's connections and activities. He was released on bail in April 2024 after spending four months in Tihar jail. As the situation unfolds, Vikash Yadav's family is calling for transparency and assistance from the Indian government, underscoring their commitment to supporting a family member they believe has dedicated his life to serving the nation.