Toronto, September 30(HS): Canada has officially listed India’s Bishnoi gang as a terrorist entity, a move empowering the federal government to seize the gang’s property and freeze assets within Canadian jurisdiction. Public Safety Minister Gary Anandasangaree announced that the designation aims to address the gang’s climate of fear and intimidation within Canadian diaspora communities.
The Bishnoi gang, led by Lawrence Bishnoi, a 32-year-old Indian gangster imprisoned for a decade, is described by Canadian authorities as a transnational criminal organisation active primarily out of India with significant operations in Canada, especially in regions with large diaspora populations. The gang is alleged to be involved in serious crimes including extortion of celebrities, drug and weapon smuggling, and targeted assassinations.
Last year, Canadian police claimed that agents linked to the Indian government exploited Bishnoi members to execute homicides and violent acts against pro-Khalistan supporters—a charge India denied, demanding evidence. The new terrorist designation grants Canadian law enforcement enhanced powers to prosecute offences related to terrorism financing, recruitment, and travel.This measure follows pressure from opposition parties and premiers of Alberta and British Columbia, who advocated for sanctions to curb the gang’s influence.
The designation also comes amid efforts to repair strained Indo-Canadian relations following the 2023 killing of Sikh separatist leader Hardeep Singh Nijjar in Vancouver, an incident that led former Prime Minister Justin Trudeau to implicate the Indian government.
Recent diplomatic engagements include the appointment of new high commissioners and Indian commitments to cooperate on security investigations, including pledges to prevent transnational repression.
Canadian authorities continue investigations, with local and federal agencies collaborating to address the complex challenges posed by the Bishnoi gang’s transnational activities.
Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar
