KHALISTAN EXTREMISM MONITOR
A project of the Institute for Conflict Management
A project of the Institute for Conflict Management
India 22-Jun-2023
Punjab Police's Counter Intelligence (CI) wing on June 22 foiled a cross-border smuggling attempt and seized four .30 bore caliber pistols along with magazines in the Kakkar village of Lopoke subdivision of Amritsar district, Punjab. Additional Inspector General (AIG- CI) Sukhinder Singh Mann, revealed that acting on a tip-off, the CI intercepted the weapons being smuggled by from Pakistan via drones. The seizure followed the recent arrest of two cross-border smugglers, one of whom was already in custody at Amritsar Central Jail.
India 22-Jun-2023
A Pakistani drone carrying 2 kg of narcotics was seized by the Border Security Force (BSF) from Jodhawala village near the International Border in the Fazilka sector in Fazilka district on June 22. During the search, BSF recovered a drone and a bag with two packets of narcotics in the fields adjacent to the village.
India 22-Jun-2023
Giani Raghbir Singh officially took over as the new Jathedar of Akal Takht on June 22, the highest temporal seat of Sikhs.
India 22-Jun-2023
Former acting Jathedar of Akal Takht, Giani Harpreet Singh, on June 22 stated that he resigned voluntarily despite facing pressure, without specifying its nature.
India 23-Jun-2023
The Border Security Force (BSF) on June 23 successfully shot down a Pakistani drone that had crossed into Indian territory near T J Singh village in the Tarn Taran district. Following the incident, during a search operation, they recovered the drone on June 24. The drone was identified as a DJI Matrice 300 RTK series quadcopter and was found in a damaged state.
India 23-Jun-2023
Police on June 23 arrested a person, identified as Sachin Maurya and recovered 60 grams of heroin from him near Kishanpura terminal on the Hanumangarh mega highway near Abohar in Fazilka district.
India 23-Jun-2023
Sikhs for Justice (SFJ) chief, Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, issued a new video message calling for retaliation following the assassination of Khalistan terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar and made threats against Prime Minister (PM) Narendra Modi, Union Home Minister Amit Shah, and National Security Advisor (NSA). In the video, Pannun stated, “Remember Rajiv Gandhi and the 1991 elections. Pro-Khalistan Sikhs will come for you in 2024. We are moving freely, if you have guts in your government, get out. Today, we stand outside Washington DC. Listen, Prime Minister Modi, Home Minister Amit Shah, and Security Advisor Ajit Doval, we will achieve a separate Punjab through a referendum.”
India 23-Jun-2023
According to government officials, Canada's response to extradition and deportation requests from India's National Investigation Agency (NIA) regarding alleged terrorist operatives and pro-Khalistan elements has been slow. The NIA has sought the extradition of individuals such as Lakhbir Singh Sandhu alias Landa, a member of Babbar Khalsa International (BKI), and Arshdeep Singh Gill alias Arsh Dalla, associated with the Khalistan Tiger Force (KTF). Despite the accused's alleged involvement in killings and terror activities in Punjab and other parts of India, the Canadian authorities have not taken significant steps in this regard. The Indian government has raised concerns about Canada providing a safe haven for extremists and separatists.
India 23-Jun-2023
The National Investigation Agency (NIA) revealed on June 23 that Amarjot Singh, the brother-in-law of Amritpal Singh, the chief of Waris Punjab De (WPD), has been identified as the primary accused in the attack on the Indian High Commission in Canada on March 23. The NIA has taken over the case and is investigating a larger conspiracy and potential links to Pakistan. According to the NIA's First Information Report (FIR), Singh, led by Baba Sarvan Singh, was part of a pro-Khalistan mob that attacked the Indian High Commission in Canada. The mob raised anti-India slogans, placed Khalistani flags on the boundary wall, and threw two grenades inside the commission building. The NIA has also named eight Khalistan supporters, including Baba Sarvan Singh, for the attack on the Indian Consulate in San Francisco. The agency has been gathering evidence and preparing a list of suspects in similar attacks in London and plans to visit the United States (US) and Canada soon.
Canada 23-Jun-2023
Canada commemorated the 38th anniversary of the Air India Flight 182 bombing on June 23, which killed 329 people, mostly Canadians. The City of Mississauga in Canada lowered its flags at half-mast in remembrance, coinciding with the National Day of Remembrance for victims of Terrorism. Posters in the Greater Toronto areas highlighted the role of Khalistani extremists in the attack. Liberal Member of Parliament (MP) Chandra Arya condemned the recent celebrations glorifying violence and hate, urging authorities to be vigilant. MP Marie-Helene Gaudreau called for a public inquiry into the bombing. The Canadian government has erected memorials and taken steps to investigate the incident and enhance national security.
India 24-Jun-2023
Cheema police on June 24 arrested an individual, identified as Raghuvir Singh, and confiscated a total of 360 habit-forming tablets from his possession in Sangur district. Assistant of Sub-Inspector (ASI) Rajinder Singh stated that they are currently engaged in additional inquiries regarding the matter.
India 24-Jun-2023
GBS Sidhu, the retired Research and Analysis Wing (RAW) officer, while speaking to ANI Editor Smita Prakash disclosed that Congress leaders, including Kamal Nath, orchestrated the rise of Khalistani extremist Jarnail Singh Bhindranwale in the late 1970s. He claims that a political conspiracy was hatched at 1 Akbar Road to create a Sikh extremist leader who would sow division between the Hindu and Sikh communities. Sidhu further reveals that a new wing was created in RAW to investigate Sikh extremism, while Congress leaders aimed to make Khalistani separatism a national issue. Sidhu's book, titled 'Khalistan Conspiracy,' delves into these allegations and their impact on the events leading to Operation Bluestar and Indira Gandhi's assassination.
Pakistan 24-Jun-2023
A Sikh shopkeeper named Manmohan Singh was shot dead on June 24, in Rashidgarhi Bazaar in Peshawar in the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KPK) province of Pakistan by unidentified gunmen. The locals believe it to be a targeted attack, marking the second incident in two days. On June 23, another Sikh shopkeeper, Tarlok Singh, was shot but survived.
Canada 24-Jun-2023
Sikh protesters in Vancouver gathered in front of the Indian consulate on June 24 to denounce the shooting death of Hardeep Singh Nijjar, the president of a Sikh gurdwara. Gurkeerat Singh, a volunteer at the gurdwara, stated that Nijjar had been warned by Canadian intelligence officials about the potential danger to his life. Protesters believe that Nijjar's death was the result of foreign interference, possibly linked to his advocacy for an independent Sikh- Khalistan. While investigators have not established a connection to foreign interference, protesters expressed their conviction that the killing was related to Nijjar's activism.
India 24-Jun-2023
Punjab Police on June 24 arrested two individuals, Daljit Singh and Pritpal Singh, in connection with a case related to pro-Khalistan slogans being painted on a wall at Moga bus stand in Punjab on June 1, from Nanded, Maharashtra. The accused have alleged links to the banned separatist organization Sikhs For Justice (SFJ) and were backed by SFJ chief Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, according to Punjab Director General of Police (DGP) Gaurav Yadav. Moga Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) J Elanchezhian said that the accused were paid INR 80,000 by foreign Khalistani elements to put up pro-Khalistan flags and slogans in Moga and disrupt peace in Punjab. Further inquiries will be made into Pannu's role.
Canada 25-Jun-2023
Thousands gathered for the funeral of Hardeep Singh Nijjar on June 25 in Surrey, Canada. Attendees waved Khalistan flags and described Nijjar as peaceful and dedicated to human rights.
Pakistan 25-Jun-2023
The Islamic State (IS) group on June 25 claimed responsibility for the killing of a Sikh man Manmohan Singh, who was shot and killed on June 24 in a targeted attack in Peshawar, Pakistan, stating that Singh belonged to a "polytheistic" Sikh sect.
India 25-Jun-2023
The State Special Operation Cell (SSOC) of Punjab police busted an extortion racket operating in the name of Lawrence Bishnoi gang and arrested one of its operatives, identified as Vishal Kumar along with a pistol along with two live cartridges in Mohali.
India 25-Jun-2023
In an operation directed by Punjab Director General of Police (DGP) Gaurav Yadav, on June 25, the police conducted simultaneous raids across several districts in Punjab, targeting suspected hideouts of gangsters-turned-terrorists Lakhbir Singh alias Landa and Harwinder Singh alias Rinda. Special Director General of Police (DGP) Arpit Shukla had instructed the police commissioner and Senior Superintendent of Police (SSPs) to deploy strong police teams for a successful operation targeting the nexus between terrorists, gangsters, and drug smugglers in India and abroad. Several people were detained for further verification, and incriminating materials were seized.
India 25-Jun-2023
The Tarn Taran police on June 25 arrested two associates of gangster turned terrorist Harwinder Singh alias Rinda, identified as Arshdeep Singh and his brother Wattandeep Singh, in Tarn Taran district. The police confiscated two pistols along with 285 cartridges of various sizes, 100 grams of opium, and 250 kilograms of 'lahan' (a raw material for liquor production) from their possession.
India 25-Jun-2023
Police on June 25 intercepted a truck containing 215 kilograms of poppy husk and arrested the driver Bhupinder and the cleaner Puna Ram Bishnoi, in Abohar in Fazilka district.
India 25-Jun-2023
The radical Sikh group Dal Khalsa on June 25 announced their plans to hold a memorial event for Hardeep Singh Nijjar at the Darbar Sahib complex on July 1 in Amritsar, Punjab. Nijjar was a Khalistani terrorist who was recently killed in Canada, was wanted by India, and had been sought for extradition since 2018.
India 25-Jun-2023
According to reports, speculation surrounds the recent deaths of three prominent pro-Khalistan leaders in different countries. The deaths have triggered debates about the possible causes. Some suggest that internal conflicts within the overseas leadership of the Khalistan movement may be responsible, while others speculate about a potential purge by Pakistan, which has been linked to supporting Khalistan. These individuals were wanted by India for various criminal cases, leading to social media discussions about the involvement of Indian intelligence agencies. However, there are also arguments that the deaths could be a result of internal disputes among pro-Khalistan leaders overseas. Another speculation revolves around Pakistan's Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) purging Khalistani leaders to replace them with younger figures.
India 25-Jun-2023
In a statement issued on June 25, Dal Khalsa spokesperson Paramjit Singh Mand expressed concern over the increasing interference of the Indian government in Sikh religious affairs and the mysterious killings of Khalistani activists abroad. Dal Khalsa also announced a demonstration in front of the Research and Analysis Wing (RAW) office in Amritsar on July 1, holding India's external intelligence responsible for operations on foreign soil. They believe the state is targeting pro-active Sikhs and seeking unity and a revived spirit of sacrifice among Sikhs to counter these actions. They expressed concerns about future targeted killings, pointing to Indian intelligence agencies as potential culprits. The organization has written a letter to the Prime Minister (PM) of Canada seeking a fair investigation into the murder of Hardeep Singh Nijjar and plans to hold a memorial event for him.
India 25-Jun-2023
Congress leader and the president of the International Anti-Khalistani Terrorist Front Gursimran Singh, Mand on June 25 received a death threat via email. The threatening message, allegedly sent by an unidentified individual with the email id ‘[email protected], claimed to be from the Lawrence Bishnoi group, warned of shooting Mand in the head. Mand had recently spoken out against extremist Balwant Singh Rajowana and his sister Kamaldeep Kaur.
India 26-Jun-2023
According to reports, jailed gangster Lawrence Bishnoi has allegedly confessed to the National Investigation Agency (NIA) that politicians and businessmen pay him a fee in exchange for threatening calls, enabling them to seek police security. Bishnoi, a primary suspect in the Sidhu Moosewala murder case, divulged this information during his interrogation by the NIA regarding funding for Khalistani groups. Sources stated that he claimed to extort INR 2.5 crore per month from various entities, including liquor dealers, call centre proprietors, drug suppliers, and real estate entrepreneurs. Bishnoi also alleged that politicians and businessmen pay him for making threatening extortion calls to secure state police protection. The NIA purportedly shared these specifics with the Union Ministry of Home Affairs (UMHA).
India 26-Jun-2023
India on June 26 summoned a senior Pakistani diplomat to the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) in New Delhi to lodge a formal protest against a string of attacks targeting the Sikh minority, which included the recent murder of a Sikh man in Peshawar, Pakistan. The Islamic State (IS) claimed responsibility for the killing, as well as a prior attack on a Sikh shopkeeper. India called upon Pakistan to carry out a thorough investigation into these attacks and guarantee the safety of minority communities within the country.
India 26-Jun-2023
Police on June 26 arrested a truck driver, identified as Bukkan Singh and seized 5,000 intoxicating tablets from his vehicle in Mehmuana in Faridkot district.
India 26-Jun-2023
Police on June 26 arrested an individual, identified as Ravinder Singh and seized 25 grams of heroin from his possession in Fazilka district.
India 26-Jun-2023
Police on June 26 arrested a person, identified as Gurmeet Singh along with 10 kilograms of poppy husk from Shahpur Arniwala in Fazilka district.
India 26-Jun-2023
In an exclusive interview with India Today, fugitive gangster Goldy Brar revealed the motive behind the murder of popular Punjabi singer Sidhu Moose Wala, almost a year after the incident. Brar, a key member of the Lawrence Bishnoi gang, stated that Moose Wala needed to be taught a lesson for his egoistic behaviour and revenge for the murder of Youth Akali Dal leader Vicky Middukhera along with misuse of political and financial power.
India 26-Jun-2023
According to reports, the use of drones by Pakistan to smuggle narcotics and weapons into India is a growing threat. The accessibility and affordability of drone technology make this threat even more concerning. Pakistan has rapidly acquired drones, both domestically produced and imported from China and Turkey. These drones provide real-time intelligence and carry various payloads, aiding Pakistan's proxy war with India. The increasing sightings of drones along the India-Pakistan border highlight their strategic importance
India 26-Jun-2023
In an exclusive interview with India Today, fugitive gangster Goldy Brar has denied supporting the idea of Khalistan or a separate Sikh nation. He emphasized that although there are individuals who advocate for the Khalistan ideology, he is not one of them. Brar is currently facing charges filed by the National Investigation Agency (NIA) for alleged connections to banned pro-Khalistan terror groups like Babbar Khalsa International (BKI) and others. Brar, a member of the Lawrence Bishnoi gang, argued that since Lawrence Bishnoi comes from a Hindu background and resides in Punjab, Bishnoi should possess the same rights as Sikhs in the region. Brar questioned the notion of asking individuals like Bishnoi to leave Punjab and establish Khalistan.
India 26-Jun-2023
The National Investigation Agency (NIA) charge sheet, which was filed on June 23, revealed that gangster Lawrence Bishnoi's terror network expansion strategy bears similarities to the rise of notorious gangster and drug kingpin Dawood Ibrahim. Bishnoi's gang, which started with petty crimes, has grown to include over 700 shooters in North India, with 300 from Punjab alone. The gang has expanded its influence across multiple states with the help of Bishnoi's aide Goldy Brar. The NIA also revealed that the gang recruits young individuals through social media, promising a life in Canada, and Khalistani terrorist Harvinder Singh Rinda employed Bishnoi gang shooters for criminal activities in Punjab from Pakistan. The investigation traces the origins of this association to the Bargari Morcha in 2015, where radical extremists took advantage of the unrest following a sacrilege incident.
Canada 27-Jun-2023
Moninder Singh, a spokesperson for the British Columbia (BC) Gurdwaras Council and a pro-Khalistani supporter, stated on June 27 that he has gone into hiding following the murder of Hardeep Singh Nijjar in Surrey, Canada. Singh claimed that he and four others, including Nijjar, were warned last year about an imminent threat of assassination. However, when they asked about available protections, they received an unsatisfactory response from the Royal Canadian Mounted Police’s (RCMP), Canada.
India 27-Jun-2023
The Punjab and Haryana High Court on June 27 rejected the bail plea of Dharminder Singh alias Dhana, a narco-terrorist involved in the narco-terror case investigated by the National Investigation Agency (NIA). The court observed that the allegations against Dhana being part of the narco-terror network cannot be disregarded, considering the recovery of his car and his evasive conduct. Dhana's bail was previously denied by the special NIA court, and he has been in custody since June 2020. The case involves the smuggling of heroin from Pakistan to fund the banned outfit Khalistan Liberation Front (KLF) and revive terrorism in Punjab.
India 28-Jun-2023
The Police arrested an individual, identified as Harshdeep Singh, and seized 12 gm of heroin from him near Kandhwala Road in Abohar in Fazilka district.
India 28-Jun-2023
The Police arrested a person, identified as Bilal Khan and seized 700 gm of opium from his car near Sadulshahar in Fazilka district.
India 28-Jun-2023
The Border Security Force (BSF) on June 28 shot down a drone that was intercepted near the International Border (IB) in the Tarn Taran sector in Tarn Taran district. The drone was later found in fields adjacent to Bhura Kohna village in Valtoha-15 Tehsil in Tarn Taran District by a joint search operation conducted by the BSF and Punjab Police.
India 28-Jun-2023
On June 28, Jaspreet Kaur, the sister of Khalistan supporter and the leader of the banned Khalistan Liberation Force (KLF) Avtar Singh Khanda, who passed away in a Birmingham hospital in the United Kingdom (UK), approached Punjab and Haryana High Court (HC) seeking permission to repatriate his body from the UK to Moga, Punjab, for cremation. The National Investigation Agency (NIA) had identified Khanda as the prime suspect in the pulling down of India's national flag during a protest outside the Indian high commission in London on March 19. Jaspreet Kaur, residing in Moga, filed the petition, stating her intention to bear the transportation expenses for bringing her brother's body back to India.
India 28-Jun-2023
The National Investigation Agency (NIA) has located five individuals wanted for their alleged involvement in Khalistan terrorism in India. The individuals have been identified as Kashmir Singh Galwaddi (located in Nepal), Gurjant Singh (located in Australia), Yadwinder Singh (located in the Philippines), Parminder Singh (located in Greece), and Tarsem (located in Dubai). Non-bailable warrants (NBWs) have been issued against them, and they have been declared as absconders. The case, which was filed in New Delhi in August 2022, relates to a conspiracy allegedly carried out by the Khalistan Liberation Front (KLF), Babbar Khalsa International (BKI), and the International Sikh Youth Federation (ISYF).
India 28-Jun-2023
India's External Affairs Minister (EAM), S. Jaishankar on June 28 accused Canada of being driven by vote-bank politics on the Khalistan issue, at an event held in New Delhi. He stated that Canada's response to the matter has been influenced by its electoral considerations, which has impacted bilateral ties. India has repeatedly urged Canada to refrain from providing space to pro-Khalistani separatist and extremist elements. Jaishankar warned that if activities from Canada impinge on India's national security and integrity, India will be compelled to respond.
India 28-Jun-2023
The Amritsar police on June 28 filed challan (charge-sheets) against more than 20 supporters of pro-Khalistan activist Amritpal Singh in connection with the February 23 Ajnala incident. The incident occurred when Amritpal and his followers stormed the Ajnala police station to demand the release of Lovepreet Singh, a supporter of Amritpal who was arrested for detaining and assaulting a Sikh youth. The police have charged the arrested individuals with attempted murder and criminal trespass. Amritpal, who is currently in jail in Dibrugarh, Assam under the National Security Act (NSA), will face arrest in this case, and a supplementary challan will be filed.
Pakistan 29-Jun-2023
According to reports, on June 29, miscreants entered the Singh Sabha Gurdwara in Sukkur, Sindh province of Pakistan, and verbally abused the priests while desecrating the Guru Granth Sahib. The culprits were allegedly released by the police without conducting a proper investigation. This incident raises concerns about the safety of minorities in Pakistan, as recent attacks on Sikhs have sparked alarm.
India 29-Jun-2023
The Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC) chief Harjinder Singh Dhami, on June 29, opposed the implementation of the Uniform Civil Code (UCC), expressing concerns about potential cultural erosion and loss of minority identity. This comes after the Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) also criticized the code's impact on minority and tribal communities.
India 29-Jun-2023
The Punjab Police and Border Security Force (BSF), in a joint operation, on June 29, seized 5.12 kg of heroin valued at around INR 25 crore, dropped by a Pakistani drone from a farming field near Karma border outpost (BOP) in Khalra village in Tarn Taran district.
India 29-Jun-2023
The Punjab government, on June 29, organized a state-level function at Badrukhan village in Sangur district of Punjab, to commemorate the 184th death anniversary of Maharaja Ranjit Singh.
India 29-Jun-2023
According to intelligence sources within Indian intelligence agencies, Pakistan's Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) is orchestrating a sinister Khalistan conspiracy against India, utilizing gangs and Khalistani groups. Intelligence sources revealed ISI agent and Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) terrorist Nasir Khan's involvement in funding, weapons supply, and drug trafficking. Investigations by National Investigation Agency (NIA) and state police unveiled cross-border attempts to arm criminals and deliver drugs, with a control room in Lahore. Security agencies suspect that the ISI is coordinating drone operations from near Pakistani ranger camps, thereby aiding terrorists. Recently, security forces were able to intercept most of the Pakistani drones by gathering crucial information on drone routes through the technical analysis of the chips found in previously captured drones.
India 29-Jun-2023
Waris Punjab De (WPD) leader Amritpal Singh and his aides initiated a hunger strike protesting the lack of telephone access and poor food quality in Dibrugarh jail, Assam, said Amritpal's wife, Kirandeep Kaur after visiting him in jail on June 29. She expressed solidarity with her husband and highlighted the difficulties faced by prisoners who are unable to contact their families or legal counsels. Additionally, Kirandeep mentioned the substandard food quality and the presence of tobacco in chapatis, which goes against Sikh principles.
India 30-Jun-2023
Deputy commissioner (DCP) Biswajit Pegu on June 30 said that radical preacher and Waris Punjab De (WPD) chief, Amritpal Singh, and his aides who are lodged in the high-security Dibrugarh Central Jail in Assam can now make one phone call to their family members once a week. This comes following complaints of communication restrictions by Amritpal's wife Kirandeep Kaur.
India 30-Jun-2023
Police arrested an unidentified young woman along with 17 grams of heroin from near the truck union office in Malout in Muktsar district on June 30.
India 30-Jun-2023
The Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC) President Harjinder Singh Dhami on June 30, criticized the treatment of Amritpal Singh, leader of Waris Punjab De (WPD), and his associates at Dibrugarh jail in Assam. The detainees have reportedly initiated a hunger strike due to alleged harassment and inadequate facilities.
India 01-Jul-2023
Punjab Police on July 1 detained several Dal Khalsa activists who were heading to the office of India's external intelligence agency, Research and Analysis Wing (RAW), to protest the killing of Hardeep Singh Nijjar, the chief of Khalistan Tiger Force (KTF), in Canada, from near the Golden Temple in Amritsar. According to Kanwar Pal Singh, the spokesperson of Dal Khalsa, around 86 activists were stopped near Town Hall on Heritage Street in Amritsar. Pro-Khalistan slogans were also raised during the demonstration. Earlier in the day, the bhog ceremony and antim ardas (final prayers) for Nijjar, who was one of India’s most wanted terrorists, were held at Shaheedi Asthan Baba Gurbax Singh in the Golden Temple complex. Nijjar was designated a 'terrorist' by India under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA).
India 01-Jul-2023
The Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC) on July 1 strongly condemned the incident that took place on June 29, in which miscreants entered the Singh Sabha Gurdwara in Sukkur, Sindh province of Pakistan. They stopped the recitation of Gurbani Kirtan, abused the priests, and desecrated the Guru Granth Sahib. The jathedar called on the Indian government to engage diplomatically with Pakistan to protest the incident and safeguard Sikh religious practices. It is essential to prevent such incidents from recurring.
India 01-Jul-2023
Akal Takht Jathedar Giani Raghbir Singh on July 1 called for an investigation into the serving of food mixed with tobacco to Amritpal Singh and his associates, who are imprisoned in Dibrugarh jail in Assam under the National Security Act (NSA). The Jathedar stated that no devout Sikh can tolerate such an act and in protest, they have undertaken a hunger strike. He urged the governments of Punjab and Assam to take action against those responsible and initiate a probe into the matter.
India 01-Jul-2023
According to sources, the National Investigation Agency (NIA) has approached the Union Ministry of Home Affairs (UMHA) to transfer 10-12 gangsters from Delhi, Punjab, and Haryana jails to Andaman and Nicobar Islands due to suspicions of running criminal activities from inside. The NIA had previously requested the transfer of 25 gangsters, including Lawrence Bishnoi, to southern states, but the process is time-consuming. The agency is considering relocating the gangsters to either Dibrugarh Central Jail in Assam or the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. Legal opinions are being sought, and the NIA has filed First Information Reports (FIR) against multiple gangsters for their involvement in various criminal activities.
India 01-Jul-2023
The Border Security Force (BSF) on July 1 recovered two plastic bottles containing approximately 1.5 kg of heroin floating on the Sutlej River near Rao ke Uttar village in Ferozepur district of Punjab. The alert BSF troops observed suspicious articles flowing in the river and successfully brought them to the river bank. The BSF further mentioned that the drugs were most likely transported from Pakistan to India through the Sutlej River.
India 01-Jul-2023
The Khanna Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Amneet Kondal on July 1 revealed that the Khanna police in Punjab have arrested 211 smugglers and peddlers in 135 cases of drug smuggling and peddling in the past four months. She also revealed that between February 16 and June 30, the Khanna police in Punjab registered 135 cases under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act, leading to the arrest of 211 smugglers and peddlers. The recovered contraband includes 470.9 kg of poppy husk, 45.6 kg of ganja, 34.3 kg of opium, 1.5 kg of heroin, 157 gm of smack, 1.7 kg of charas, 341 gm of narcotics powder, 28 gm of ICE (party drug), 67,852 intoxicant pills and capsules, 294 syrups, and 81 poppy husk plants. In 73 cases, a significant quantity of drugs, such as 9.19 quintals of poppy husk, 22.2 kg of ganja, 152 gm of heroin, 10.05 kg of charas, 12 gm of smack, 42 gm of ICE, 17 gm of intoxicant powder, 56,319 intoxicant pills, 5,080 capsules, and 941 syrups were recovered and disposed of according to the procedures.
India 01-Jul-2023
Moga Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) J Elanchezhian revealed on July 1 that Lawrence Bishnoi, a gangster, was produced in a Moga court for charges related to an attempted murder case. He was brought from Bathinda Jail under tight security.
India 01-Jul-2023
Moga Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) J Elanchezhian revealed on July 1 that Lawrence Bishnoi, a gangster, was produced in a Moga court for charges related to an attempted murder case. He was brought from Bathinda Jail under tight security.
India 01-Jul-2023
The Fazilka Police, booked Naveen Kumar alias Arju Bishnoi, an aide of gangster Lawrence Bishnoi for allegedly supplying pistols to three contacts in Fazilka district of Punjab.
India 01-Jul-2023
During a meeting of the federation (Manjit) in Ludhiana, following the resignation of all office bearers, Manjit Singh established a 5-member coordination committee to foster unity and collaborate with other factions. Manjit Singh emphasized the necessity of unity in order to achieve the creation of Khalistan.
United States 02-Jul-2023
According to local reports, individuals associated with the Khalistani movement attempted to set fire to the Indian consulate in San Francisco, United States (US), between 1:30 am and 2:30 am on July 2. However, the San Francisco Fire Department promptly extinguished the flames.
Canada 02-Jul-2023
A 25-year-old Indo-Canadian gangster, identified as Karnvir Singh Garcha, was fatally shot on July 2 near Foster Avenue and North Road in Coquitlam in Burnaby in British Columbia, Canada. Garcha was previously identified as a significant threat due to his involvement in gang activities. Timothy Pierotti of the Integrated Homicide Investigation Team (IHIT) stated that IHIT is seeking information from individuals who had recent contact with Garcha, including the driver who dropped him off before the incident.
India 02-Jul-2023
The Punjab Police on July 2 under the direction of Punjab's Director General of Police (DGP) Gaurav Yadav, carried out a cordon and search operation called Operation (OPS) Vigil-II at vulnerable places in all 28 police districts of the state. This operation followed the previous OPS Vigil-I conducted in May. The operation involved checking at railway stations, bus stands, and setting up nakas for searching vehicles and individuals. Over 7,500 police personnel were deployed, and a total of 116 FIRs were registered during the operation. Special Director General of Police (Special DGP), law and order, Arpit Shukla revealed that during the operation, the police have filed 116 First Information Reports (FIRs) and apprehended 141 individuals. They confiscated 1.15 kg of heroin, 37 kg of poppy husk, 243 litres of illicit liquor, and six pistols/revolvers. Additionally, they seized INR 7.02 lakh in drug money. Three proclaimed offenders (POs) were arrested, and 1,826 suspicious individuals were detained for questioning. The police emphasized that such operations will continue to combat the menace of drugs and gangsters in the state.
United States 02-Jul-2023
The North American Punjabi Association (NAPA) executive director Satnam Singh Chahal, on July 2, urged the United States (US) Secretary of State Antony Blinken to address the surge in hate crimes and targeted attacks against Sikhs in the US. He emphasized that these attacks arise from a lack of awareness about Sikh beliefs and appearance, making Sikhs vulnerable to violence and discrimination.
India 03-Jul-2023
The Punjab Police on July 3 arrested two members of the Lawrence Bishnoi gang, identified as Jaswinder Singh alias Ghoda and Budhram, and seized a .32 bore pistol, four cartridges and a .315 bore pistol from their possession, after a brief exchange of gunfire, near Malkana village in Talwandi Sabo Tehlsil in Bathinda district. During the exchange of fire, Jaswinder Singh was injured and taken to the hospital, while Budhram was taken into custody. The gangsters were wanted in connection with extortion cases and are also under investigation for their alleged involvement in drug peddling.
India 03-Jul-2023
Punjab Special Director General of Police (DGP) Arpit Shukla on July 3, held a meeting in Pathankot to assess security arrangements for Amarnath pilgrims. The meeting discussed police deployment, security measures, traffic management, disaster preparedness, and the importance of close coordination among officers, security agencies, and civil administration for a smooth pilgrimage.
Canada 03-Jul-2023
The Indian High Commission in Ottawa, Canada, on June 3 sent a demarche to the Canadian Government seeking immediate measures against the Khalistan extremists responsible for the poster titled "Kill India" for their upcoming "Khalistan Freedom Rally", which threatened Indian officials, including Sanjay Kumar Verma, India's High Commissioner to Ottawa, and Apoorva Srivastava, Consul General in Toronto. The poster featured photos and designations of the two diplomats with the title "Faces of Shaheed Nijjar’s Killers in Toronto." According to the poster, the rally, named after Khalistani terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar, who was killed in Canada on June 18, is scheduled for July 8 in Toronto. This is not the first occasion on which India has issued a demarche to Canada; similar actions were taken in December 2020 and October 2022 concerning different matters.
India 03-Jul-2023
The National Investigation Agency (NIA) on July 3 confiscated the house of two brothers, identified as Bikramjit Singh alias Vicky and Maninder Singh from Amritsar, Punjab, accused in a Pakistan-sponsored narco-terror case. The property was seized under the Unlawful Activities Prevention Act (UAPA), as it was identified as "proceeds of terrorism." Earlier the NIA had arrested the brothers in connection with the case. The investigation has resulted in multiple charge sheets against 13 individuals, involving offenses under the UAPA, Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act, and the Indian Penal Code (IPC). The case revolves around a narco-terror module smuggling drugs from Pakistan disguised as rock salt, with the profits used to accumulate assets and finance Hizb-ul-Mujahideen (HM) terrorists in Jammu and Kashmir."
India 03-Jul-2023
The Punjab and Haryana High Court (HC) on July 3 requested a response from the union government and the state government regarding a petition filed by Jaspreet Kaur, the sister of pro-Khalistani extremist, Avtar Singh Khanda, to bring Khanda's body back from the United Kingdom (UK) for his last rites in their hometown of Moga, Punjab. Khanda was a primary suspect in the attack on the Indian High Commission in London, UK, and passed away in Birmingham, UK on June 15. The Bench of Justice Vinod S Bhardwaj has set a deadline of July 10 for a response on the matter.
India 03-Jul-2023
India's External Affairs Minister (EAM), S. Jaishankar, on July 3 expressed concern about an incident where two Indian diplomats were targeted in a Khalistan poster, accusing them of involvement in the killing of Khalistan Tiger Force (KTF) chief Hardeep Singh Nijjar. Jaishankar emphasized that such incidents would have an impact on bilateral relations and called on partner countries like the United States (US), United Kingdom (UK), Canada, and Australia to refrain from accommodating Khalistan extremists. The poster, circulating on social media, features the photos of Sanjay Kumar Verma, India's High Commissioner to Ottawa, and Apoorva Srivastava, Consul General in Toronto.
Portugal 04-Jul-2023
According to reports, Khalistani terrorists have established a new operational base in Portugal, adding to their existing bases in the United States (US), Canada, and the United Kingdom (UK). This development is seen as part of a larger conspiracy against India, with the aim of carrying out acts of terrorism. Reports indicate that Pakistan's Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) has provided illegal weapons from Portugal to criminals in Punjab, India facilitating criminal activities in India. Details regarding this network came to light after an unidentified person from Ferozepur, Punjab was apprehended along with weapons, including an AK-47, an MP-5 submachine gun, hand grenades and a pistol, in Portugal recently.
United States 04-Jul-2023
The spokesperson for the United States (US) State Department, Matthew Miller, on July 4, strongly condemned the reported vandalism and attempted arson at the Indian consulate in San Francisco, US, on July 2 by pro-Khalistan supporters.
India 04-Jul-2023
The Indian Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) on July 4 summoned the High Commissioner of Canada, Cameron MacKay, in New Delhi. The MEA lodged a complaint after posters titled "Kill India" by Sikhs For Justice (SFJ) for an upcoming "Khalistan Freedom Rally" surfaced on social media. These posters featured threats from Khalistani extremists directed towards Indian diplomats, namely Sanjay Kumar Verma, India's High Commissioner to Ottawa, and Apoorva Srivastava, Consul General in Toronto. The posters displayed photos and designations of the two diplomats with the title "Faces of Shaheed Nijjar’s Killers in Toronto”.
Canada 04-Jul-2023
The Canadian Minister of Foreign Affairs (MFA) Melanie Joly on July 4 emphasized Canada's commitment to the safety of diplomats under the Vienna Conventions and reiterated that Canada maintains close communication with Indian officials regarding objectionable promotional materials and posters circulating online.
Canada 04-Jul-2023
The Canadian Minister of National Defence Anita Anand on July 4 affirmed that the posters for the July 8 Khalistan event are unacceptable and do not represent Canadians, while emphasizing Canada's responsibility to ensure the safety of foreign diplomats in the country. The security concerns regarding Indian missions and diplomats have heightened due to the circulation of a poster by pro-Khalistan elements featuring violent imagery, the phrase 'Kill India,' and photographs of Indian diplomats including Sanjay Kumar Verma, India's High Commissioner to Ottawa, and Apoorva Srivastava, Consul General in Toronto.
United States 04-Jul-2023
The Indian community in the United States (US) on July 4 expressed concern over the arson attack on the Indian consulate in San Francisco and urged authorities to swiftly investigate and respond to prevent further attacks. Sukhi Chahal, a rights activist and chairman of the Punjab Foundation, emphasized the need to hold the perpetrators accountable. The State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller also condemned the violence against diplomatic facilities, deeming it a criminal offense.
Australia 04-Jul-2023
According to a report by Australia Today, on July 4, a new poster was circulating on social media, released by the banned terrorist group Sikhs For Justice (SFJ), targeting Indian High Commissioner Manpreet Vohra and Consul General Sushil Kumar in Melbourne, Australia. The poster accuses Indian diplomats in Australia of being the "killers" of a wanted Khalistani terrorist and Khalistan Tiger Force (KTF) chief, Hardeep Singh Nijjar, who was recently killed in Canada. The Indian government strongly condemned the targeting of Indian diplomats in Australia and is actively engaged with Australian officials on the matter.
Australia 04-Jul-2023
The spokesperson of the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT), Australia on July 4 emphasized in a statement that the Australian government, in accordance with its obligations under the Vienna Convention, is committed to ensuring the security of foreign missions and their staff. The statement further emphasized that hate speech, violence, and threats of violence will not be tolerated in Australia, and any threat against accredited officials will be thoroughly investigated.
India 05-Jul-2023
Pro-Khalistani leader and chief of Waris Punjab De (WDP), Amritpal Singh, along with other Sikh detainees in Dibrugarh jail in Assam, wrote a letter to their relatives, appealing to the Sikh community to bestow the status of "Quomi Shaheed" (community martyrs) upon Avtar Singh Khanda, the deceased chief of the Khalistan Liberation Force (KLF), Hardeep Singh Nijjar, the deceased chief of the Khalistan Tiger Force (KTF), and the head of the Canadian arm of Sikhs For Justice (SFJ). The letter, dated July 5, is signed by Amritpal Singh, his uncle Harjit Singh, Pappalpreet Singh, Daljit Singh Kalsi, Kulwant Singh, Bhagwant Singh, Basant Singh, Sarabjit Singh, Surinder Singh, and Gurmeet Singh Aujla.
United Kingdom 05-Jul-2023
On July 5, a number of anonymous Twitter accounts surfaced, sharing posters created by Sikhs For Justice (SFJ), which were promoting a "Kill India" rally in London, United Kingdom (UK) on July 8. The posters falsely implicated two Indian diplomats, Vikram Kumar Doraiswami, the High Commissioner of India to the UK, and Dr. Shashank Vikram, Consul General of India in Birmingham, UK, in the alleged assassination of Hardeep Singh Nijjar, a Khalistani terrorist and the leader of the Khalistan Tiger Force (KTF). Additionally, one of the tweets included a video by Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, the chief of SFJ, accusing Indian diplomats worldwide of being accountable for Nijjar's murder.
Canada 05-Jul-2023
An Indian-origin Member of Parliament (MP) and Liberal Party politician in Canada, Chandra Arya on July 5 strongly criticized the pro-Khalistani posters labelling Indian diplomats as "killers," and warned that these elements are becoming increasingly provocative and dangerous. Arya expressed concern about the potential for violence, referring to recent incidents such as a pro-Khalistan rally in Brampton, Canada, celebrating the assassination of former Indian Prime Minister (PM) Indira Gandhi. The Indian government had earlier summoned the Canadian envoy and issued a demarche, urging Canada to take appropriate measures against pro-Khalistani activities. Canada has assured India of the safety of its diplomats and condemned the circulating promotional material for the Khalistan rally.
United States 05-Jul-2023
Social media platforms on July 5 were flooded with rumours of the alleged death of Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, the chief of banned Sikhs For Justice (SFJ), in a car accident on Highway 101 in California, United States (US). However, US-based Sikh leader and editor-in-chief of The Khalsa Today, Sukhi Chahal, dismissed the news of Gurpatwant Singh Pannun's alleged death in a car accident, stating that it was false and urging people not to spread misinformation.
India 05-Jul-2023
According to law enforcement officials tracking Khalistani operatives, there are approximately 300 active sleeper cells operating in India. The motive of these cells is not to take innocent lives but rather to engage in activities that create a perception of weakness in the Indian state and foster disillusionment among Punjab's citizens. The recent arrests of some Khalistani operatives have also confirmed the existence of a robust Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) network from Pakistan, which provides support to the separatist movement. The involvement of sleeper cells becomes significant as many top Khalistani proponents are based outside of India, particularly in Pakistan, Canada, the United States (US), and Australia. Attacks on Indian diplomatic locations worldwide, including the recent arson at the Indian Consulate in San Francisco, US, have highlighted the ongoing threat posed by Khalistan operatives.
United Arab Emirates 05-Jul-2023
Interpol, on July 5, updated its website and issued red corner notices (global arrest warrants) against two gangsters, Vikramjit Singh based in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), and Kapil Sangwan based in the United Kingdom (UK). Singh is associated with gang leader Lawrence Bishnoi and acts as a link between Bishnoi's gang and Khalistani terrorists. Sangwan runs his own gang in Delhi National Capital Region (NCR) and is suspected of ordering the killing of Bharatiya Janata Party's (BJP) Delhi Kisan Morcha leader Surendra Matiala. The National Investigation Agency (NIA) has found that the gangs send money generated through extortion to Canada, the United States (US), Dubai, Thailand, and Australia for the use of their operatives abroad and for supporting pro-Khalistan elements. The NIA has established a close association between these criminal gangs and Khalistani groups, posing a challenge to security forces due to their shared resources and involvement in illicit activities.
United States 05-Jul-2023
English newspapers on July 5 published critical editorials regarding the role of local administrations in Western countries in allowing pro-Khalistani radicalism to flourish. These editorials coincided with the news of the Indian Consulate in San Francisco being set on fire by a Khalistani group and the circulation of posters targeting Indian diplomats. The editorials highlighted instances of similar activities being allowed in the past and urged Western nations, including the United States (US), Canada, the United Kingdom (UK), and Australia, to take stronger action against religious secessionists. They emphasized the need for reviewing asylum norms and cracking down on extremist elements to avoid adverse impacts on bilateral ties and security. The editorials also called for a commensurate response from local authorities and highlighted the importance of criminal proceedings and pre-emptive measures to address the threat posed by Khalistani extremists.
India 05-Jul-2023
Khanna Police on July 5 arrested five members of an inter-state weapon supply gang, identified as Suresh Kumar, Gautam Sharma Goru, Rajinder Meena, Sardar Gujjar and Taqdeer Singh and seized five .32 country-made bore pistols, 10 magazines, and a vehicle, near focal point in Khanna, in Ludhiana district of Punjab. According to Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Khanna, Amneet Kondal, acting on a tip-off, the police stopped a car with a Rajasthan registration plate during a barricading operation and recovered weapons from four suspects. Further investigation revealed that the accused sourced the arms and ammunition from a man named Taqdeer, who was arrested on July 5 from Singnur in Khargon district of Madhya Pradesh.
Canada 06-Jul-2023
Canadian Prime Minister (PM) Justin Trudeau, addressing a press conference in Ottawa, on July 6, responded to New Delhi's accusation that his government has failed to address the Khalistani extremist campaign in Canada. Trudeau stated that Canada is a highly diverse nation where freedom of expression is valued and that Canada takes violence and threats seriously. His remarks came days after India summoned the Canadian envoy in New Delhi on July 3 and issued a demarche over the increasing activities by pro-Khalistani elements in Canada.
India 06-Jul-2023
The spokesperson of the Indian Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), Arindam Bagchi emphasized on July 6 that the promotion of violence, separatism, or terrorism should not be permitted under the pretext of freedom of expression, in direct response to Canadian Prime Minister (PM) Justin Trudeau's remarks. He strongly condemned the pro-Khalistan posters that incite violence against Indian diplomats and diplomatic premises abroad. Bagchi also stated that India is urging the Canadian government to guarantee the ability of Indian diplomats and consular officials to perform their regular duties in Canada without intimidation or fear. Meanwhile, New Delhi has also raised the issue of threats against its diplomats with the authorities of the United Kingdom (UK), United States (US), and Australia. Some observers have noted that the authorities in the US acted promptly, while in other countries, the response was considered inadequate or insufficient in dealing with Khalistani terrorists. Ajay Bisaria, former envoy to Canada, views the planned rally and poster campaign as a sign of desperation rather than a resurgence for Khalistani groups. The groups like Sikhs For Justice (SFJ) feel cornered after Nijjar's death and Pannun's hiding and they fear that India's influence is prompting host governments to take action against them.
India 06-Jul-2023
The Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) has provided security escorts to Indian diplomats in Toronto and Vancouver, Canada in light of concerns raised by the Canadian Security and Intelligence Service (CSIS) about the rising radicalization among Khalistan separatists in Canada. Canada’s political leadership has yet to openly denounce the threats and violence by Khalistan extremists, potentially driven by vote bank politics. In response to planned protest rallies in Toronto and Vancouver, the RCMP and CSIS maintain close communication with the Indian High Commission and Consulates in Canada, providing escorts and assigning two officers to senior diplomats in these cities.
India 06-Jul-2023
India's National Security Adviser (NSA), Ajit Doval, is set to address concerns regarding the activities of pro-Khalistan radicals during his meeting with United Kingdom (UK) counterpart Tim Barrow on July 7 at Sardar Patel Bhawan in New Delhi, India. In the meeting, Doval is expected to discuss the issue of Indian diplomats being targeted by Khalistani extremists through a protest rally scheduled for July 8 outside the Indian High Commission in London, UK. Doval is likely to seek assurances from Barrow regarding the protection of Indian diplomats in the UK and the prevention of extremist activities within Indian diplomatic premises. The meeting follows the mysterious death of Avtar Singh Khanda, the UK-based chief of the Khalistan Liberation Force (KLF) and alleged handler of separatist Amritpal Singh. While Doval has maintained communication with Barrow regarding the surge of pro-Khalistan extremism in the UK and its potential impact on bilateral relations, India remains concerned about the perceived leniency of the British authorities towards the issue.
United Kingdom 06-Jul-2023
James Cleverly, the foreign secretary of the United Kingdom (UK), on July 6 expressed the UK government's strong disapproval of any direct assaults on the High Commission of India in London, stating that such actions would be deemed entirely unacceptable. He also stated that the UK government has communicated to the Indian High Commissioner to the UK, Vikram Doraiswami and the Government of India that ensuring the safety of staff at the High Commission is of utmost importance.
United States 06-Jul-2023
On July 6, a video surfaced on social media of Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, the chief of the Sikhs For Justice (SFJ), standing outside the United Nations (UN) headquarters in New York City, United States (US), threatening Indian diplomats. The video is allegedly taken on July 5, wherein Pannun blamed Indian diplomats for the death of Hardeep Singh Nijjar, a Khalistani terrorist and the chief of the Khalistan Tiger Force (KTF), while urging Sikhs to vote on a Khalistan referendum. Pannun also admitted to being responsible for the creation of "kill posters" targeting Indian diplomats stationed in Canada, the United Kingdom (UK), and the US. 'Yes, we will hold Sandhu-Verma-Doraiswami-Malhotra-Vohra, the Indian diplomats in the US, Canada, UK, Italy, and Australia accountable for the assassination of Shaheed Nijjar,' Pannun said in the video. He further stated that the Sikh community would besiege Indian embassies worldwide on August 15.
India 06-Jul-2023
Arindam Bagchi, the spokesperson of the Indian Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) on July 6, stated that the video of Khalistani terrorist and chief of Sikhs For Justice (SFJ) Gurpatwant Singh Pannun in front of the United Nations (UN) headquarters in New York City, United States (US) does not grant any legitimacy to the Khalistani referendum or the cause and that India has been addressing similar threats with Canadian authorities.
India 06-Jul-2023
Dal Khalsa representatives Kanwar Pal Singh and Paramjit Singh Mand expressed their organization's disagreement with attributing blame to Khalistanis for the fire at the Indian Consulate in San Francisco, United States (US). While accusing it of being a conspiracy to defame the Khalistanis, they stated that it amounts to a trial by the media without proper investigation or evidence.
Pakistan 07-Jul-2023
A drone carrying six kilograms of heroin crashed in the Halloki area of Lahore, Pakistan on July 7. According to Pakistan police, the drone was eventually recovered from Rasoolpura village, which is close to the India-Pakistan border. India’s Border Security Forces (BSF) sources reported increased drone activities near Pakistani border outposts across Ferozepur and Amritsar sectors in Punjab, with Pakistan allegedly utilizing "dummy drones" for smuggling weapons, drugs, and explosives.
India 07-Jul-2023
The Punjab and Haryana High Court on July 7 acknowledged the severity of the drug problem in Punjab and Haryana, emphasizing the need for strong action against it as youth are increasingly becoming victims.
India 07-Jul-2023
Police arrested a woman, identified as Gurdeep Kaur along with 73 grams of intoxicants during a routine checking operation near Kalewal Lallian village in Hoshiarpur District of Punjab on July 7.
India 07-Jul-2023
The Model Town police arrested two smugglers, identified as Pawan Kumar Handa and Avinash Kumar alias Abhi, and seized 650 intoxicating pills from them near Model Town in Hoshiarpur district on July 7.