A senior U.S. adviser on India has been suspended after authorities say she took classified documents and met secretly with Chinese officials.
The State Department announced the move on Tuesday, stating that the adviser, who had worked on U.S. policy toward South Asia for more than a decade, violated U.S. security rules.
The incident first came to light when a whistle‑blower reported that the adviser had removed sensitive files from her office and sent them to a Chinese travel‑agent. Investigators later traced those documents to a secure Chinese delegation that had visited Washington for a meeting on trade and human rights.
“We are taking this matter seriously,” said a spokesperson for the National Security Council. “The individual in question had access to highly classified information. Her actions threaten U.S. national security.”
The adviser had held the post of Deputy Assistant Secretary for India, a role that involves shaping U.S. policy on the subcontinent and coordinating with allies in the region. The removal of documents was seen as a breach of the U.S. Government’s Information Security Program, which sets strict guidelines for handling classified material.
The allegation also raises concerns about the growing rivalry between Washington and Beijing. Experts say the case should be viewed as part of a broader pattern of alleged espionage incidents involving U.S. officials in recent years.
While the adviser has not yet been formally charged with crimes, she is currently on administrative leave and will be removed from her position pending further investigation. The State Department noted that it was collaborating with the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Department of Homeland Security to determine whether any classified information was shared with foreign intelligence services.
Washington officials have urged Indian counterparts to stay vigilant. “India is a crucial partner for the United States, especially when it comes to countering China’s influence,” the spokesperson said. “We want to reassure Indian leaders that we remain committed to safeguarding our shared interests.”
The case has drawn sharp criticism from some lawmakers who say it marks a warning sign that U.S. officials may be vulnerable to foreign influence. A committee hearing is being scheduled for next month to discuss the policy and procedural gaps that may have allowed the alleged wrongdoing.
In the meantime, the adviser’s name has not yet been released publicly, as the investigation proceeds under strict confidentiality. However, the incident has sparked debate about how the United States protects sensitive information and how it continues to navigate its strategic rivalry with China.
Watch for further updates as investigators uncover more about the situation and its possible impact on U.S. national security.
Stay informed on all the latest news, real-time breaking news updates, and follow all the important headlines in world News on Latest NewsX. Follow us on social media Facebook, Twitter(X), Gettr and subscribe our Youtube Channel.
