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India-origin strategist charged with keeping secret US defence files

October 15, 2025

Ashley Tellis, a 64-year-old Indian-origin foreign policy expert and current State Department senior adviser, has been arrested and charged with unlawfully retaining national defense information after over 1,000 pages of classified US documents were allegedly found at his home. The FBI claims surveillance showed Tellis printing classified documents at State and Defense Department buildings and leaving with a briefcase or bag, while also noting meetings with Chinese government officials. If convicted, Tellis faces up to 10 years in prison and a potential $250,000 fine for what US Attorney Lindsey Halligan described as charges representing "a grave risk to the safety and security of our citizens.

Who is affected

  • Ashley Tellis, the Indian-origin foreign policy expert facing charges
  • The US government, particularly the Department of Defense and State Department where Tellis had access
  • US citizens whose safety and security might be at risk according to the DOJ statement
  • US-India-China relations, an area where Tellis has commented extensively

What action is being taken

  • The US Justice Department is prosecuting Tellis for unlawful retention of national defense information
  • The FBI is investigating Tellis's activities, including surveillance of his movements between government buildings
  • The case is proceeding to a hearing where Tellis's lawyer plans to present evidence

Why it matters

  • The charges represent what the DOJ calls "a grave risk to the safety and security" of US citizens
  • Tellis held influential positions with top-secret clearance, including roles on the National Security Council under former President Bush
  • The case involves over 1,000 pages of classified documents with "top secret" and "secret" markings
  • The FBI alleges Tellis met with Chinese government officials multiple times in recent years

What's next

  • A hearing will be held where Tellis's lawyer plans to present evidence
  • If convicted, Tellis faces a maximum prison term of 10 years and up to a $250,000 fine

Read full article from source: BBC