KHALISTAN EXTREMISM MONITOR
A project of the Institute for Conflict Management
A project of the Institute for Conflict Management
India 07-Jul-2023
Bullowal police arrested a person, identified as Gurpreet Singh alias Kaka, and recovered 27 grams of intoxicant powder from him near Bulhowal village in Hoshiarpur district on July 7.
India 07-Jul-2023
The police arrested Raja alias Rahul, a proclaimed offender (PO) wanted in a case of drug peddling registered in 2019, who was absconding for the past six days near Mohalla Bhag Wala village in Jalandhar district.
India 07-Jul-2023
According to reports, growing concerns arise as pro-Khalistan separatists plan rallies targeting Indian diplomatic missions and diplomats in the United States (US), the United Kingdom (UK), Canada, and Australia. Indian officials have engaged in discussions with counterparts in these countries to enhance security measures. The alarming nature of the threats, including attacks, arson attempts, and vandalism, highlights an escalation in separatist activity overseas. It is crucial for the concerned countries to prioritize the protection of Indian diplomatic interests, investigate, and prevent potential acts of violence. Cooperation, information sharing, and discussions on solutions are essential to address the rising violence by these groups.
India 07-Jul-2023
At a meeting held in Hyderabad on June 7, the Indian National Security Advisor (NSA) Ajit Doval urged his United Kingdom (UK) counterpart, Sir Tim Barrow, to take strong public action, such as deportation or legal prosecution, against pro-Khalistan extremist elements who have threatened Indian officials. The concerns arose after posters for the rallies singled out Indian diplomats in the UK, Canada, Australia, and the United States (US) as targets, which were uploaded on Twitter. Both countries have agreed to collaborate closely on counterterrorism, terror financing, and counter-radicalization.
India 07-Jul-2023
Intelligence sources expressed growing concern over the increasing collaboration between Khalistani groups and gangsters in the United Kingdom (UK). According to these sources, there is a noticeable trend where gangsters are becoming part of the terrorist ecosystem and are being utilized by terror groups to target vulnerable locations. Sources reveal that gangsters are operating on behalf of terrorist groups in Dubai, Pakistan, and Khalistani groups in the UK. According to investigations conducted by the National Investigation Agency (NIA) and federal agencies, Khalistani groups like the Khalistan Liberation Force (KLF) and Babbar Khalsa International (BKI) have established connections with gangsters such as Arsh Dalla, Goldy Brar, and Lawrence Bishnoi. These groups have been involved in targeted killings, including the killing of Pradeep Kumar, a follower of Dera Sacha Sauda. Gangsters have fled to countries like Pakistan, Canada, Malaysia, and Australia, where they plan and finance criminal activities using methods like Hawala and extortion. Federal agencies have conducted raids, filed cases against Hawala operators, and targeted various individuals and entities involved in financing, weapons supply, logistics, and social media management. It has been revealed that funds collected for gurdwaras and langars are being diverted towards criminal activities. Young individuals born after 1984 are being utilized for these operations, with handlers based in the UK or Pakistan.
India 07-Jul-2023
National Sikh conclave which was held on July 7 in Delhi, formed an 11-member committee to engage with the government regarding the Uniform Civil Code (UCC) to protect Sikh rights and practices. The Delhi Sikh Gurdwara Management Committee (DSGMC) President Harmit Singh Kalka and DSGMC general secretary Jagdip Singh Kahlon emphasized the need to review the UCC draft before deciding to support or oppose it.
India 07-Jul-2023
The Border Security Forces (BSF) on July 7 successfully intercepted a Pakistani drone that violated Indian airspace near Pallopati village in Tarn Taran sector, in Tarn Taran district. The BSF successfully recovered the drone - a Quadcopter of model - DJI Matrice 350 RTK series – which was suspected to be carrying narcotics.
United Kingdom 08-Jul-2023
The pro-Khalistan protest outside the Indian High Commission in London, United Kingdom (UK) on July 8 concluded with a low number of participants. A modest gathering of 30-40 individuals supporting Khalistan was witnessed between 12:30 pm and 2:30 pm local time on July 8. The security in the area was beefed up with the UK police calling in additional forces to the spot. The demonstration, organized in response to the killing of Khalistani terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar in Canada, lasted for a shorter duration than planned. Protesters displayed banners blaming India's High Commissioner Vikram Doraiswami and Consul General in Birmingham, Shashank Vikram for Nijjar's death, along with posters expressing support for Pakistan.
United States 08-Jul-2023
Indian Ambassador to the United States (US), Taranjit Singh Sandhu on July 8 conducted an inspection of the Indian embassy in Washington DC and its premises in response to threats of pro-Khalistan protests. According to the Metropolitan police, there were no signs of disorder or protests outside the Indian consulate. Security measures were also heightened at Indian Consulate in San Francisco, US to prevent untoward incidents following previous attempted arson and threats against Indian diplomats.
India 08-Jul-2023
On July 8, Punjab Health and Family Welfare Minister Dr. Balbir Singh kick-started a campaign against drugs from Roungla village in Patiala tehsil of Patiala district.
India 08-Jul-2023
Three gangsters, identified as Manraj Singh, Navjot Singh and Ravinder Singh were arrested by the police following an encounter in Bhilowal village near Chabbewal town in Hoshiarpur district on July 8. The police recovered three 7.65 mm pistols from the arrested suspects, who were allegedly working for Balwinder Singh alias Binder, residing in the United States (US).
India 08-Jul-2023
The executive committee of the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC) on July 8, rejected the proposed Uniform Civil Code (UCC) put forth by the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) led Central Government. The SGPC has formed a sub-committee consisting of Sikh intellectuals, historians, scholars, and lawyers to examine the Uniform Civil Code (UCC), and after an initial review, the sub-committee has disapproved of the proposed code.
Canada 08-Jul-2023
Approximately 250 Khalistani supporters assembled outside the Indian Consulate in Toronto, Canada on July 8 for a protest rally, while a pro-India rally took place on the opposite side of the street. The two groups were separated by barricades and a strong police presence. Though the pro-Khalistan group made an attempt to breach the barricade and confront the pro-India contingent, they were pushed back by the police. Two protesters were arrested, one of whom was charged with assaulting a police officer. The pro-Khalistan group displayed posters alleging the Indian establishment's involvement in the murder of Khalistani terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar. Several protesters donned jackets bearing the slogan "Republic of Khalistan" and advocated for the upcoming phase of the Punjab Referendum in the Greater Toronto Area (GTA) on July 16.
India 08-Jul-2023
India requested enhanced security measures for 11 missions and consulates located in Australia, the United States (US), the United Kingdom (UK), and Europe due to potential threats arising from planned Pro-Khalistani rallies on July 8. Although no incidents were reported during the scheduled protests, India continues to prioritize strong security measures to address future threats. Indian missions in various countries, including Australia, New Zealand, Italy, Canada, the US, and the UK, have been placed on high alert. Specific missions in London (UK), Frankfurt (Germany), New York, San Francisco, Atlanta, and Washington DC in the US, as well as Vancouver and Ottawa in Canada, have also been notified.
Italy 08-Jul-2023
Khalistani protestors on July 8 burned and desecrated the Indian national flag, the Tiranga, in Rome, Italy. Videos circulating on social media showed the flags being burned, along with an incident where a pro-India man was assaulted by a Khalistani radical while attempting to retrieve the flag. Khalistan flags were prominently displayed during a 'Kill India' rally.
United States 08-Jul-2023
Pro-Khalistan protesters on July 8 demonstrated outside the Indian Consulate in San Francisco, United States (US). They chanted anti-India slogans, held placards calling for independence from India, displayed Khalistan flags, and wielded a large sword as a symbol.
Canada 08-Jul-2023
Bharat Mata Mandir, a temple in Brampton within the Greater Toronto Area (GTA), was desecrated with a poster targeting Indian diplomats placed in front of it in Canada on July 8. The poster, associated with the secessionist group Sikhs For Justice (SFJ), was discovered outside the temple and displayed images of Indian diplomats. Pro-Khalistan individuals, potentially linked to handles based in Pakistan, further propagated a video showcasing the poster's placement.
Australia 08-Jul-2023
The pro-Khalistani protest held outside the Indian Consulate in St Kilda Road, Melbourne, Australia on July 8 witnessed a significantly low turnout. During the protest, Khalistani supporters engaged in physical pushing and verbal abuse directed toward Jai Bharadwaj, the editor of The Australia Today. The protesters aimed to intimidate Bharadwaj, who had been covering their propaganda protest. Disturbing posters featuring India's top diplomats were widely circulated, raising concerns about the safety of Indian officials.
Australia 08-Jul-2023
According to intelligence sources, India had raised concerns over threats to its diplomats in the Khalistan posters that were being circulated. According to sources at Australia Today, the Indian Consulate in Melbourne had two separate briefings with the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) and Australian Federal Police (AFP) officials regarding the threats received.
India 09-Jul-2023
In a joint operation, the Punjab Police and the Border Security Force (BSF) on July 9 recovered a Pakistani drone from Kakkar village in Amritsar sector in Amritsar district. The recovered drone is an assembled Quadcopter.
India 09-Jul-2023
Former Indian Ambassador Anil Trigunayat on July 9 highlighted that the low turnout at the anti-India rallies is a setback for Khalistani extremists and separatists who have been making threats against Indian diplomats and engaging in anti-India activities. He urged foreign countries to prohibit seditious activities if they intend to uphold a strategic partnership and maintain a special relationship with India.
India 09-Jul-2023
Kirandeep Kaur, the wife of Amritpal Singh, the chief of Waris Punjab De (WPD), on July 9 issued a statement alleging the misuse of her photographs to create fake profiles on social media platforms. She expressed concern that these fraudulent accounts are disseminating false information and promoting hatred and conflict.
India 10-Jul-2023
Amritpal Singh, a Pro-Khalistan activist and the chief of Waris Punjab De (WPD), along with Harjit Singh, Sarabjeet Singh Kalsi, and Varinder Singh Fauji, on July 10 approached Punjab and Haryana High Court (HC) to challenge the order by the Amritsar Deputy Commissioner (DC) that denied them the right to consult and be defended by a lawyer of their choice.
India 10-Jul-2023
Giani Raghbir Singh, the Jathedar of Sri Akal Takht on July 10, in Amritsar, expressed significant worry about the flood-like conditions in the state of Punjab. He has called upon the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC) and all Sikh organizations to provide assistance to the individuals affected by the heavy rains.
Canada 10-Jul-2023
Canadian senior journalist Terry Milewski, in an interview with Australia Today on July 11, explained that the purpose of the pro-Khalistani "Freedom Day" rallies, which took place on July 8 in various cities and received little attention in the mainstream media, is to depict India as a genocidal state. This portrayal ignores the fact that the majority of Sikhs reside in India and do not perceive themselves as victims of genocide, he said.
India 10-Jul-2023
According to sources, Indian security officials suspect that Hardeep Singh Nijjar, the slain Khalistani terrorist, was involved in the killing of Ripudaman Singh Malik, an ex-Khalistani who was accused of masterminding the 1985 Air India bombing. Nijjar had an alliance with Punjab gangster Arshdeep Singh alias Arsh Dalla, who fled to Canada and worked as a muscleman for Nijjar. Both Nijjar and Malik were targeted in gangland-style killings, highlighting the involvement of Canadian gangsters, many of whom are from the Punjabi diaspora. The presence of gangsters and the turning of a blind eye to Khalistani activities in Canada by local authorities due to vote bank politics pose a danger of Khalistan gaining traction there. The narco-terror nexus involving Punjab gangsters and Khalistani elements in Canada exacerbates the situation, the report added.
India 11-Jul-2023
The United States (US) Ambassador Eric Garcetti, on July 11 met with Union Home Minister (UHM) Amit Shah in New Delhi to discuss enhancing bilateral cooperation in counter-terrorism, drug trafficking, and national security. The meeting aimed to build upon the positive outcomes of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's recent visit to the US. The discussion gains significance in light of recent attacks by pro-Khalistan activists on the Indian consulate in San Francisco, US.
India 11-Jul-2023
Two members of the Bambiha gang, identified as Surinder Lal alias Rahul and Surinder Pal, were arrested by the Faridkot police after an encounter near Bir Sikhan Wala village Kot Kapura Tehsil in Faridkot district of Punjab on July 11. During the encounter, one of the criminals sustained a gunshot injury in the leg. According to Faridkot Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Harjeet Singh, the arrested individuals were involved in an extortion racket and linked to a recent firing incident in Jaitu town in Faridkot district of Punjab. They were acting on the instructions of gangster Deepak Maan, another member of the Bambiha gang known for making extortion threats in the area.
India 11-Jul-2023
The Amritsar Police on July 11 arrested three gangsters, identified as Paramdilip Singh alias Pamma alias Sukhchain Singh, Abhishek Mahajan, and Sonu Goswam and recovered Two 9-mm and .32 bore pistols, a motorcycle, a jammer and a mobile phone from Kosi Kalan area in Mathura district of Uttar Pradesh (UP). According to police, the accused were getting financial and other aid from two Australia-based entities, who were identified as Ankush Kumar, alias Bahman, and Rittik Rally.
Canada 11-Jul-2023
Jeff Lal, the President of the Brampton Bharat Mata Mandir (Temple) in Canada's Greater Toronto Area (GTA), expressed his concerns on July 11 in a letter addressed to Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau regarding the rise of anti-India and anti-Hindu activities, including defacement by pro-Khalistan elements. The temple president expressed genuine worries about the safety of the priests living on the temple premises. The temple's president highlighted the need for immediate action by Canadian authorities to address this issue. Recently, posters targeting Indian officials were found in front of the temple, adding to previous incidents of such targeting.
India 11-Jul-2023
Punjab Police’s Anti-Gangster Task Force (AGTF) on July 11 arrested a key member of the Lawrence Bishnoi gang, identified as Randhir Singh alias Commando alias Fauji and recovered a pistol and ten live cartridges from him in an unspecified location in Punjab. According to Punjab's Director General of Police (DGP), Gaurav Yadav, Singh had been assigned by his handlers to target specific individuals and assist in the escape of a jailed associate during court appearances. With this arrest, potential sensational crimes in Punjab and Haryana have been averted.
India 11-Jul-2023
Delhi Police’s Special Cell on July 11 arrested a gangster, identified as Rohit Sharma alias Anna, and recovered a 32-bore pistol and 4 live cartridges from him
India 12-Jul-2023
Police on July 12 arrested two individuals, identified as Gurvinder Singh Bhinda and Analaveet Singh and seized 200 kg of poppy husk from their truck in Khuiyan Sarwar village in Ferozepur district. The onion carrying truck was travelling from Rajasthan to Punjab.
India 12-Jul-2023
Several Border Security Force (BSF) border outposts were inundated and were subsequently evacuated due to floodwaters on July 12, in Ferozepur district of Punjab.
India 12-Jul-2023
On July 12, Pro-Khalistani graffiti and slogans were spotted outside the office and residence of the Deputy Commissioner (DC) and the Forest Department Building in Barnala in Barnala district. Later, in a video, Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, the leader of Sikhs For Justice (SFJ), claimed responsibility for the graffiti.
United States 12-Jul-2023
A new poster promoting another pro-Khalistan 'freedom rally' to be held in New York City (NYC), United States (US), on July 15, surfaced on social media on July 12. Similar to previous posters, this one also specifically targets Indian diplomats, Taranjit Sandhu, the Indian Ambassador to the US, and Ranadhir Jaiswal, the Consul General of India in New York. As per the poster, the rally will commence at the Gurudwara Sikh Centre in NYC and proceed to the Consulate General of India in NYC.
India 12-Jul-2023
In a video circulated on social media on July 12, Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, Khalistani leader and the chief of Sikhs For Justice (SFJ), threatened to avenge the death of Khalistan Tiger Force (KTF) leader Hardeep Singh Nijjar and disrupt the upcoming 2023 Cricket World Cup. In the video, which depicted graphics of a grenade attack on the Narendra Modi stadium in Ahmedabad, Gujarat, Pannun called for halting the Cricket tournament until Sikh self-determination is achieved.
India 12-Jul-2023
A video went viral on social media on July 12 in which an individual dressed in Nihang robes is seen offering namaz, sparking outrage within the Sikh community. Bhai Amrik Singh Ajnala, the chief of a breakaway faction of Damdami Taksal, strongly condemned the act, considering it a violation of Sikh identity and disrespectful to religious sentiments. The person in the video, identified as Boota Singh Inderjit, defended his actions, claiming unity among religions and citing a shabad from Gurbani. The video was reportedly recorded months ago but recently gained attention online.
India 13-Jul-2023
Waris Punjab De’s (WPD) chief Amritpal Singh's wife, Kirandeep Kaur, and Daljit Singh Kalsi's wife, Neeru Kalsi, along with their son Simarjeet Sunny Singh Kalsi on July 13 visited Dibrugarh Central Jail in Assam to meet their imprisoned family members. The visit follows allegations that Amritpal Singh gave a letter to his wife during her previous visit, in which he urged the Sikh community to reject drugs and adhere to religious principles while seeking martyr status for two recently deceased Pro-Khalistan terrorists.
India 13-Jul-2023
The British High Commissioner to India, Alex Ellis, on July 13 emphasized the United Kingdom (UK) government's strong stance against any form of extremism, including pro-Khalistan and anti-India protests in the UK. He mentioned that security advisors from both countries recently discussed the matter, highlighting the UK's commitment to dealing firmly with extremism through legal measures and regulations.
India 13-Jul-2023
Dal Khalsa, a pro-Khalistani outfit, has raised the issues Sikhs are facing in India with the United States (US) government. Through a communique, originally intended for United States (US) diplomats in India, it highlighted concerns regarding the misuse of oppressive laws against Sikh dissidents, detentions under the Unlawful Activities Prevention Act (UAPA) and the National Security Act (NSA), social media censorship, and state interference in Sikh religious affairs.
India 13-Jul-2023
Four prisoners identified as Simranjit Singh, Surinder Singh, Amanpreet Singh, and Varinder Singh, were injured in a gang war that took place early in the morning of July 13 in Kapurthala Modern Jail in Kapurthala.
India 13-Jul-2023
The Punjab and Haryana High Court (HC) on July 13 dismissed Waris Punjab De (WPD) chief Amritpal Singh's plea to quash an order by the Amritsar Deputy Commissioner (DC) that allegedly denied him and three others the right to be defended by a lawyer of their choice.
Australia 14-Jul-2023
A 23-year-old Indian student was attacked by Khalistani supporters with iron rods on Rupert Street in Merrylands in Sydney, Australia, on July 14. The injured Indian student reported the incident to the New South Wales (NSW) Police, who then escorted him to Westmead Hospital in Sydney. The victim was allegedly targeted for expressing opposition to Khalistani extremist activities. The attackers, chanting "Khalistan Zindabad," launched a surprise assault on him as he was entering his vehicle, beating him and recording the incident.
Canada 14-Jul-2023
In an official communique, India's High Commission in Ottawa, Canada, has expressed its concern to Global Affairs Canada, the country's foreign ministry, regarding the upcoming Khalistan referendum organized by the banned Khalistan outfit, Sikhs For Justice (SFJ), scheduled for July 16. According to sources, unlike the previous referendum in Brampton, Canada, permission to use a public community centre for the upcoming referendum has been denied. Meanwhile, India's High Commissioner to Ottawa, Sanjay Kumar Verma, has stated that the illegal referendum organized by SFJ is intended to disrupt Canada-India relations. However, he emphasized that millions of peaceful Indo-Canadians will counter such efforts, as demonstrated during a gathering in Toronto on July 8. Letters are being sent to Canadian officials, including Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and Mayor of Mississauga Bonnie Crombie, urging them to address the issue promptly and prevent the spread of hatred and misinformation.
Canada 14-Jul-2023
According to sources, three Khalistan supporters, identified as Satbir Singh alias Satta Naushera, Jaswinder Singh and Parminder Singh, believed to be involved in attacks on police establishments in Punjab in 2022, were detained in Canada. They were suspected of illegal entry and potentially using forged Portuguese passports and were detained by the Canadian Border Services Agency (CBSA) at Toronto's Pearson International Airport after arriving from London last month. According to a senior Punjab Police official, the three Khalistani activists, who are close associates of Lakhbir Singh Landa, have been detained in Canada. These individuals were allegedly involved in planning the RPG attack on Punjab Police's Intelligence wing headquarters in May 2022 and the attack on a police station in Tarn Taran, Punjab, in December 2022. Meanwhile, Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, the chief of Sikhs For Justice (SFJ), has offered to coordinate the legal defense of these individuals in relation to their campaign for the Khalistan referendum in Punjab.
India 14-Jul-2023
The Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) on July 14 officially conveyed its opposition to a Uniform Civil Code (UCC) and emphasized that implementing a UCC would not be in the nation's best interest.
India 14-Jul-2023
The Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC) on July 14 announced that it would be broadcasting Gurbani recitals from Golden Temple on its YouTube channel starting from July 24, taking back the rights from the PTC channel.
India 14-Jul-2023
The Anti-gangster Task Force (AGTF) and Bathinda Police on July 14 arrested Baljinder Singh alias Bindri, an alleged member of the Lawrence Bishnoi gang and his three accomplices and recovered a Chinese pistol, five cartridges and 270 grams of heroin from them in Bathinda. According to the Director General of Police (DGP) Gaurav Yadav, the investigation revealed that the gang members used drones to smuggle arms and narcotics across the Indo-Pak border, and the suspects have a criminal history with numerous cases related to extortion, kidnapping, and arms and narcotics offenses against them.
Pakistan 14-Jul-2023
According to reports, a drone carrying heroin crashed in agricultural fields near Hadiara area of Lahore on July 14. Five packets of heroin suspected to be worth millions of rupees were recovered by the police, both the drone and the heroin were handed over to the Anti-Narcotics Force (ANF) for further investigation.
India 14-Jul-2023
The Chief Khalsa Diwan (CKD), a central organization comprising various Singh Sabhas across Punjab, on July 14, expressed strong opposition to the implementation of the Uniform Civil Code (UCC) proposed by the Central government in India. In a joint statement, CKD President Dr Inderbir Singh Nijjar, Vice-President Jagjit Singh, and other members emphasized that in a vast and diverse country like India, implementing a single civil code for different religions is likely to encounter numerous challenges.
Canada 14-Jul-2023
The signboard of Shri Bhagavad Gita Park in Brampton, in the Greater Toronto Area (GTA) in Canada, was defaced with graffiti that targeted Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The graffiti spray-painted on the signboard, which read 'Modi is Terrorist (BBC),' was discovered on the morning of July 14.
United States 14-Jul-2023
A group of Indian-Americans gathered outside the Indian consulate in San Francisco, United States (US), on July 14 to express solidarity with India and its diplomats after a failed arson attempt by pro-Khalistan supporters earlier. Banners with messages denouncing the attack as an act of terrorism were displayed during the demonstration.
India 15-Jul-2023
Anti-Gangster Task Force (AGTF) and Bathinda Police arrested four members of the Goldy Brar-Lawrence Bishnoi gang and recovered one Chinese pistol and five live cartridges, along with 270 gm of heroin and one car from their possession in Bathinda in Bathinda District on July 15. Director General of Police (DGP) Punjab, Gaurav Yadav informed there are a number of cases related to extortion, kidnapping, and the arms and NDPS Act registered against the accused.
India 15-Jul-2023
The Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC) on July 15 changed the name of its YouTube channel, which will be used for live broadcasts of Gurbani from Golden Temple, to 'Sachkhand Sri Darbar Sahib, Sri Amritsar'. Earlier, the name of the YouTube channel was announced as “Sachkhand Sri Harmandir Sahib, Sri Amritsar”.
India 15-Jul-2023
A gangster belonging to the Davinder Bambiha gang, Surinderpal Singh alias Billa escaped from Guru Gobind Singh Medical College and Hospital in Faridkot district on July 15. Billa who was arrested on July 10 after an encounter was undergoing treatment at the Hospital. He is alleged to have been involved in running an extortion racket.
Indonesia 15-Jul-2023
Indian External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, during the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) meeting in Jakarta, Indonesia, met with Canadian Foreign Minister Melanie Joly and emphasized the importance of ensuring the safety and security of Indian diplomats in Canada, given the threats posed by pro-Khalistan elements. Following their second meeting, Minister Jaishankar tweeted, “Discussed the Indo-Pacific and our economic cooperation. Underlined the importance of ensuring the security of our diplomats. And the need to firmly combat incitement to violence.” Minister Melanie Joly also reiterated Canada's strong commitment to upholding its obligations under the Vienna Convention to ensure the safety of diplomats.
Australia 16-Jul-2023
According to reports, the rise of the Khalistan movement in Australia is causing alarm due to recent activities, such as the 'Kill India' rally organized by the Khalistan outfit Sikhs for Justice (SFJ), which led to clashes and vandalism in Australia. While some Australian politicians have expressed support for the movement, the Australian government's silence on threats against Indian diplomats raises concerns about diplomatic relations. Priority should be given to ensuring the safety of Australian citizens and diplomats, as well as maintaining a healthy relationship with India, by taking significant steps to address the escalating Khalistan activities, the report said.
Canada 16-Jul-2023
According to sources, a Khalistan Referendum event organized by the banned Khalistan group, Sikhs For Justice (SFJ) was held at Gurdwara Sri Guru Singh Sabha in Malton, Mississauga, Canada, on July 16.
India 16-Jul-2023
The Border Security Force (BSF) on July 16 arrested two persons and recovered 508 grams of opium from them along the international border in Ferozepur Sector in Ferozepur district.
India 16-Jul-2023
The Border Security Force (BSF) troops recovered 1.2 kg of opium near Gandhu Kilche village, in Ferozepur district of Punjab.
Canada 16-Jul-2023
According to Pakistan news reports, the banned Khalistan group Sikhs For Justice (SFJ) has reportedly called for the Indian High Commissioner in Canada, Sanjay Kumar Verma, to be declared 'Persona Non-Grata', for his alleged interference in Canada's internal affairs alleged interference in Canada's internal affairs. Earlier, in an official communique, High Commissioner Verma urged the Canadian government to take strict action against the illegal referendum conducted by the SFJ, which is seen as an attempt to undermine the relationship between Canada and India.
India 16-Jul-2023
According to the police, the killing of a 65-year-old man in Moga, Punjab on July 16, who was shot dead by four unidentified assailants, was part of a gang war between the Bishnoi and Bambiha gangs. On July 17, the police revealed that the killing was in retaliation for an attack on gangster Goru Baccha in jail. Baccha, a member of the Lawrence Bishnoi gang, has been accused and taken into custody. The victim, Santokh Singh, was the father of gangster Sukhdev Singh, who is a member of the Bambiha gang. The police are investigating the incident and attempting to identify the assailants involved in the murder. Goru Baccha is already facing trial for various crimes and is associated with other notorious gangsters.
India 17-Jul-2023
The Amritsar City Police's Criminal Investigation Agency (CIA) staff arrested an alleged member of the Jaggu Bhagwanpuria gang, identified as Deepak Rathi alias Dhillon alias Parvesh Haryanvi, in Kolhapur, Maharashtra on July 17. According to Additional Deputy Commissioner of Police (ADCP) Abhimanyu Rana, Deepak is alleged to be one of the shooters involved in the killing of gangster Jarnail Singh in Sathiala village in Amritsar district on May 24. Deepak has multiple cases of attempted murder and dacoity registered against him in Haryana, Delhi, and Punjab.
India 17-Jul-2023
Punjab Chief Minister (CM) Bhagwant Mann, on July 17, participated in a virtual meeting on 'Drug Trafficking and National Security' and urged Union Home Minister (UMH) Amit Shah to make drone registration mandatory in order to combat cross-border smuggling of weapons and drugs. He also suggested the installation of anti-drone technology or jammers along the International Border (IB) with Pakistan. Mann proposed the establishment of a regional drone forensic lab in Punjab to trace the origin and routes of drones. He emphasized his government's efforts in addressing drug trafficking through a three-pronged strategy of enforcement, de-addiction, and prevention (EDP).
India 17-Jul-2023
The National Investigation Agency (NIA) officials revealed on July 17 that a Pakistani arms supplier based in Dubai, UAE, identified as Hamid had provided the weapons used in the murder of Punjabi singer and politician Sidhu Moosewala. Hamid claimed to have close ties with gangster Goldy Brar alias Satinderjit Singh, a close associate of the Lawrence Bishnoi gang. Moosewala was shot dead by six assailants in the Mansa district of Punjab on May 29, 2022. NIA documents reveal that Shahbaz Ansari, an arms supplier for the Bishnoi gang, met Hamid in Dubai prior to Moosewala's murder to discuss arms smuggling and the supply of weapons to Lawrence Bishnoi. The investigation is also examining the connection between Khalistani terror group Babbar Khalsa International (BKI) and Moosewala's murder.
India 17-Jul-2023
Senior Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) leader and former Minister S. Mahesh Inder Singh Grewal on July 17 criticized Punjab Chief Minister (CM) Bhagwant Mann and urged him to refrain from dictating to the Khalsa Panth on how it should manage its religious affairs or disseminate the teachings of the great Guru Sahiban to the Sikh Sangat through the sacred Gurbani and its telecast mode.
India 17-Jul-2023
The Inspector General of Police (IGP) Headquarters Sukhchain Singh Gill, on July 17, revealed that Punjab Police's year-long battle against drugs has resulted in the arrest of 16,360 drug smugglers, including 2,351 major players. They have registered 12,218 FIRs, with 1,458 related to commercial quantity. During this period, the police seized 1220.94 kg of heroin, 797.14-kg opium, 902.13-kg ganja, 375.47 quintals of poppy husk, and 65.49 lakhs tablets/capsules/injections/vials of pharma opioids from across the state. The police also seized INR 12.33 crore in drug money and forfeited properties worth INR 26.72 crore from 66 major smugglers. Additionally, law and order have improved, with the police dismantling 18 terror modules and 208 gangster/criminal modules, arresting 143 terrorists/radicals after recovering 31 rifles, 209 revolvers/pistols, 5 tiffin improvised explosive devices (IEDs), 6.78 kg RDX and other explosives, 10 hand grenades, one sleeve of disposed rocket launcher, 51 drones, and one loaded rocket-propelled grenade.
India 17-Jul-2023
The Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB) has opened two offices in Amritsar, Punjab, which were virtually inaugurated by Union Home Minister (UHM) Amit Shah on July 17. The objective of this move is to strengthen the fight against drug peddlers in the border state.
India 17-Jul-2023
Khanna police on July 17 arrested two persons, Abhishek Saxena and Aman and recovered three illegal country-made pistols of .315 bore from their backpacks in Khanna, Ludhiana district. On July 20, a country-made .315 bore pistol was also recovered based on the information provided by them. According to Khanna Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Amneet Kondal, during questioning, the accused revealed that they were friends and had connected with an unidentified person through Instagram. This person provided them with illegal weapons and instructed them to supply the weapons to Ludhiana.
Pakistan 17-Jul-2023
Malik Mohd Ahmad Khan, who is the Special Assistant on Defence to Pakistan Prime Minister (PM) Shehbaz Sharif, admitted in an interview on July 17 that Pakistani smugglers are increasingly using drones to transport drugs across the border to India, corroborating previous allegations. In the interview with journalist Hamid Mir in Kasur city, which borders the Indian Punjab, Khan confirmed the use of drones for smuggling. The admission is significant as Khan holds close ties to Pakistan's political and military establishment. The issue of cross-border drug and arms smuggling through drones has been a persistent concern for India, with recent recoveries indicating a continued problem. Kasur is located near Punjab's Khemkaran and Ferozepur. As per recent data from Punjab Police, Ferozepur district alone witnessed 795 FIRs registered under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act from July 2022-2023. The majority of drug seizures occurred in the Punjab districts bordering Pakistan.
India 18-Jul-2023
In a joint operation, the Border Security Force (BSF) and Punjab Police on July 18 intercepted a Pakistani drone and recovered 2.35 kg of heroin near fields in Kalsian Khurd village in Tarn Taran district of Punjab.
India 18-Jul-2023
According to reports, the Ludhiana district in Punjab is grappling with a severe drug addiction crisis, with an alarming number of drug-related cases being reported. The region has witnessed tragic incidents, including deaths resulting from drug overdose. The National Crime Records Bureau (NCB) data from 2021 ranks Ludhiana as the most severely affected district in Punjab concerning drug addiction.
India 18-Jul-2023
Police arrested one person identified as Manjeet and recovered 16.26 gm of heroin from him near Government College for Girls, Sector 42, Mohali.
India 18-Jul-2023
Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, the chief of the banned outfit Sikhs For Justice (SFJ), threatened Indian leaders Union Home Minister Amit Shah, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar, and Indian High Commissioner of India to Canada Sanjay Kumar Verma in a video circulated on social media. He accused them of being responsible for the assassination of Khalistani terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar and offered a reward of 125,000 dollars to anyone providing information about the foreign visits of these leaders. In the video, Pannun can be heard saying, “The Sikh Qaum has not forgotten its history and how to use weapons. Sikhs For Justice is offering a reward of 125,000 dollars to anyone who informs about the foreign visits of these Indian leaders. These Indian leaders are our targets now.”
India 19-Jul-2023
Kirandeep Kaur, the wife of imprisoned Khalistani separatist and chief of Waris Punjab De (WPD), Amritpal Singh, was stopped from leaving the country for the third time on July 19 at Indira Gandhi International (IGI) airport in New Delhi. According to sources, her travel plans were allegedly linked to an upcoming ceremony honouring the slain Khalistani leader Avtar Singh Khanda, the 'chief' of Khalistan Liberation Force (KLF), who passed away in the United Kingdom (UK) on July 15 under mysterious circumstances. Authorities are concerned that Kirandeep may deliver inflammatory speeches in the UK, potentially fuelling hatred against India. However, she blamed the government and agencies for stopping her.
India 19-Jul-2023
Punjab Police’s State Special Operation Cell (SSOC) on July 19 arrested a member of the Goldy Brar-Lawrence Bishnoi gang, identified as Kashmir Singh alias Bobby Shooter, and recovered one country-made pistol along with two live cartridges from him in Khanna in Ludhiana district.
India 19-Jul-2023
Gangster Surinder Pal Singh alias Billa, a member of the Bambhia gang, surrendered to the police on July 19, four days after escaping from custody at Guru Gobind Singh Medical College and Hospital in Faridkot. He had fled while receiving treatment for a bullet injury sustained during an exchange of fire with the police.
India 20-Jul-2023
Pro-Khalistan bot activity on social media has escalated, targeting India's diplomats and missions in Canada, the United States (US), the United Kingdom (UK), and Australia, according to a report released by the Princeton, New Jersey-based Network Contagion Research Institute (NCRI). In response to inquiries, NCRI's Chief Operating Officer (COO), Jack Donohue, confirmed that about 20% of the accounts involved in the recent surge of Khalistan activity were identified as Pakistani based on user descriptions and reported locations. These bots have been amplifying violence and conspiracy theories, including false allegations of India's involvement in the assassination of a prominent figure. The NCRI report indicates that some of these accounts are linked to Pakistan, possibly indicating state-involved influence. The bots have also been promoting extremist rhetoric and calling for attacks on Hindu places of worship and Indian government buildings. The escalating online activity raises concerns and highlights the need for increased vigilance and defensive measures by law enforcement and social media platforms.
India 20-Jul-2023
The Kartarpur Corridor was closed from July 20 until July 22 due to rising water levels in the Ravi river caused by heavy rain and water releases from the Ujh river in Jammu and the Ranjit Sagar Dam.
India 20-Jul-2023
Ferozepur district has recorded the highest number of First Information Reports (FIR) under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act in the ongoing anti-drug smuggling drive by Punjab Police, with 795 cases registered between July 5, 2022, and July 7, 2023. The initiative was launched following an announcement by Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann to combat drug smuggling in the state. However, the maximum haul of heroin was made from the border districts of Amritsar (Rural), Fazilka, and Tarn Taran. Amritsar (Rural) recorded the highest recovery of heroin at 196.87 kg, while Ferozepur reported the most drug-related FIRs. The total seizures in the given period include heroin (1073.44 kg), opium (797.14 kg), poppy husk (375.47 quintals), and pills/capsules (65,49,389).
India 20-Jul-2023
Two gangsters of the Deepu Banur gang, identified as Ravi Kumar alias Ravi Banur and Som Dutt, were arrested by the operation cell of Chandigarh Police near Shiv Temple in Phase 2, Chandigarh on July 20. Their accomplice, Amandeep Singh alias Mani Rajput, is at large. Ravi Kumar is a cousin of Deepak Banur, a close aide of Lawrence Bishnoi. The gang targeted prominent businessmen in the tri-city area (Chandigarh, Mohali, Panchkula). The trio was allegedly operating on the directions of gangster Gurjant Singh alias Janta.
India 20-Jul-2023
Chief Judicial Magistrate Aman Inder Singh Sandhu on July 20 gave a two-month deadline to decide on the recommendation for the early release of Shamsher Singh, a convict in the assassination of former Punjab Chief Minister (CM) Beant Singh. The order came in response to Shamsher Singh's bail application, following a Punjab and Haryana High Court ruling in January to grant regular bail to convicts who completed their life sentence but awaited a decision on permanent release. The court noted that Shamsher Singh had served 27 years, six months, and 18 days in prison as of July 8, and his behaviour inside the jail was commendable. The Superintendent of Model Jail, Chandigarh, had recommended his premature release on July 13.
India 20-Jul-2023
Akal Takht Jathedar Giani Raghbir Singh and Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee president (SGPC) President Harjinder Singh Dhami on July 20 expressed concern over granting parole to the Sirsa dera chief Gurmeet Ram Rahim Singh. Both leaders also raised the issue of Sikh prisoners who have been incarcerated for decades without any release, claiming it instills a sense of slavery among Sikhs in India and creates a distrustful environment among the Sikh community.
India 21-Jul-2023
The Punjab Police and Border Security Force (BSF), in a joint search operation, on July 21, recovered a broken Quadcopter drone, DJI Matrice 300 RTK model from Mastgarh village in Tarn Taran district of Punjab.
India 21-Jul-2023
The banned Khalistani separatist organisation Sikhs For Justice (SFJ) on July 21 launched a global "Kill India" campaign targeting Indian diplomats and announced its plan to “besiege” Indian missions in Canada, United States (US), United Kingdom (UK), Portugal, Italy, Germany and Australia on India's Independence Day, August 15. SFJ, in their latest poster and video, labelled Indian Mission chiefs Sanjay Kumar Verma (High Commissioner of India to Canada), Taranjit Singh Sandhu (Indian Ambassador to the US), Vikram Doraiswami (High Commissioner of India to the UK), and Manpreet Vohra (High Commissioner of India to Australia) as 'Chief Architects' responsible for sponsoring and inciting violence against pro-Khalistan Sikhs. In Australia, the High Commissioner of India to Australia, Manpreet Vohra, the Consul General of India in Melbourne, Dr. Sushil Kumar, and the Consul General of India in Sydney, Manish Gupta, were labelled as "Indian Terrorists in Australia" in SFJ’s poster.
India 21-Jul-2023
Punjab Police Counter Intelligence (CI) on July 21 arrested Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) leader and Amritsar District President of Students Organisation of India (SOI) Tejbeer Singh and recovered 110 grams of heroin, a car and INR 3 lakh in drug money from him, in Amritsar. His links with notorious gangsters came to light after the arrest of Gurjit Singh, who confessed to receiving heroin from gangsters Manu and Doni to supply further to Tejbir. Tejbir's close association with gangster Doni wanted in multiple criminal cases, including murders, was discovered during investigations.
India 22-Jul-2023
The National Investigation Agency (NIA) on July 22 filed a chargesheet against three designated Khalistani terrorists, including Harwinder Singh Sandhu alias Rinda of Babbar Khalsa International (BKI), Arshdeep Dalla alias Arsh Dala of Khalistan Tiger Force (KTF), and Lakhbir Singh Sandhu alias Landa of BKI, along with six others, identified as Harjot Singh, Kashmir Singh Galwaddi, Tarsem Singh, Gurjant Singh, Deepak Ranga and Lucky Khokhar. These terrorists have established networks to carry out terror activities, including recruiting, motivating, and handling associates in India, as well as smuggling weapons and drugs across the border. The NIA reported that Rinda illegally fled to Pakistan in 2018-19 and has been supported by Pakistan's Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI). He was involved in several terrorist activities, including an RPG attack on the Punjab Police Intelligence Headquarters in May 2022. The investigation also reveals a complex mechanism of fundraising for BKI and KTF, with funds being routed through informal and formal channels to India-based associates. The accused have been involved in various terrorist activities, including attacks on police headquarters and targeted killings. The NIA is actively investigating the connections of 16 other accused linked to BKI and KTF, who are either absconding or under arrest. The chargesheet was presented in a special court as part of the agency's efforts to expose and counter the activities of these banned extremist groups.
Canada 22-Jul-2023
Canadian security services have heightened security at the residence of the High Commissioner of India to Canada, Sanjay Kumar Verma, in Ottawa on July 22, following online threats related to the pro-Khalistan 'Kill India' campaign which surfaced on July 21. The threats by the banned Khalistani separatist group Sikhs For Justice (SFJ), posted for August 15, India’s Independence Day, were seen as an "escalation" compared to previous campaigns for rallies at Indian missions in Ottawa, Toronto, and Vancouver on July 8. Earlier, Indian authorities have expressed concern to Canada's foreign ministry Global Affairs Canada and Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP), who have been responsive to the threat perception.
India 22-Jul-2023
Chandigarh Police, in a press conference on July 22, revealed that despite being in Patiala jail, gangster Deepu Banur, a close ally of Lawrence Bishnoi, was involved in running an extortion racket and arranging weapons for his gang. After Chandigarh Police busted an active extortion racket in the tricity and arrested two members of the Deepu Banur gang, their operation cell revealed that the gangster was running the racket from Patiala jail. The gang used the money generated from their racket for gambling, lending, and narcotics nexus, as revealed by Superintendent of Police (SP) Mridul.
India 22-Jul-2023
Police on July 22 arrested nine persons and recovered an illegal pistol, two live cartridges, three stolen motorcycles, 45 kg of copper, and 50 litres of hooch from the suspects in Muktsar in Sri Muktsar Sahib district. Additionally, a proclaimed offender in a case related to the Excise Act was also arrested by the police.
United Kingdom 23-Jul-2023
India has approved a 'limited diplomatic immunity waiver' for its diplomats in the United Kingdom (UK) concerning the investigation into the pro-Khalistan attack on the Indian mission on March 19. The waiver will apply during the trial stage. Earlier, the London Police requested the immunity waiver for witnesses and complainants at the Indian mission. Indian missions in the United States (US), Canada, and Australia have also faced attacks by pro-Khalistan supporters. The National Investigation Agency (NIA) is probing the London attack and has released images of suspects involved in vandalizing the high commission. The Indian government is working with key countries to counter Sikh radicals' network in various Western capitals.
India 23-Jul-2023
According to sources, a recent intelligence report that was sent to the Union Ministry of Home Affairs (UMHA) warns that Pakistan's Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) is planning to send weaponry, including small firearms, grenades, and sticky bombs, into India's Jammu and Punjab regions using drones. The ISI has established drone centres in Lahore and Sialkot in Pakistan, operated by Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM) and Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) terrorists, to carry out these activities. The drones are loaded with weapons and narcotics for delivery to launchpads in Sialkot and Narowal, with the aim of distributing weapons and intensifying the narcotics problems in Punjab and Jammu and Kashmir. Indian security forces are on high alert to counter these threats. Drone-based weapon deliveries have seen a significant rise since 2020, prompting increased vigilance by Indian intelligence agencies.
India 23-Jul-2023
Punjab Police on July 23 arrested two smugglers, identified as Subeg Singh and Sandip Singh alias Seepa and recovered 18 packets of heroin weighing 20 kilograms, worth Rs 100 crores from them at Haste ke Road near Rano village in Fazilka district. According to Director General of Police (DGP) Punjab Gaurav Yadav, acting on a tip-off about the use of drones to drop the consignment from Pakistan, the state Special Operation Cell (SCO) carried out the operation and caught the accused who were caught trying to flee on a motorbike.
United States 23-Jul-2023
United States (US) Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi, in an interview on July 23, firmly condemned the recent attack on the Indian consulate in San Francisco and asserted that Khalistanis represent a minute faction among Sikh Americans. He emphasized that the vast majority of Sikh Americans and Indian Americans would never endorse or support violence and aggression promoted by this fringe group. The Congressman stressed the significance of peaceful dialogue and understanding among communities to address grievances and ensure harmonious coexistence, denying that Khalistanis pose a significant threat in the US.
India 24-Jul-2023
Punjab Police and Border Security Force (BSF) on July 24 recovered a heroin packet weighing around 3.7 kg from a field in Rajoke village in Tarn Taran district. The authorities suspect that the drugs were airdropped by a drone from across the Pakistan border.
India 24-Jul-2023
The Punjab Police on July 24 conducted a cordon and search operation (CASO) in the Bathinda range targeting drug peddlers and anti-social elements and arrested 41 individuals, and seized 197.13 gm heroin, 14 kg poppy husk, 225 litres of illicit liquor, INR 3.5 lakh in drug money and eight mobile phones from the suspects. The operation took place in the police districts of Bathinda and Mansa from 8 am to 1 pm, under the supervision of the Additional Director General of Police (ADGP) (Bathinda Range) SPS Parmar.
India 24-Jul-2023
Police on July 24, after a brief encounter, arrested two gangsters of the Sukha Duneke gang, identified as Ajay Gumber and Sandeep alias Sunny Bhinder, and recovered an illegal .315 bore pistol, a .32 bore pistol, one magazine, six live and three empty cartridges, along with an unregistered motorcycle from the accused in Sri Muktsar Sahib district.
United Kingdom 24-Jul-2023
An investigation by the British tabloid The Daily Mail on July 24 revealed that some United Kingdom (UK) lawyers are allegedly ‘coaching’ illegal Indian migrants to fake asylum claims by pretending to be persecuted Khalistanis. The undercover investigation exposed 40 law firms involved in this activity. Several lawyers suggested false narratives of farmers' protests held in India in 2021, Khalistan separatist protests led by Amritpal Singh, and threats from Indian security forces. Meanwhile, in response to the investigation, UK Prime Minister (PM) Rishi Sunak vowed on July 25 to tackle illegal immigration and secure deals with France and Albania for better border control.
India 25-Jul-2023
Gangster Deepak alias Deepu Banur was brought from Patiala jail to Chandigarh on July 25 for a two-day custody on a production warrant and is being interrogated in connection with an extortion case.