KHALISTAN EXTREMISM MONITOR
A project of the Institute for Conflict Management
A project of the Institute for Conflict Management
India 09-Aug-2023
The Enforcement Directorate (ED) on August 9 arrested five persons, identified as Anil Bhalla, Akash Bhalla, Sahil Bhalla, Nirmal Singh and Narinder Khillan, in connection with a money laundering case linked to alleged drug trafficking, possession of illegal arms and ammunition, as well as extortion, after carrying out raids in various cities of Punjab. The ED seized Indian and foreign currency and fixed deposits worth about INR 6.25 crore besides arms and ammunition from various locations in Chandigarh, Panchkula, Zirakpur and Sahibzada Ajit Singh Nagar (SAS) Nagar and Mohali, in Punjab, on August 8. On August 10, they were produced before a special Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA) court, which sent the five to ED custody till August 17.
India 09-Aug-2023
The National Intelligence Agency (NIA) on August 9 filed two separate supplementary charge sheets against several key members of the Lawrence Bishnoi and Bambiha gangs while court declared seven individuals including Arshdeep Dala of Khalistan Tiger Force (KTF) as proclaimed offenders (POs) in a case related to the multi-state terrorist-gangster-drug smuggler network. Notorious individuals like Lakhbir Singh alias Landa, a Khalistani terrorist associated with Babbar Khalsa International (BKI), and members of the Bambiha gang, have been implicated. The charge sheets are part of an ongoing investigation into a multi-state terrorist-gangster-drug smuggling network.
India 09-Aug-2023
The banned Khalistani terror outfit Sikhs For Justice (SFJ) on August 9 offered a USD 10,000 reward for details about the Consul General of India in Toronto, Apoorva Srivastava; the High Commissioner of India to Canada, Sanjay Kumar Verma; and the Consul General of India in Vancouver, Manish. A poster released by SFJ, titled 'Assassination of Shaheed Jathedar Hardeep Singh Nijjar,' stated that SFJ would initiate criminal prosecution for Nijjar's killers in Canada. The poster also had images of Indian diplomats.
India 09-Aug-2023
Despite efforts by the Chandigarh and Punjab police to dissuade them, the Qaumi Insaaf Morcha on August 9 announced their intent to proceed with a protest march towards Chandigarh on August 15. The Chandigarh police on August 9 held a meeting with the protest organizers and activists of Qaumi Insaaf Morcha. The Morcha, which has been protesting since January 7 at YPS Chowk in Mohali, is demanding the release of Sikh prisoners.
India 09-Aug-2023
The Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) on August 9 criticized the significant cuts made by the Indian Censor Board on a biopic about Punjab-based human rights activist Jaswant Singh Khalra, terming it 'legal murder.' The SAD accused the Censor Board of bias and demanded the removal of the imposed cuts to ensure the film's integrity and truthfulness.
India 09-Aug-2023
The Border Security Force (BSF) Assistant Commandant Gaurav Sharma, on August 9, in Amritsar, declared that the Indian BSF is vigilant and well-prepared to counter drone threats from Pakistan, with soldiers trained to detect suspicious drone activity and conduct investigations. The use of drones for smuggling narcotics and weapons by Pakistan poses a significant challenge, requiring constant monitoring and response. The increasing affordability and accessibility of drone technology heighten the threat, as Pakistan intensifies its proxy war through such means.
India 09-Aug-2023
The Commissioner of Police (CP), Ludhiana, Mandeep Singh Sidhu on August 9 stated that comprehensive effort by the Commissionerate Police has led to the arrest of 453 smugglers involved in smuggling and drug trade, with substantial seizures of 629 kg contraband and intoxicant pills and capsules which includes 398 kg of poppy husk, 167-kg ganja, 46-kg opium, 12.5-kg heroin, 4-kg each hashish and intoxicant powder, 1-kg charas, 25-gram cocaine,157-gm ICE and seven-gm lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD) and methylenedioxy methamphetamine (MDMA) and over 46,000 pills and capsules since November 2022. Additionally, taking strong action against property crime, the police successfully investigated 618 cases involving stolen property valued at Rs 18 crore. The recovered items comprised 580 stolen vehicles, 1,219 snatched or stolen mobile phones, 4 kg of stolen gold ornaments, 4 kg of stolen silver jewellery, and looted cash totalling Rs 8.12 crore. Properties worth Rs 1.63 crore belonging to habitual offenders have been attached, demonstrating a zero tolerance approach to crime.
India 09-Aug-2023
The Punjab Police’s Anti-Gangster Task Force (ATF) on August 9 arrested four suspected members of the Bambiha gang, identified as Sukhjinder Singh alias Sukhi Khan, Yadwinder Singh, Husanpreet Singh and Jagsir Singh and recovered three pistols of .30 bore, 20 live cartridges and one Swift car from their possession near Handiya in Barnala district. Sukhi Khan sustained injuries during a 10-minute gunfight that occurred when the police intercepted their car.
India 09-Aug-2023
On August 9, the trial commenced for 25 accused individuals, including Lawrence Bishnoi and Jaggu Bhagwanpuria, in the murder case of Punjabi singer Sidhu Moose Wala, at the Mansa District and Sessions Court through video-conferencing. The court proceedings included initial arguments on charges, and the next hearing is scheduled for August 23.
United States 09-Aug-2023
United States (US) authorities have arrested an international arms dealer, identified as Dharmanjot Singh Kahlon, who allegedly played a crucial role in supplying weapons used in the murder of Punjabi singer Sidhu Moose Wala, in California, US. Sidhu Moose Wala was shot and killed in Punjab's Mansa on May 29, 2022, shortly after his security protection was reduced by the state government. He also had connections with gangsters Goldy Brar and Lawrence Bishnoi.
India 09-Aug-2023
Police on August 9 arrested three associates of the Billa gang, identified as Mehar Singh, Gurdeep Singh, and Vishal, and recovered two .32 bore pistols, three illegal weapons, and 23 cartridges from their possession near Lubanianwali village in Muktsar district. Mehar Singh sustained injuries when he jumped into a drain in an attempt to flee after their car was intercepted at a checkpoint.
India 09-Aug-2023
According to reports, despite disposing of 87,083 cases until July of this year (2023), the total case pendency of the Punjab and Haryana High Court remains relatively unchanged, standing at 4,42,805, down from 4,47,886. Factors influencing disposal include the nature and complexity of the cases. Over 1,66,427 criminal cases involving life and liberty are still pending. Even with the resumption of physical hearings, the backlog persists due to retiring and transferring judges, which affects the frequency of hearings for important cases.
India 09-Aug-2023
The chief of banned Khalistani terror outfit, Sikhs For Justice (SFJ), Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, in a video released on August 9, claimed to have issued an open letter to United States (US) Congressmen Rohit Khanna and Michael Waltz, who are in New Delhi to attend India’s Independence day celebrations on August 15, urging them to question Prime Minister (PM) Narendra Modi about the criminalisation of the Khalistan referendum and alleged political persecution of pro-Khalistan Sikhs by India. He also urged Sikhs to raise the Khalistani flags on August 15.
India 09-Aug-2023
Union Minister of State for Home, Nityanand Rai, on August 9 in a written reply to a question in the Rajya Sabha (Upper House of Parliament) stated that, the Border Security Force (BSF) has seized the highest amount of heroin from Punjab and Rajasthan and the maximum 'ganja' (Marijuana) from Tripura and West Bengal in the past three years. In Punjab, 506.241 kg heroin was seized in 2020, 485.581 kg in 2021, 320.884 in 2022 and 248.103 kg till June 30 this year, according to Union Ministry of Home Affairs (UMHA) data.
India 10-Aug-2023
On August 10, Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) leader Talbir Gill posted a video on Facebook criticizing Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC) president Harjinder Singh Dhami for his apparent silence regarding the appointment of a non-Sikh director-principal at Sri Guru Ram Das Institute of Medical Sciences and Research.
United Kingdom 10-Aug-2023
United Kingdom (UK) based chief of Khalistani militant outfit Khalistan Liberation Force (KLF), Avtar Singh Khanda's funeral will be held at the Guru Nanak Gurdwara in Smethwick in West Midlands in the UK on August 12. Khanda passed away on June 15, 2023 in Birmingham, UK.
India 10-Aug-2023
According to sources, Indian authorities are working with the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) in the United States (US) to extradite international arms dealer Dharmanjot Singh Kahlon who was recently detained in California, US. Kahlon is accused of smuggling weapons for various gangs, including AK-47 rifles, and for supplying weapons allegedly used in Sidhu Moose Wala murder. Kahlon is also a close associate of gangsters Goldy Brar and Lawrence Bishnoi.
India 10-Aug-2023
On August 10, Jagtar Singh Hawara, a convict in former Punjab Chief Minister (CM) Beant Singh’s assassination case, appeared via video conferencing in Mohali district court for terrorism and sedition related cases. The court had received a letter from Delhi Police, stating that due to Independence Day security measures, they couldn't bring him to court in person. The court scheduled his in-person appearance on August 28 to present charge sheets.
India 10-Aug-2023
The Border Security Force (BSF) in a joint search operation with Punjab Police on August 10, recovered a packet of heroin weighing 360 grams in Pallopati village in Tarn Taran district.
India 10-Aug-2023
The Punjab Police on August 10 busted a cross-border drug smuggling racket by arresting three smugglers, identified as Bhindar Singh alias Bhinda, Dilbag Singh alias Manu, and Manipal Singh alias Mani, and seized 12 kg heroin and a car from their possession, near Beharwal village in Amritsar district. The arrested individuals, connected to Pakistan-based smugglers, had criminal records and were part of a wider investigation to uncover the recipients of the consignment, according to Director General of Police (DGP) Gaurav Yadav.
India 10-Aug-2023
Senior Congress leader and accused in the 1984 Pul Bangash killings case, Jagdish Tytler, on August 10 requested permission to appear before a Delhi court through video conferencing due to security concerns. Tytler's lawyer sought this remote appearance after a Sikh community protest during his previous court appearance on August 5.
India 10-Aug-2023
The Minister of State for Security, United Kingdom (UK), Thomas Georg John Tugendhat, on August 10 announced an investment of £95,000 (approximately INR 1 crore) to counter the threat posed by pro-Khalistan extremism, during a meeting with India's External Affairs Minister (EAM), S Jaishankar, in New Delhi. He also met with National Security Advisor (NSA) Ajit Doval. The UK and India are already collaborating through the Joint Extremism Task Force (JETF) to combat extremism, emphasizing actions against those promoting violent extremism and its financing.
India 10-Aug-2023
The Jagraon city police on August 10 arrested an Assistant Sub-Inspector (ASI) Pahara Singh and his two accomplices for allegedly extorting a couple who were facing charges in multiple drug peddling cases in Ludhiana district. The case was filed based on a complaint and audio recordings submitted by Inderjit Kaur alias Indu.
Canada 11-Aug-2023
Despite allegations by Khalistani separatists, an associate of Hardeep Singh Nijjar, the chief of Khalistan Tiger Force (KTF), revealed that Canadian law enforcement agencies did not mention India while briefing him about the potential threat to his life. Nijjar was killed on June 18, 2023. The individual, who maintained a close relationship with Nijjar, stated that India was not identified as the source of the threat during the agencies’ interactions with Nijjar. According to sources, Nijjar received briefings from both the Canadian Security Intelligence Service (CSIS) and the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) on multiple occasions this year, through telephone conversations and follow-up email exchanges.
India 11-Aug-2023
The National Investigation Agency (NIA) on August 11 arrested two close associates of Khalistani terrorist Arshdeep Singh Dala alias Arsh Dala, identified as Manpreet Singh alias Peeta and Mandeep Singh, from Indira Gandhi International Airport in New Delhi, following their arrival from Manila, Philippines. They were wanted for terror activities, including funding and threats for the banned group Khalistan Tiger Force (KTF). The duo had been involved in arms smuggling, extortion, and recruitment for the KTF, operating from Canada.
India 11-Aug-2023
The Additional Sessions Court in Chandigarh on August 11 framed charges against Jagtar Singh Hawara in two cases registered against him. The charges include waging war against the government, conspiracy, arms collection, and doing acts for the revival of terrorism and the formation of Khalistan. Hawara is currently serving a life term for assassinating former Punjab Chief Minister (CM) Beant Singh in Tihar Jail in New Delhi.
India 11-Aug-2023
A group of activists, led by Gursimran Singh Mand on August 11, attempted to hoist the Tricolour (Indian National Flag) at a house linked to the chief of the banned Khalistani terror outfit Sikhs For Justice (SFJ), Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, in Sector 15 of Chandigarh. The group also raised slogans against Khalistan and Pannun; however, Chandigarh Police intervened, citing concerns about law and order.
India 11-Aug-2023
Representatives of Qaumi Insaaf Morcha on August 11 stated that around 50 Sikh leaders plan to lead a peaceful protest march towards Chandigarh on August 15. Despite seeking permission for the march route, they have not received a response from the Chandigarh administration. The protesters have been demonstrating since January 7 at YPS Chowk, Mohali, demanding the release of Sikh prisoners who have completed their jail sentences. The high court warned the police to remove the protesters by force if necessary, deferring the hearing for August 17.
India 11-Aug-2023
A Delhi court on August 11 provided a 10-day period to senior Congress leader and former Union Minister Jagdish Tytler to review the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) charge sheet and accompanying documents concerning the Pul Bangash killings case connected to the 1984 anti-Sikh riots. The court will reconvene on August 21. The charge sheet accuses Tytler of inciting a mob that burned a gurdwara and resulted in the deaths of three Sikhs.
India 11-Aug-2023
A Pakistani infiltrator was shot dead by the Border Security Forces (BSF) on August 11 near the international border near Thekalan village in Tarn Taran District. Despite being challenged by the troops, the intruder ignored commands to halt and continued advancing. Consequently, the BSF personnel fired shots, resulting in the immediate death of the individual.
India 11-Aug-2023
Punjab Police on August 11 arrested a suspected smuggler, identified as Harpal Singh alias Bhala and recovered five kilograms of heroin from his possession at a checkpoint near Wan Tara Singh village in Tarn Taran district. According to Director General of Police (DGP) Gaurav Yadav, Singh was actively participating in trans-border drug smuggling, with the narcotics being transported via drones, and investigations are ongoing to uncover Pakistan-based smugglers and intended recipients of the drugs.
India 11-Aug-2023
Punjab Police's Anti-Gangster Task Force (AGTF), in a joint operation with Moga police on August 11, arrested gangster Gurpreet Singh alias Gopi Dallewalia and recovered a pistol and five cartridges from his possession in Moga in Moga district. Gopi Dallewalia, along with Gaurav Sharma alias Goru Bacha are the alleged mastermind behind the murder of a rival gang member's father, Santokh Singh, who was shot dead by four assailants in his house on July 16, 2023. The killing was part of an ongoing gang war between the Bishnoi and Bambiha gangs in Moga, with Gopi Dallewalia being linked to the Bishnoi gang.
India 11-Aug-2023
The Punjab and Haryana High Court (HC) on August 11 acknowledged the growing issue of drug trafficking and consumption in Punjab, emphasizing the need to address the drug menace and peddlers firmly.
India 11-Aug-2023
The Kapurthala police on August 11 registered a case against singer Manpreet Singh alias Singga, producer BK Singh, director Amandeep Singh, Virun Verma, Sonu Gill and song editor Jatin Arora, for promoting obscenity and gun culture in his 2022 song ‘Still Alive’ at the Kapurthala city police station under Sections 294 (obscenity) and 120-B (criminal conspiracy) of the Indian Penal Code (IPC). The case has been filed based on a complaint by Bhim Rao Force president Amandeep Sahota who has alleged that through his songs, the singer incited the youth of Punjab to take the wrong path by promoting weapons.
Canada 12-Aug-2023
On August 12, Lakshmi Narayan Mandir (temple) in Surrey, Canada, was vandalized by Khalistani separatists who placed anti-India and pro-Khalistan posters. The posters on the front door featured the word "Wanted" beneath photographs of India's top diplomats in Canada; the High Commissioner to Ottawa, Mr. Sanjay Kumar Verma, and the Consuls General in Vancouver and Toronto, Mr. Manish and Mr. Siddhartha Nath, respectively. On the rear doors, another poster urged Canada to investigate India's alleged involvement in the June 18 ‘assassination’ of Khalistani terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar. The temple's president, Satish Kumar, reported the incident and provided CCTV footage capturing two masked individuals to the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP).
India 12-Aug-2023
According to reports, the absence of a Full Body Truck Scanner (FBTS) at the Attari international border located at Amritsar district in Punjab, poses a risk of contraband influx from Afghanistan via commercial trucks passing through Pakistan. Legal disputes have hindered the FBTS installation, resulting in conventional inspection methods. The need for FBTS arose from a 2009 incident where heroin was found in pomegranate boxes. Despite attempts to install FBTS, heroin seizures in 2019 and 2022 underscore the urgency of implementation. Importantly, goods like dry fruits and herbs from Afghanistan through Pakistan provide opportunities for smuggling illicit items.
India 12-Aug-2023
An alleged drug smuggler, identified as Jora Singh Waseer was killed in a police encounter near Kairon village in Tarn Taran district of Punjab on August 12. His accomplice, Kuldeep Singh, was arrested. The police, acting on a tip-off about heroin smuggling from Pakistan, intercepted a vehicle at a checkpoint between Patti and Kairon villages in Tarn Taran district, leading to a shootout in which Jora Singh died.
India 12-Aug-2023
Police on August 12 arrested one person, identified as Rajan Kumar and recovered 2 kg heroin from his possession in Ferozepur Cantonment in Ferozepur district.
India 12-Aug-2023
The Crime Investigation Agency (CIA) branch of Punjab Police on August 12 arrested two persons, identified as Swaranjit Singh alias Sabbu and Shubham and seized 1.5 kg heroin, a motorcycle and a mobile phone from their possession in Ferozepur city in Ferozepur district.
India 12-Aug-2023
The Police on August 12 arrested two persons, identified as Chhinder Kaur and Simarjit and seized 13.4 kg poppy husk from their possession near Fazilka in Fazilka district.
India 12-Aug-2023
Police on August 12 arrested two persons, Deepika and Lakhwinder and seized 35 gm heroin from their possession in Malout in Muktsar district.
India 12-Aug-2023
Police on August 12 arrested a man, identified as Khema Sahu and recovered 71 kg poppy husk from his possession in Abohar in Fazilka district.
India 12-Aug-2023
The Police on August 12 arrested two persons, identified as Kali and Maluk Ram and recovered 10 kg poppy husk from their possession in Abohar in Fazilka district.
India 12-Aug-2023
A mutilated body of an unidentified Pakistan national aged 40-45 was discovered by the Border Security Force (BSF) on August 12 near Guddar Bhaini village in Fazilka district of Punjab. The body is assumed to have entered the Indian territory through the Sutlej River.
India 12-Aug-2023
Ludhiana Police Range Inspector General of Police (IGP) Kaustubh Sharma on August 12 stated that, over the past seven months, the Khanna police, under the leadership of Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Amneet Kondal, have successfully dismantled four major criminal modules and arrested key members of notorious gangs involved in heinous crimes. The individuals arrested include kingpins and active members of gangs led by notorious criminals like Amrit Bal, Jaggu Bhagwanpuria, Lovejeet Kang, and Gagandeep Singh. These operations have resulted in the recovery of a significant cache of arms and ammunition, thwarting potential criminal activities. Additionally, the police have disrupted several interstate weapons supply modules through arrests and seizures.
United Kingdom 12-Aug-2023
The funeral of Avtar Singh Khanda, the United Kingdom (UK) based chief of the Khalistani militant outfit Khalistan Liberation Force (KLF), took place in Smethwick, West Midlands, UK on August 12. The event was attended by approximately 1,000 people who were dressed in orange attire, carried Khalistan flags, and chanted pro-Khalistani slogans. The funeral procession featured a white carriage bearing Khanda's coffin. On top of the carriage, white wreaths were arranged to spell out "Khalistan" on one side and "Zindabaad" on the other, with two yellow "Khalistan flags" attached. His immediate family, including his mother Charanjit Kaur and sister Jaspreet Kaur from Punjab, were denied UK visas and thus watched the funeral via livestream.
India 12-Aug-2023
On August 12, the president of Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD), Sukhbir Singh Badal, made a social media post on X (formerly Twitter), in which he praised Prime Minister (PM) Narendra Modi's remarks concerning the 1984 Operation Blue Star, which PM Modi referred to as a "shocking assault" on the Golden Temple in Amritsar. Badal further expressed that this statement should be accompanied by an unconditional apology from the Government of India.
Philippines 13-Aug-2023
On August 13, two alleged Indian terrorists, identified as Manpreet Singh Gill and Mandeep Singh, were deported from the Philippines to India, according to Bureau of Immigration (BI) Commissioner Norman Tansingco. They were arrested in Iloilo City in the Philippines on March 7 and were believed to be involved in terrorist activities in Punjab, India.
India 13-Aug-2023
The Special Cell of Delhi Police has discovered that the Canada-based terrorist Arshdeep Singh alias Arsh Dalla, and his associates utilised the ‘Botim app’ for communication with their Indian counterparts, including gangsters like Neeraj Bawana and Lawrence Bishnoi. Dalla had hacked a Punjab-based girl's Facebook account to establish contact with Indian gangsters and coordinate operations. Despite being based in Canada, Dalla used IP addresses from the Philippines and Pakistan. One of his associates, Jagjit Singh alias Jagga, was tasked with carrying out significant operations, while gang members like Sunny Dagar and Jagjit alias Jassa, were involved in fundraising and targeted killings for the militant outfit Khalistan Tiger Force (KTF).
India 13-Aug-2023
Police on August 13 arrested three associates of Gurdev Singh alias Jaisel, identified as Ashmpreet Singh, Pardeep Singh and Sukhmanpreet and recovered three pistols and INR 37,500 from their possession near Majha area in Tarn Taran district. The arrested individuals confessed to transporting weapons and money for terror funding under Jaisel's orders. Jaisel was identified as a key operative of Canada-based Lakhbir Singh alias Landa and Satbir Singh Satta, known for their involvement in the RPG grenade attack on Sarhali police station, which took place on December 9 in 2022, and other plots for targeted killings, according to Punjab Director General of Police (DGP) Gaurav Yadav
India 13-Aug-2023
The Qaumi Insaaf Morcha on August 13 took out a symbolic march from YPS Chowk in Mohali, Punjab, towards the Punjab Chief Minister (CM) Bhagwant Mann’s house in Chandigarh, demanding the release of Sikh prisoners who have completed their terror-related jail terms. The march was halted at the Sector 52-53 intersection, where a religious gathering took place.
India 13-Aug-2023
On August 13, the Border Security Force (BSF) and the Punjab Police, during a joint operation, recovered three packets of heroin weighing around 3 kilograms near Machiwara village in Ferozepur district.
India 13-Aug-2023
The Border Security Force (BSF), on August 13, during a search operation, recovered a packet of heroin weighing 530 grams on the outskirts of Dhanoe Kalan village in Amritsar district.
India 13-Aug-2023
The Border Security Force (BSF) and the Punjab Police, on August 13, during a joint operation, recovered a broken quadcopter near Lakhna village in Tarn Taran district.
India 14-Aug-2023
Security has been heightened since August 14 due to plans by a pro-Khalistan group, the Quami Insaaf Morcha (QIM), to march from Mohali, Punjab, towards Chandigarh on August 15, Independence Day. The purpose of the march is to demand the release of Sikh prisoners. The police have bolstered security measures, focusing particularly on the Chandigarh-Mohali border where previous clashes between protesters and law enforcement have occurred. The group is advocating for the release of Sikh prisoners, among them Balwant Singh Rajoana, a convict in the assassination of former Punjab Chief Minister (CM) Beant Singh, and Devinderpal Singh Bhullar, a convict in the 1993 Delhi bomb blast case. The group has been engaged in protests for several months.
India 14-Aug-2023
United States (US) Congressman Rohit Khanna on August 14, in New Delhi, unequivocally opposed the Khalistani movement, asserting that Punjab's status as part of India is settled and there is no room for separatist endeavours. He strongly condemned the Khalistani attack on the Indian Consulate in San Francisco in July 2023, deeming it unconscionable. Khanna also emphasised the importance of equal treatment for all religious groups while underscoring Punjab's undeniable integration within India.
India 14-Aug-2023
The Counter Intelligence (CI) wing of Amritsar, in coordination with Central agencies on August 14, arrested five operatives of a terror module, identified as Gurinder Singh, Gurpinder Singh alias Lahoria, Lovepreet Singh, Narinder Singh and Sukhmanpreet Singh alias Jeevan and recovered two foreign-made 9mm pistols along with ammunition from their possession in Amritsar district. The terror module is run by gangster Harpreet alias Happy, a United States (US) based gangster. One more operative was identified by the police as Kamaljot Singh alias Kamal, who is absconding. According to Punjab Director General of Police (DGP) Gaurav Yadav, the module aimed to target political and socio-religious leaders in Punjab and is alleged to have received weapons through a drone-delivered consignment arranged by Happy in coordination with Pakistan-based terrorist Harwinder alias Rinda.
India 14-Aug-2023
On August 14, at the 28th India-Pakistan Friendship Festival held in Amritsar, Punjab, a gathering of intellectuals, journalists, artists, and activists engaged in discussions about the present state of India-Pakistan relations. Farmer leader Rakesh Tikait advocated for the reopening of the Attari-Wagah border to facilitate trade, underscoring its potential to alleviate the challenges faced by the farming community during the crisis. Participants emphasized a profound yearning for peace and increased people-to-people interaction, all while addressing the importance of governmental acknowledgment and endorsement of such sentiments.
India 14-Aug-2023
Police in Punjab and Haryana on August 14 intensified security checks at inter-state borders and key venues. Tight security measures have been put in place at the locations where the governors, chief ministers, and ministers from both states will raise the national flag on August 15, Independence Day.
India 14-Aug-2023
Border Security Force (BSF) Director General Nitin Agrawal on August 14 commenced his two-day visit to the Punjab frontier to assess the security situation along the India-Pakistan International Border. He received operational briefings from Punjab Frontier Inspector General Atul Fulzele and is set to participate in Independence Day events as part of the Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav.
India 14-Aug-2023
The Border Security Force (BSF) on August 14 shot dead a Pakistani intruder in Pathankot sector in Pathankot district.
India 14-Aug-2023
The Border Security Force (BSF) on August 14 recovered a packet containing 1.1 kilograms of heroin from an abandoned tractor in Tarn Taran sector in Tarn Taran district.
India 14-Aug-2023
In an interview, Punjab's Additional Director General (AIG) of Police, S P S Parmar, addressed concerns regarding police conduct during cordon and search operations (CASO), which have faced criticism from Human Rights activists for infringing on privacy. Parmar defended police operations and proposed a collaborative approach to combat drug smuggling. He highlighted that both the government and the police should not bear sole responsibility for the issue. Parmar also expressed appreciation for the Nasha Roko committees but emphasized the need to focus on addressing the underlying demand for drugs.
India 14-Aug-2023
A Punjab Police official stated on August 14 that Punjab Police has confiscated 99 kg of heroin and arrested 316 drug suppliers through 231 FIRs, including 30 for carrying commercial quantities, during the previous week. Additionally, they seized 9 kg of opium, 11 kg of Ganja (Marijuana), and 3 quintals of poppy husk, along with other drugs and drug money. Over the past 13 months, the police have arrested a total of 18,079 drug smugglers, including significant players, and registered 13,458 FIRs, 1,630 of which relate to commercial drug quantities. According to Punjab Police Inspector General (IG) Sukhchain Singh Gill, over the past 13 months, police teams have recovered a total of 1,407 kg of heroin.
India 14-Aug-2023
Punjab Chief Minister (CM) Bhagwant Mann, on August 14 recalled the significant sacrifices Punjabis on both sides of the border made for freedom. He mentioned that around 10 lakh people were killed during that time. He emphasized the commonalities shared by people on both sides, including language and culture, and highlighted the enduring nature of Punjabi unity, as demonstrated by their interactions and meetings at places like Kartarpur Sahib. Mann also recalled historical events, such as the objection by Sher Nawab Khan of Malerkotla to the bricking alive of Chote Sahibzadas during Sikh history.
India 14-Aug-2023
Pro-Khalistani elements, along with Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) (Amritsar) and Dal Khalsa activists, staged a demonstration in Ludhiana on the eve of India's Independence Day, August 14. The protesters brandished black flags and criticized India for alleged atrocities, injustices, and denial of rights to Punjab and Sikhs over the past decades. They called for Punjab to observe August 15 as a "Black Day" and condemned India's policies toward various groups, including Sikhs, Kashmiris, and Nagas, while chanting the slogan ‘Sikhs want Azaadi from India’.
Canada 14-Aug-2023
Canadian rapper AP Dhillon on August 14 faced backlash for sharing a photo wearing a multicolour shoe that some claimed resembled the Indian flag, on Twitter. He later deleted the photo.
United Kingdom 14-Aug-2023
The chief of the banned Khalistani terror outfit Sikhs For Justice (SFJ), Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, claimed in a video released on August 14 to have raised £250,000 (INR 2.6 crore) for a Khalistan Referendum vote in Scotland in 2024. This claim comes in response to the Indian government's crackdown on Sikh Khalistani activists in the United Kingdom (UK). This development follows UK Security Minister Tom Tugendhat's visit to India, during which he announced a recent allocation of £95,000 (INR 1 crore) to enhance the UK's capacity to combat pro-Khalistan extremism.
United Kingdom 15-Aug-2023
Two Indian men were injured in a violent clash that erupted between a group of Indian men commemorating India’s Independence Day and a small assembly of around five British Sikhs advocating for Khalistan in West London, United Kingdom (UK) on August 15.
India 15-Aug-2023
The 77th Independence Day celebrations took place on August 15 at the Attari-Wagah Joint Check Post on the Indo-Pak border near Amritsar in Amritsar district of Punjab.
India 15-Aug-2023
A minor skirmish occurred between the demonstrators and the police on August 15 at the Qaumi Insaaf Morcha (QIM) organised protest rally at the Chandigarh-Mohali border in Punjab. The rally featured masked carrying black, yellow and saffron flags along with carrying swords, spears and traditional weapons, cars, SUVs, tractors, and participants from various religious and farmer groups.
India 15-Aug-2023
The Qaumi Insaaf Morcha (QIM) on August 15 agreed to conduct the procession in Mohali after they were denied permission by Chandigarh Police to hold a protest march in Chandigarh. The decision came shortly before their scheduled protest, and the new route includes various locations in Mohali while avoiding Chandigarh. The group staged a protest in Mohali seeking the release of Sikh prisoners, including Balwant Singh Rajoana - a convict in former Punjab Chief Minister (CM) Beant Singh's assassination and Devinderpal Singh Bhullar - 1993 Delhi bomb blast convict. The group has been protesting since January 7, 2023.
Canada 15-Aug-2023
The Canadian police have begun investigating the vandalism of a temple in Surrey, British Columbia, with the temple management seeking arrests and prevention of such acts. CCTV footage of the incident has been collected by the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP). The temple management believes pro-Khalistan elements are trying to provoke the Hindu and Sikh community through such acts.
United States 15-Aug-2023
Unprecedented security was deployed by United States (US) authorities on August 15 at the Indian embassy in Washington DC, US, for a Khalistan rally prompted by the activists' aggressive rhetoric. The local police and US Park Police provided protection, notably around the embassy and the Mahatma Gandhi statue. Despite the embassy's closure for Independence Day, some staff remained on duty. Demonstrators gathered peacefully, closely monitored by mounted police, with the embassy maintaining close coordination with US security forces due to past incidents of vandalism at the San Francisco Indian consulate.
Australia 15-Aug-2023
Khalistan supporters disrupted an Indian Independence Day observance by staging protests at a celebration venue in Sydney, Australia on August 15.
Canada 15-Aug-2023
On August 15, India’s Independence Day celebrations at Canada's missions were marked by a pro-Khalistan protest where Khalistanis burned the Indian flag outside the Indian Consulate in Vancouver, Canada. However, the protests had little impact on festivities in Ottawa and Toronto.
Canada 15-Aug-2023
Canadian Prime Minister (PM) Justin Trudeau, in a statement, emphasized India's partnership with Canada, while Khalistani groups protested against India's alleged involvement in the assassination of Khalistani terrorist and Khalistan Tiger Force (KTF) chief Hardeep Singh Nijjar. Canadian Foreign Minister Melanie Joly conveyed greetings on Twitter, highlighting the robust Canada-India relationship built upon shared interests and enduring connections. Anita Anand, a member of the cabinet, also emphasized the contributions of Indo-Canadians to communities as they commemorated India's Independence Day.
India 15-Aug-2023
Punjab Chief Minister (CM) Bhagwant Mann on August 15 pledged to make the state drug-free by the next Independence Day, emphasizing a comprehensive strategy to combat drug addiction. He attributed unemployment as the root cause of drug issues and highlighted upcoming investments to provide employment opportunities for the youth.
India 15-Aug-2023
During the Independence Day celebrations at Guru Gobind Singh Stadium on August 15, Vidhan Sabha (Legislative Assembly) Deputy Speaker Jai Krishan Singh Rouri highlighted Punjab's significant role in India's Independence movement in Jalandhar district. He noted the origins of freedom movements like Kuka, Pagri Sambhal, Gadar, and Babbar Akali in Punjab.
United Kingdom 15-Aug-2023
A violent clash erupted on August 15 between hundreds of Indians celebrating Independence Day and a group of around five pro-Khalistan British Sikhs outside Southall in West London, United Kingdom (UK). The Indian men were raising slogans in support of India, while the Khalistan supporters declined to participate and were carrying Khalistan flags.
India 15-Aug-2023
A Khalistani supporter disrupted a children's Tiranga (tricolour) rally in Mohali, Sahibzada Ajit Singh (SAS) Nagar district, on India's Independence Day, August 15. The Khalistani supporter claimed that 'Punjab is a separate nation.' The video of the incident was captured on camera and is circulating on social media.
United States 15-Aug-2023
Security was heightened outside the Indian Embassy in Washington DC, United States (US), in anticipation of planned protests by pro-Khalistan groups during India's Independence Day celebrations on August 15. Despite a small gathering of Khalistani separatists, a substantial security presence, including personnel from the US Park Police and Secret Service, effectively prevented major disruptions. The Indian Ambassador to the US, Taranjit Singh Sandhu, raised the flag at India House during the ceremony, which was attended by members of the Indian American community.
India 16-Aug-2023
The Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC) on August 16 organized an ardas (Sikh prayer) at Akal Takht in Amritsar, Punjab, for the second consecutive year, commemorating Punjabis who died in communal violence during the Partition of India. The ardas followed the conclusion of an Akhand Path and Gurbani kirtan.
Canada 16-Aug-2023
The Royal Canadian Mounted Police's (RCMP) Integrated Homicide Investigation Team (IHIT) on August 16 confirmed that they are searching for a third suspect in the killing of Khalistani terrorist and Khalistan Tiger Force (KTF) chief Hardeep Singh Nijjar. The initial two suspects, described as 'heavier-set males wearing face coverings,' were found not to have acted alone.
India 16-Aug-2023
The Border Security Force (BSF) and Punjab Police in a joint operation on August 16 recovered a bottle filled with 200 gm of heroin on the outskirts of Naushera Dhalla village in Tarn Taran district.
India 16-Aug-2023
The Punjab and Haryana High Court was on August 16 informed by a sentence review board that a decision regarding Davinderpal Singh Bhullar’s release will be made within four weeks. Bhullar, a convict in the 1993 Delhi blast case, is seeking premature release, claiming a violation of constitutional rights. Having completed over 27 years of his sentence, which exceeds the required term, his case has faced repeated deferrals.
India 16-Aug-2023
Border Security Force (BSF) and the Punjab Police, during a joint search operation on August 16, recovered 2.8 kilograms of heroin on the outskirts of Machiwara village in Ferozepur district.
India 16-Aug-2023
The Punjab Police on August 16 arrested five individuals linked to the Bambiha gang for their involvement in a series of looting incidents and recovered weapons from them, including an SLR rifle in Bathinda District. The suspects had also snatched a police officer's SLR during a previous encounter with law enforcement.
Canada 16-Aug-2023
The Royal Canadian Mounted Police's (RCMP) Integrated Homicide Investigation Team (IHIT) on August 16 confirmed that they have identified the vehicle used by the suspects in the murder of Hardeep Singh Nijjar, a Khalistani terrorist and the chief of the Khalistan Tiger Force (KTF). The vehicle is described as a silver 2008 Toyota Camry. Nijjar was killed on June 18, 2023, in Surrey, Canada.
India 17-Aug-2023
A Mohali court on August 17 declared sacked Assistant Inspector General of Police (AIG) Raj Jit Singh a proclaimed offender (PO) after he failed to appear in court regarding a drug smuggling case and other charges, including extortion and forgery, for which he was dismissed by the state government. The court rejected Singh's request to postpone the proclamation proceedings, stating it was an attempt to cause delay.
India 17-Aug-2023
According to officials, narcotic smugglers based in Pakistan have adopted a new tactic of using small drones to drop drug payloads into Indian territory, specifically in Punjab. These small drones are difficult to detect due to their quiet flight and long-range capabilities. About 70% of the drones intercepted in the first seven months of the year were small-sized, often manufactured by the Chinese company DJI. These drones are equipped with advanced Artificial Intelligence (AI) capabilities and high-definition cameras, and they are used to drop small quantities of drugs, posing a challenge for security agencies along the border.
India 17-Aug-2023
Jalandhar Rural Police on August 17 arrested a drug smuggler, identified as Joga Singh and seized 8 kilograms of heroin from his possession in Ludhiana in Ludhiana district. Singh is believed to have retrieved the heroin consignment from Pakistan through trans-border networks, according to Punjab Director General of Police (DGP) Gaurav Yadav.
India 17-Aug-2023
Police on August 17 nominated gangster Vikramjeet Singh alias Vikram Brar, a close associate of Lawrence Bishnoi, as the mastermind behind the hoisting of a Khalistan flag at the Faridkot court complex and the painting of pro-Khalistan graffiti on a judge's residence in the Faridkot district in November 2022. Brar was produced before the Faridkot judicial magistrate on August 17 and was remanded in one-day police custody. The crime was carried out based on directions from Brar and Gurpatwant Singh Pannun of the banned Khalistani organization Sikhs For Justice (SFJ), as revealed by the perpetrator.
United Kingdom 17-Aug-2023
The Metropolitan Police on August 17 confirmed that Gurpreet Singh, an Indian Sikh man, has been charged with stabbing two men and possessing a knife in connection to an altercation that took place on August 15 between pro-Khalistan activists and a group of Indian-origin men waving the Indian tricolour on Southall Broadway in West London, United Kingdom (UK). Singh has been remanded in custody and is scheduled to appear at Isleworth Crown Court on September 14. Another man, who was also arrested in connection with this case, was later released on police bail pending further inquiries.
India 17-Aug-2023
The Khanna Police on August 17 announced that they had busted an interstate weapons supply gang and arrested five of its members. On August 4, the police arrested Bikram Singh, Daljeet Singh, Jashandeep Singh, and Jashanpreet Singh, recovering a .32 bore pistol from them at the Punjab PUNSUP Godown in Doraha, Ludhiana district, Punjab. Based on information revealed during questioning, the police arrested Vapinder Singh and recovered three .32 bore pistols from him in Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh on August 13.
India 17-Aug-2023
Punjab Police on August 17 produced gangster Lawrence Bishnoi in Chandigarh District Court related to the murder case of property dealer Rajveer alias Sonu Shah who was killed at his office in 2019. Bishnoi, the main accused, was presented with heightened security measures due to security concerns. Earlier, Bishnoi had claimed responsibility for the murder on social media. He is also accused in other high-profile cases, including the murder of singer-politician Sidhu Moosewala.
India 17-Aug-2023
The National Investigation Agency (NIA) on August 17 was granted a six-day extension of remand for two key terror operatives, identified as Manpreet Singh alias Peeta and Mandeep Singh, linked to Canada-based ‘listed terrorist’ Arshdeep Singh alias Arsh Dalla, by a special court in Delhi. Both were arrested upon their arrival from Manila, Philippines and were wanted for their involvement in terror acts, including funding and supporting banned terrorist organizations like Khalistan Tiger Force (KTF) in India.
India 17-Aug-2023
The Punjab and Haryana High Court (HC) on August 17 issued a 'last opportunity' to the Mohali administration and the Qaumi Insaaf Morcha (QIM) to resolve the issue of the encampment near the Chandigarh-Mohali border in Punjab. The court emphasized the importance of keeping roads open. The QIM had maintained the encampment since January 7, 2022, seeking the release of Sikh prisoners, despite a decline in the number of protesters.
India 18-Aug-2023
Punjab's Special Director General of Police (Law and Order), Arpit Shukla, on August 18, instructed police commissioners and district police chiefs to identify and seize properties of major narco-smugglers arrested along with significant drug quantities. This year, the Punjab Police have already seized and forfeited 30 properties valued at INR 12.99 crores. Shukla also highlighted the collaboration with the Border Security Force (BSF) to disrupt the drug supply chain and counter-drone operations used for drug smuggling across the border. The aim is to make Punjab drug-free, as stated by Punjab Chief Minister (CM) Bhagwant Mann.
India 18-Aug-2023
Punjab Chief Minister (CM) Bhagwant Mann, on August 18, was declared ‘Tankhaiya’ (guilty of religious misconduct) by Akal Takht's 'parallel' Jathedar, Dhian Singh Mand, at Akal Takht in Amritsar. This declaration follows Mann's alleged interference in Sikh matters and his introduction of an amendment Bill in the Sikh Gurdwaras Act of 1925. Despite being given opportunities to clarify his stance, Mann did not appear in person before Akal Takht.