Amidst the extradition proceedings of Nikhil Gupta, charged in the US for a foiled plot to kill Khalistani terrorist Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, the Czech Ministry of Justice asserts that India has "no jurisdiction" in the matter. Gupta's family had approached the Supreme Court seeking intervention. The spokesperson clarified that Indian judicial authorities lack jurisdiction, addressing concerns raised in the Supreme Court petition. The Ministry denies claims of Gupta's inadequate legal representation, emphasizing Czech legislation. It refutes allegations of restricted consular contact and inappropriate diet in prison. Extradition proceedings continue after the US charged Gupta with conspiring to kill Pannun.

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar condemns the defacement of Swaminarayan Mandir in California with anti-India and pro-Khalistani slogans. Jaishankar stated "Extremists, separatists, and such forces (against India) should not be given space in foreign lands." The Indian Consulate in San Francisco expresses concern, urging a swift US investigation and action against vandals. The Hindu American Foundation notes the hate crime nature of the incident. Jaishankar also addresses consular assistance for Indian national Nikhil Gupta facing charges in the Czech Republic. Gupta, accused in a plot against a Sikh separatist, has received consular access. The Czech government asserts jurisdiction, complicating India's intervention. The US seeks Gupta's extradition.

French authorities grounded a Nicaragua-bound plane carrying 303 Indian passengers, suspecting human trafficking. The flight, operated by Romanian company Legend Airlines, had departed from Dubai and was detained at Vatry airport in France following an anonymous tipoff. Two individuals were arrested as the judicial inquiry focuses on the trip's purpose. The Indian embassy is investigating, ensuring the well-being of passengers. Passengers, possibly aiming for illegal entry into the US or Canada, are confined at the airport. France's anti-organized crime unit leads the investigation. The airport's arrival lounge is now a waiting area with beds as officials delve into this alarming incident.

The Swaminarayan Mandir Vasana Sanstha in Newark, California, faced outrage as it was defaced with anti-India and pro-Khalistan graffiti. The Indian consulate in San Francisco strongly condemned the incident, stating it hurt the sentiments of the Indian community. The Hindu American Foundation shared images of the graffiti on social media, calling for a hate crime investigation. Discovered by a devotee on Thursday night, the hateful slogans included references to Khalistani terrorist Jarnail Singh Bhindranwale. Newark police labeled it a 'targeted act' and assured a thorough investigation. India demands prompt action against the vandals, seeking justice for the desecration of the Hindu temple.

A Nicaragua-bound flight carrying over 300 Indian passengers was grounded in France over suspected human trafficking. India has been granted consular access to those onboard, confirming their well-being. The flight, originating from the UAE, was due for refueling in France. The Indian Embassy in France is investigating the situation and ensuring the welfare of passengers. French authorities detained the plane, acting on an anonymous tipoff. The Paris Public Prosecutor's office stated that the passengers are likely victims of human trafficking. France's anti-organised crime unit JUNALCO is investigating the case, officials said. The A340, operated by Legend Airlines, "remained grounded on the tarmac at Vatry airport following its landing", the AFP report.

A Romania-chartered plane bound for Nicaragua, carrying 303 Indian passengers, was grounded in France over suspected human trafficking. Departing from Dubai, the aircraft was detained following an anonymous tip. Paris prosecutors initiated a judicial investigation into the trip's conditions and purposes. The Romanian company, Legend Airlines, operated the A340, now under scrutiny by France's anti-organized crime unit. Passengers, suspected of planning illegal entry to the U.S. or Canada, were held at Vatry airport. The unfolding investigation focuses on potential illegal migration. The airport's reception hall was adapted to accommodate passengers during the ongoing inquiry.

The FBI is amplifying its efforts to uncover the whereabouts of 29-year-old Indian student Mayushi Bhagat, who vanished without a trace from Jersey City in 2019. Bhagat, enrolled at the New York Institute of Technology, was last seen donning colorful pyjama pants and a black T-shirt. The FBI, in collaboration with the Jersey City Police Department, is now offering a substantial reward of $10,000 for any information that could lead to her location or safe return. Born in India and proficient in English, Hindi, and Urdu, Bhagat's sudden disappearance has left authorities and her family in a state of distress. Authorities encourage individuals with relevant information to contact the FBI Newark or the Jersey City Police Department.            

India swiftly responded to Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau's 'tonal shift' remark, asserting a consistent stance on Canada's support for separatists and terrorists. External Affairs Ministry spokesperson Arindam Bagchi stated, "The core issue remains the space given to extremists, terrorists, and anti-India elements in that country." Trudeau's reference to a potential understanding and collaboration received a firm response, with Bagchi emphasizing India's hope for action against those misusing freedom of speech. The ongoing diplomatic discord, fueled by recent US accusations and Canada's unproven claims, underlines the complexities in India-Canada relations.

India's Ministry of External Affairs revealed on Thursday that Indian officials have obtained consular access three times to Nikhil Gupta, the 52-year-old Indian national detained in the Czech Republic over an alleged plot to kill Khalistani leader Gurpatwant Singh Pannun. Gupta was arrested on June 30 at the request of US authorities, who charged him with agreeing to pay $100,000 to an assassin to kill Pannun. Gupta's family had moved the Supreme Court alleging he was denied legal rights, but the court asked them to approach Czech courts. With New Delhi terming the case concerning, the MEA said Indian envoys have thrice met with Gupta, who remains in solitary confinement as the US seeks his extradition.

The US has released details on the much-anticipated H-1B visa renewal pilot program, open to 20,000 applicants in India and Canada starting January 2024. Eligibility is limited to those with valid H-1B visas issued by the US missions in Canada and India within certain date ranges. Applicants must meet other criteria related to visa status and fingerprints. The pilot aims to allow qualified visa holders to renew their work authorization without traveling abroad. Slots will be released weekly, with 2,000 for Canada and 2,000 for India. The program ends April 2024 or when slots are filled. It intends to reduce lengthy visa wait times and ease the process for Indian H-1B holders.