KHALISTAN EXTREMISM MONITOR
A project of the Institute for Conflict Management
A project of the Institute for Conflict Management
India 14-Oct-2023
Punjab Police on October 14 busted a Lashkar-e-Toiba (LeT) terror module by arresting two Jammu and Kashmir-based operatives, identified as Uzair Ul Haq and Raj Mohammad Andleeb along with two IEDs, two hand grenades, one .30 bore pistol with two magazines, 24 cartridges, eight detonators, four batteries, and a timer switch in Amritsar. According to the police, the LeT had planned to use these operatives to target places of strategic importance and prominent personalities in Jammu and Kashmir and Punjab, with the aim of disturbing peace and harmony.
India 14-Oct-2023
Police arrested four Punjab-based drug peddlers, identified as Kulwinder Singh, Gurpal Singh, Kuljit Singh Rana and Kalu Singh and recovered 55 grams of heroin in two separate incidents in Fazilka district.
India 14-Oct-2023
The National Investigation Agency (NIA) on October 14 raided the houses of two youngsters, identified as Aditya and Abhishek to probe their links with drug smugglers and gangsters in Panjkosi and Maujgarh villages in Abohar in Fazilka district.
India 15-Oct-2023
Police on October 15 arrested a drug smuggler, identified as Surinder Singh alias Shinda, and recovered 1 kg of heroin, a 9-mm pistol, INR 8.5 lakh drug money and two cars, after an encounter at Nurmahal in Jalandhar district.
India 15-Oct-2023
The Special Task Force (STF) arrested three drug smugglers and recovered 2.5 kg of heroin in the Gharinda area of Amritsar district on October 15.
India 15-Oct-2023
Ferozepur police arrested two persons, identified as Rajdeep Singh and Amrik Singh along with 2 kilograms of heroin in Ferozepur district on October 15.
India 15-Oct-2023
Police on October 15 arrested two persons, identified as Surjit alias Bulla and Sukhjinder Singh and recovered 25 grams of heroin from their possession in Kapurthala district.
India 15-Oct-2023
The Border Security Force (BSF) recovered a drone in a paddy field near the International Border in Ferozepur district on October 15.
India 15-Oct-2023
Police on October 15 placed Damdami Taksal (Sangrawan faction) chief Baba Ram Singh and his son Rajandeep Singh under house arrest in Amritsar. They were prevented from attending Gurdwara Guru Amardas Jee in Athwal village, where they were scheduled to lead a 'Khalsa Vahir' procession, that was recently initiated by Sikh separatist leader Amritpal Singh, which was intended to go to Sri Goindwal Sahib. However, the house arrest of the faction chief led to the postponement of the procession.
Canada 15-Oct-2023
A procession of vehicles, organized by pro-Khalistan elements, on October 15 paraded near the Lakshmi Narayan Mandir in Surrey, British Columbia. They displayed posters of separatist leaders and chanted divisive slogans. Satish Kumar, who serves as the president of the Lakshmi Narayan Mandir in Surrey, described this event as ‘intimidating,’ especially since it took place on a day when the temple was filled with devotees celebrating Navratri. Meanwhile, Canadian Prime Minister (PM) Justin Trudeau wished the Hindu community on Navratri festival.
India 15-Oct-2023
Police arrested a drug peddler, identified as Baljeet Singh along with 50 grams of heroin from near the area of Dussehra ground on Altos Chowk in Ludhiana district on October 15.
United States 15-Oct-2023
A 19-year-old Sikh man was allegedly assaulted in New York City, United States (US), for wearing a turban while traveling on a shuttle bus on October 15. According to the New York Police, the suspect was riding on an MTA bus when he approached a male passenger wearing a turban and said, 'We don't wear that in this country. Take that off.' The suspect then punched the victim in the face, back, and the back of his head, causing cuts and pain.
India 16-Oct-2023
Former Indian Foreign Services (IFS) officer Amar Jit Singh on October 16 criticized the Shiromani Gurudwara Prabandhak Committee (SGPC) for eulogizing terrorists involved in the Khalistan movement. The SGPC's recent posts, which honour individuals like Harjinder Singh Jinda and Sukhdev Singh Sukha, members of the Khalistani terror outfit Khalistan Commando Force (KCF) responsible for high-profile assassinations during the Punjab insurgency, have raised concerns. The SGPC has also been accused of taking anti-India stances, opposing government decisions, and supporting Khalistani elements. Critics argue that the SGPC, influenced by a distorted version of Sikh history attributed to Arthur Macauliffe, has strayed from its original purpose and is promoting a narrow agenda.
India 16-Oct-2023
As per reports, during the 91st general assembly of Interpol scheduled to take place in Vienna, Austria from November 28 to December 1, the Director of India's Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), Praveen Sood, intends to raise the issue of taking action against fugitives and criminals, which includes Khalistani radicals operating from countries like Canada, the UK, the US, Australia, and Europe. Furthermore, he is anticipated to request international law enforcement agencies to expedite the processing of mutual legal assistance (MLA) requests, through which information or evidence is sought, so that investigations can be completed on time.
Pakistan 16-Oct-2023
According to reports, there have been calls for the establishment of Khalistan in the central area of Karachi in Pakistan with slogans proclaiming, "Pakistan Banega Khalistan, Karachi Banega Khalistan, Mulla Banega Khalsa." A video displaying these slogans has garnered substantial attention on social media. Pakistan has faced allegations of encouraging separatist sentiments in Punjab, particularly through its support for the Khalistan movement and assistance to Khalistani militants. This situation has escalated to the extent that pro-Khalistan slogans are now surfacing in the region, the report said.
India 16-Oct-2023
The Akal Takht, the highest temporal authority for Sikhs, on October 16 issued a prohibition on the placement of Guru Granth Sahib during destination weddings held at beachside and resort venues, citing a breach of the code of conduct.
India 16-Oct-2023
The Punjab and Haryana High Court (HC), while criticizing law enforcement officers for failing to appear as official witnesses in a drug-related case at a Hoshiarpur court, remarked that it appears the local police may have cooperated with individuals involved in the smuggling of narcotics substances.
India 16-Oct-2023
A Patiala resident, Jagir Singh (71), declared dead in a police encounter 31 years ago in Ajnala in Amritsar, has been found alive. Interestingly, the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) is currently prosecuting four Punjab Police officers, including two deceased, on charges of allegedly killing Jagir Singh and Daljit Singh in what is now regarded as a 'fake' encounter that occurred on December 29, 1992. The CBI's investigation also revealed that not only is Jagir still alive, but he also served 15 years as a convict in a drug smuggling case within Amritsar Jail. Remarkably, the case under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act was registered at the very Ajnala police station where the initial First Information Report (FIR) for the police encounter, listing Jagir's name and details, was filed.
Canada 17-Oct-2023
As of its closure on October 17, it has been reported that a petition, known as e-4507, aimed at having the House of Commons in Canada officially recognize ‘Hinduphobia’ as a term in the Human Rights Code glossary, had garnered over 25,000 signatures. This surpasses the minimum requirement of 500 signatures necessary for the petition to be brought to the government's attention for a response. The petition, sponsored by MP Melissa Lantsman, who serves as the deputy leader of the opposition Conservative Party in the House of Commons, was launched on July 19 and is categorized under Civil and Human Rights.
Canada 17-Oct-2023
According to reports, Khalistani sympathisers from the United States (US) and the United Kingdom (UK), have recently gathered in Vancouver, Canada, to showcase their collective strength, under the leadership of Amritbir Singh Cheema, a gangster of Jalandhar origin who is wanted in numerous cases in Punjab. Cheema has been residing in Canada since 2015 and has sought asylum there. Sources indicate that this group is also utilizing a radio program as a platform to radicalize individuals, with most of the callers hailing from California, US. An official said, “They have hired a radio station named Radio Punjab Vancouver for a daily two-hour show to radicalise people.” Local Sikhs have reportedly lodged complaints with the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) concerning these activities. However, the RCMP has allegedly declined to take action, citing it as an internal matter between Khalistani groups and the Government of India.
India 17-Oct-2023
Punjab Police on October 17 arrested four operatives of a terror module backed by Pakistan-based terrorist Rinda and operated by US-based gangster Harpreet Singh alias Happy Passia, identified as Vikramjit Singh alias Raja Bains, Bawa Singh, Gurkirpal Singh alias Gagan Randhawa, and Amanat Gill and recovered a .32 bore pistol along with 10 live cartridges from them in Sahibzada Ajit Singh Nagar district. The Director General of Police (DGP) Punjab, Gaurav Yadav, stated that, following intelligence inputs about Rinda and Happy Passia hiring two shooters and planning to target some prominent persons in the state, police teams from the state special operation cell of SAS Nagar launched an operation and successfully apprehended the accused. Preliminary investigations revealed that Happy Passia had made a deal with Vikramjit for INR 15 lakh to carry out a target killing.
United States 17-Oct-2023
The Indian-origin Sikh mayor of Hoboken city in New Jersey, United States (US), Ravi Bhalla, in an interview on October 17, revealed that he has been the target of a series of threatening letters that mentioned killing him and his family due to his practice of the Sikh faith.
United States 17-Oct-2023
A video that is going viral on X showed that pro-Khalistan posters installed outside Fremont Gurudwara in California, United States (US) were torn down by a man who was later handed over to the Police. Based on the viral footage, the Pro-Khalistan posters were actually 'Kill India' posters with a picture of slain Khalistani terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar accusing Indian diplomats of assassinating him in Canada.
Canada 17-Oct-2023
According to reports, pro-Khalistan terror outfit, Sikh For Justice (SFJ) announced a donation of USD 21,000 to support those impacted by the recent increase in violence in Gaza, which is linked to Israel's actions against Palestinians following a surprise attack by Hamas. This contribution was sent to the United Nations Agency for Palestinian Refugees by the Guru Nanak Sikh Gurdwara in Surrey, British Columbia.
India 17-Oct-2023
The state special operating cell (SSOC) on October 17 busted an extortion racket and arrested three members of Canada-based slain Khalistani gangster Sukhdool Singh alias Sukha Duneke’s gang identified as Vishal Singh, Ranvir Singh and Monu Kumar alias Monu Gujjar along with two .32 bore pistols and 12 live cartridges in Sahibzada Ajit Singh (SAS) Nagar district. Vishal and Ranvir were arrested from Kharar, SAS Nagar with .32 bore pistol and eight live rounds in their possession, Monu Gujjar was arrested from Patran, SAS Nagar with another .32 bore pistol along with four live rounds in his possession.
India 18-Oct-2023
The Anti-Gangster Task Force (AGTF) of the Punjab Police on October 18 arrested an operative of the Lawrence Bishnoi and Goldy Brar gang, identified as Sachin alias Bacchi along with four pistols and 12 cartridges from in Landran, Kharar, in Sahibzada Ajit Singh Nagar district. Assistant Inspector General (AIG) of AGTF, Sandeep Goel, stated that Sachin has a criminal record and was wanted by the Punjab Police. The preliminary investigations revealed that Sachin and other members of the gang were hatching a conspiracy to attack targets assigned to them by their foreign handlers.
India 18-Oct-2023
Two gangsters hailing from Punjab, allegedly involved in 11 cases, including attempted murder and kidnapping, identified as Pancham Noor Singh (32) and Himanshu Mata (30), were arrested in the Kurla area of Mumbai, Maharashtra, on October 18.
India 18-Oct-2023
The National Commission for Minorities (NCM) on October 18 conducted a virtual meeting with the chief secretaries, home secretaries, and minority department secretaries from Delhi, Jammu and Kashmir, as well as eight other states on action taken by them for granting compensation to the 1984 anti-Sikh riot victims. The discussions during the meeting focused on the efforts made by the respective governments to deliver relief, compensation, and justice to the victims of the 1984 anti-Sikh riots.
United States 18-Oct-2023
Australian Security Intelligence Organisation (ASIO) Director-General Mike Burgess, speaking in California, United States (US), said that he has 'no reason to dispute' claims of a possible link between the Indian government and the killing of a Canadian citizen and Sikh separatist leader Hardeep Singh Nijjar in Canada. He stated, “There's no doubt that any allegation of one country being accused of carrying out the execution of a citizen in another country is a serious matter, something that we don't engage in, and something that nations should refrain from doing.”
India 18-Oct-2023
The families of victims who were killed or affected by the 1984 anti-Sikh riots on October 18 expressed their dissatisfaction with the justice provided by the Indian Government. They stated that a protest would be organized in Ludhiana on November 5 if the government did not address their legitimate demands.
India 19-Oct-2023
The Punjab Police on October 19 dismantled a terror funding module with ties to Pakistan-based Harwinder Singh Rinda and being operated by Parminder Pindi, by arresting five of its operatives in different locations within the Batala, Gurdaspur district. The individuals arrested were identified as Amanpreet Walia, Ramanbir Singh alias Fouji, Arshpreet Singh, Harmanpreet Singh, and Kirandeep Kaur. The Director General of Police (DGP), Gaurav Yadav, stated that the arrests followed incidents in which liquor vends in Batala were targeted through arson or firing in an attempt to extort money from liquor contractors. Preliminary investigations have revealed that all the accused were acting on the directives of their local handler, Parminder Pindi, who was making threats and demanding extortion for terror funding from liquor contractors.
India 19-Oct-2023
The National Investigation Agency (NIA) on October 19 filed a charge sheet in a special court in New Delhi against gangster Lawrence Bishnoi in a case related to the seizure of approximately 39 kg of heroin by the Gujarat Police.
India 19-Oct-2023
Bhupinder Singh Assandh, the president of the ad hoc committee of the Haryana Sikh Gurdwara Management Committee (HSGMC), on October 19 announced that the state government has accepted their proposal, allowing only Keshdhari and Sabat Surat Sikhs, who have faith in Guru Granth Sahib and follow all 10 Sikh gurus, to have voting rights in the upcoming HSGMC elections in Haryana.
India 19-Oct-2023
Amid escalating diplomatic tension between India and Canada over the killing of Khalistani terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar, the Canadian government has removed a total of 41 diplomats from India after New Delhi threatened to revoke their immunity. Canada's Foreign Minister, Mélanie Joly, stated that 41 of Canada's 62 diplomats in India have been removed, along with their dependents. Joly also mentioned that exceptions have been made for 21 Canadian diplomats who will remain in India.
United States 19-Oct-2023
Jasmer Singh, a 66-year-old Indian-American Sikh man, was beaten in a road-rage incident on October 19 in Queens, New York City in the United States (US). He succumbed to his injuries on October 20. His family is seeking hate crime charges against the alleged killer, identified as Gilbert Augustin. Singh's family believes the attack may have been a hate crime, as Singh was targeted based on his appearance, and they are seeking justice in the case.
India 20-Oct-2023
The process for preparing electoral rolls for the upcoming Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC) general elections in India will commence on October 21, with a notable addition in the self-declaration form. Sikh voters are now required to affirm their belief in Sri Guru Granth Sahib and the 10 Sikh Gurus while following no other religion.
Pakistan 20-Oct-2023
The Evacuee Trust Property Board (ETPB) spokesperson, Aamir Hashmi, on October 20 revealed the board's decision to digitize five temples and gurdwaras in Pakistan. The sites include Gurdwara Darbar Sahib, Kartarpur Sahib, Gurdwara Panja Sahib, Hasan Abdal, Katas Raj temple, Chakwal, Gurdwara Janam Asthan, Nankana Sahib, and Sadhu Bela Mandir, Sukkur. The initiative aims to provide virtual tours for devotees and enhance their spiritual connection with these religious sites. The tours will be accessible from anywhere with an internet connection. The ETPB manages properties left behind by Hindus and Sikhs who migrated to India after the 1947 partition.
India 20-Oct-2023
The Border Security Force (BSF) and Punjab Police, during a joint operation on October 20 recovered a broken drone in Marimegha village in Tarn Taran district. The recovered drone was a made in China Quadcopter of DJI Matrice 300 RTK.
India 20-Oct-2023
The Batala police on October 20 recovered two kg of heroin from an agricultural field in Haruwal village in Gurdaspur district. A drone was spotted in the area around two weeks ago, prompting a search operation.
India 20-Oct-2023
Punjab Police's Anti-Gangster Task Force (AGTF) on October 20 arrested four key operatives of the Bambiha gang, identified as Lakhvir Kumar alias Lucky, Ravi Kumar alias Fauji, Gurvinder Singh alias Matto, and Jatinder Singh alias Soni and seized four pistols, including two sophisticated automatic and semi-automatic foreign-made pistols and two country-made pistols, along with 25 live cartridges and two motorcycles from their possession in Dhakoli in Sahibzada Ajit Singh (SAS) Nagar district. The operatives were allegedly working under the leadership of foreign-based gangster Gaurav Kumar alias Lucky Patyal, who remains at large.
Canada 20-Oct-2023
Canadian Prime Minister (PM) Justin Trudeau on October 20 expressed concerns over the Indian government's actions, stating that they are disrupting the lives of millions of people in both countries and violating diplomatic principles, while addressing a press conference in Brampton, Canada. Canada recently withdrew 41 diplomats in response to Indian threats following Trudeau's suggestion of Indian involvement in a murder, and the situation is expected to impact travel, trade, and Indian students studying in Canada. Canada now has 21 diplomats remaining in India.
India 20-Oct-2023
The chief of the banned Khalistani terror outfit Sikhs For Justice (SFJ), Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, in a recently released video, urged pro-Khalistan Sikhs and Palestinians to participate in ‘Kill India’ rallies in various locations, including Canada and Palestine, in response to alleged acts of terrorism involving Indian agents in G7 nations. Pannun also demanded the closure of Indian embassies in protest of Narendra Modi's anti-Palestine policies. Pannun emphasized the shared solidarity between pro-Khalistan Sikhs and Palestinians, both facing challenges related to genocide and historical persecution.
India 20-Oct-2023
The Consulate General of Canada in Chandigarh on October 20 suspended its consular services amid diplomatic tensions with India. Services will be redirected to the High Commission of Canada in New Delhi, causing inconvenience to individuals seeking Canadian visas and raising questions about the impact of the suspension on their plans.
India 21-Oct-2023
According to sources, India is considering approaching the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) to address Canada's alleged inaction against terror funding operations on its soil, particularly those related to Khalistani elements. This move comes as diplomatic tensions between India and Canada escalate, with India seeking to refocus attention on the issues of terror funding and safe havens for terrorists in Canada. India has accused Canada of not cooperating in deporting or extraditing terrorists and aims to pressure FATF to take a tougher stance on Canada in this regard.
India 21-Oct-2023
According to Police officials, illegal weapons manufacturing units in Madhya Pradesh (MP) have become a growing concern for Punjab Police, as they have discovered organized gangs smuggling 512 illegally manufactured weapons from MP into Punjab over the past two years. The relatively good quality of these arms has made the MP units popular among criminals. Punjab's counter-intelligence unit is actively addressing this issue, especially after a module of the Khalistan Liberation Front (KLF) used these weapons in an attack on a right-wing leader. Various arrests have been made in connection with these illegal weapon-manufacturing and smuggling activities.
India 21-Oct-2023
The Jathedar of Sri Akal Takht Sahib, Giani Raghbir Singh, on October 21 emphasized the importance of adhering to the Sikh practice of maintaining uncut hair (kesh) and warned against individuals who spread misleading information to dilute the Sikh identity in Amritsar, Punjab. He called on the Sikh community to remain vigilant against anti-Sikh forces and urged the government to take action against those who spread misleading and divisive propaganda.
India 21-Oct-2023
The Border Security Force (BSF) on October 21 apprehended a Pakistani national after he had entered the Indian territory near Chaharpur village in Ajnala tehsil in Amritsar district. He was handed over to the Pakistani authorities on October 22 after it was established that he had crossed over inadvertently.
India 21-Oct-2023
Kirandeep Kaur, the wife of Pro-Khalistan preacher and Waris Punjab De (WPD) chief Amritpal Singh, on October 21 stated that Amritpal was granted permission by the new Deputy Commissioner (DC) of Amritsar, Ghanshyam Thori, to meet his new lawyer, Rajdev Singh, at Dibrugarh jail in Assam, where he is detained under the National Security Act (NSA).
India 21-Oct-2023
The Punjab State Special Operating Cell (SSOC) on October 21 arrested four members of the Lawrence Bishnoi gang, identified as Supreet Singh alias Preet, Armandeep Singh alias Arman, Jajbir Singh, and Hardeep Singh and seized two .32 bore pistols and six rounds from their possession in Mohali, Sahibzada Ajit Singh (SAS) Nagar district. In addition, another gang member, Amandeep Singh alias Mani Topi, was arrested, and the police seized a pistol from his possession. Mani Topi attempted to escape during a pistol recovery operation, resulting in a leg fracture. These accused were operating under the direction of Tarsem Singh alias Saba, who is originally from Abohar, Fazilka, but is currently residing in the United States (US). Tarsem Singh is an old associate of the gangster Lawrence Bishnoi.
Canada 22-Oct-2023
In an interview, the leader of the Conservative Party of Canada, Pierre Poilievre, criticized Prime Minister (PM) Justin Trudeau, labelling him as 'incompetent' for damaging Canada's relations with India. He also stated that the PM is considered a 'laughing stock' in India. Poilievre pledged to repair these ties if he becomes the Prime Minister, highlighting Trudeau's divisive domestic policies and foreign relations missteps.
United States 22-Oct-2023
According to reports, a group of pro-Khalistani Sikhs in the United States (US) staged a protest outside the Indian Embassy in Washington DC, expressing support for Khalistan and condemning India. They called on the US to pressure the Narendra Modi-led Indian government to end Sikh-related atrocities and endorse the establishment of Khalistan. Additionally, they demanded justice for the family of Khalistani terrorist Hardeep Singh Nagar, who was killed in Canada.
India 22-Oct-2023
The Indian External Affairs Minister (EAM) S. Jaishankar, in New Delhi, on October 22 subtly blamed Canada's ruling Liberal Party, led by Prime Minister (PM) Justin Trudeau, for strained bilateral relations, citing concerns over Canada's handling of Khalistani extremists.
India 22-Oct-2023
The Border Security Force (BSF) and Punjab Police on October 22 recovered three packets of heroin weighing 2.916 kilograms and a drone battery with a capacity of 5935 milliampere-hours (mAh) from a nearby paddy field on the outskirts of Mastgarh village in Tarn Taran district. The joint search operation was launched based on specific information regarding the presence of contraband items in the area.
India 22-Oct-2023
The Border Security Force (BSF) troops recovered a quadcopter in broken condition from the field near Rao Ke Hitar Village in Ferozepur district.
India 22-Oct-2023
According to police sources, Kapurthala district in Punjab is grappling with an alarming increase in women involved in drug trafficking, with 25 First Information Reports (FIR) filed against women for narcotics peddling in the past year at the Subhanpur police station. Around 40% of drug-related FIRs in Subhanpur involve women. This surge in female involvement in the drug trade has been partly attributed to videos of women selling drugs circulating on social media. Economic incentives, particularly for families, and the incarceration of husbands or family members in drug-related cases are driving factors behind women's participation in this illicit trade. Police have conducted awareness campaigns but face challenges in persuading women to give up drug peddling.
India 22-Oct-2023
Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Gulneet Singh Khurana on October 22 revealed in an attempt to combat drug addiction, a vigilante anti-drug committee took the law into their own hands by kidnapping a suspected drug smuggler identified as Daljinder Singh alias Noor, brutally beating him to death, and disposing of his body in a drain in Ghumman Kalan village in Bathinda district. The Bathinda police have registered a case against 14 committee members, including the head of the committee, and arrested two persons.
India 22-Oct-2023
The Punjab Police on October 22 busted a gang involved in the smuggling of arms from Madhya Pradesh and supplying them in Punjab by arresting three individuals identified as Anmol Singh, Karandeep Masih and Jagroop Singh and seized 11 pistols — six .32 bore and five .30 bore pistols — along with magazines and 15 cartridges, INR 2 lakh cash and one motorcycle from their possession in Fatehgarh Churian in Batala in Gurdaspur district. The smugglers were transporting illegal weapons from Madhya Pradesh (MP) with funding received through 'hawala' from their accomplices based in the United States (US), identified as Kirandeep Singh Randhawa and Jarmanjit Singh. The police operation was initiated based on secret information, with efforts to uncover the entire network and procurement chain. The gang was also allegedly conspiring to target rival gang members, leading to multiple charges filed against them.The Punjab Police on October 22 busted a gang involved in the smuggling of arms from Madhya Pradesh and supplying them in Punjab by arresting three individuals identified as Anmol Singh, Karandeep Masih and Jagroop Singh and seized 11 pistols — six .32 bore and five .30 bore pistols — along with magazines and 15 cartridges, INR 2 lakh cash and one motorcycle from their possession in Fatehgarh Churian in Batala in Gurdaspur district. The smugglers were transporting illegal weapons from Madhya Pradesh (MP) with funding received through 'hawala' from their accomplices based in the United States (US), identified as Kirandeep Singh Randhawa and Jarmanjit Singh. The police operation was initiated based on secret information, with efforts to uncover the entire network and procurement chain. The gang was also allegedly conspiring to target rival gang members, leading to multiple charges filed against them.
India 22-Oct-2023
The Indian External Affairs Minister (EAM) S. Jaishankar on October 22 reiterated India's commitment to maintaining diplomatic parity with Canada and he expressed concerns over Canadian interference in Indian affairs during an event in New Delhi. Despite the diplomatic tensions, Canada's visa services continue to operate in India, although processing times may be affected due to reduced staffing. Canada has a significant Indian-origin population, particularly among Sikhs, and hosts a large number of Indian international students. This diplomatic dispute has significant implications for both nations.
United States 22-Oct-2023
Mayor Ravi S Bhalla of Hoboken, New Jersey in the United States (US) on October 22 condemned recent hate crimes against Sikhs in the US, expressing concern over the rising violence and threats against the Sikh community.
India 22-Oct-2023
Amritsar City Police on October 22 arrested two individuals, identified as Amarjit Singh and Mani Masih, and seized 100 grams of heroin from their possession near the Metro shopping in Amritsar district.
India 23-Oct-2023
The State Special Operation Cell (SSOC) of Punjab Police on October 23 busted a cross-border smuggling racket by arresting a drug trafficker, identified as Rahul along with 12 kilograms of heroin and a Honda Amaze car in Amritsar district. According to the Police, Rahul had direct connections with the notorious drug smuggler Ranjeet alias Cheeta.
India 23-Oct-2023
Two unidentified masked and armed men shot at kabaddi player Harvinder Singh Bindri in Nihal Singh Wala town in Moga district on October 23. The incident, captured on CCTV, involved the attackers conversing with Singh's mother before shooting him in the foot. Initial investigations suggest that the attackers were sent by someone abroad to intimidate Singh, possibly due to his participation in the upcoming panchayat elections.
India 23-Oct-2023
The Punjab and Haryana High Court (HC) on October 23 rejected the parole plea of Paramjit Singh Bheora, a convict in the assassination case of former Punjab Chief Minister Beant Singh. Bheora had sought parole to attend his niece's wedding in Delhi on October 29, but the plea was dismissed as there is no provision in the Punjab Jail Manual or relevant rules for the release of convicted prisoners to attend family events. Bheora, who led the terrorist organization Babbar Khalsa International (BKI), was sentenced to life imprisonment in 2010 for his involvement in the 1995 car blast that killed the former CM.
Canada 23-Oct-2023
Pro-Khalistani elements, including supporters of the banned Khalistani terrorist group Sikhs For Justice (SFJ), on October 23 staged protests outside the Indian consulate in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada. They raised anti-India slogans during the demonstration, and photos and videos of the protest circulated widely on social media, bringing attention to their activities in the region.
India 23-Oct-2023
According to sources, Canadian diplomats in Chandigarh and Punjab have been abusing their powers to grant visas to individuals with criminal backgrounds who support the Khalistan cause. These visas are being issued to bolster the Khalistan movement. Additionally, Canada's refusal to assist in extradition cases and its perceived interference in India's affairs have strained relations between the two countries.
Canada 24-Oct-2023
According to sources, Khalistani groups in Canada planned to disrupt a Hindu community event on October 24 in Surrey, British Columbia, Canada. These sources also mentioned that supporters of Khalistan intended to obstruct the Hindu event using vehicles, bring in protestors for a referendum in Surrey and Vancouver within the British Columbia province of Canada, and possibly burn effigies of Indian leaders as tensions escalated. These groups are utilizing radio stations to radicalize Sikh youth and are reportedly receiving support from various international locations, including the United States (US), the United Kingdom (UK), Italy, and Germany, to further their Khalistan-related goals within Canadian territory. Canadian authorities are hesitating to intervene, citing the issue as part of the ongoing tension between India and Sikhs while emphasizing freedom of speech.
Canada 24-Oct-2023
The Khalsa Diwan Society in Vancouver and other Sikh societies in the British Columbia province of Canada wrote to India's External Affairs Minister (EAM), S. Jaishankar, on October 24, expressing concerns about the Indian government's visa changes affecting Canadian citizens. They highlighted the inconvenience caused to Canadian tourists and individuals with prior travel plans and requested the resumption of the visa process.
India 24-Oct-2023
Former Delhi Sikh Gurdwara Management Committee (DSGMC) head Paramjit Singh Sarna on October 24 accused the current DSGMC body of misusing funds and sought the intervention of Akal Takht Jathedar to scrutinize their finances in Amritsar, Punjab.
India 24-Oct-2023
The Border Security Force (BSF) and Punjab Police on October 24 recovered a small bottle filled with 356 grams of heroin and a drone from the outskirts of Mastgarh village in Tarn Taran district. The recovered drone was a Quadcopter of model DJI Mavic 3 Classic.
India 24-Oct-2023
The Punjab Police have made a significant drug seizure of 1,090 kg of heroin in less than 10 months this year, surpassing the previous highest recovery of 759.82 kg in 2020. During this period, they registered 9,571 cases and arrested 13,197 individuals, with around 3,000 of them considered major offenders. The authorities also confiscated 778.36 kg of opium, 32,883.04 kg of poppy husk, 55.44 kg of charas, and 0.07 kg of cocaine. While the crackdown on drug smuggling has intensified, the recorded recovery remains a fraction of the total drug consumption in Punjab, estimated at four to five lakh heroin addicts.
India 24-Oct-2023
Jamalpur Police on October 24 arrested four drug peddlers, identified as Ashu Mehta, Amandeep Singh, Maninder Singh and Suman Tiwari, and seized 260 grams of heroin, an electronic weighing machine and a Maruti Suzuki Swift car from their possession in Jamalpur in Ludhiana district.
India 24-Oct-2023
The Barnala police on October 24 revealed that they have arrested four former kabaddi players, identified as Parmjit Singh, Jagraj Singh, Gurmeet Singh, and Wajir Singh, who were allegedly involved in the murder of Head Constable Darshan Singh and seized a country-made .315 bore pistol, two live cartridges, a car, and a motorcycle from their possession in Barnala in Barnala district. During their arrest, Parmjit Singh sustained injuries in a brief encounter with the police, leading to an additional attempt-to-murder case being filed against him.
India 24-Oct-2023
The Border Security Force (BSF) on October 24 intercepted a drone and recovered 420 grams of heroin near the International Border (IB) near Wan village in Tarn Taran district.
India 24-Oct-2023
Pro-Khalistan slogans threatening to create 'Khalistan' in Rajasthan and targeting prominent figures, including the Prime Minister, were discovered in the Hanumangarh railway yard in Hanumangarh district of Rajasthan, on October 24. Intelligence and security agencies are concerned about potential unrest in the area due to its significant Sikh population and suspect the involvement of individuals traveling from Punjab.
Canada 25-Oct-2023
The Indian High Commission in Canada on October 25 announced that India will resume visa services in Canada starting on October 26. India had previously suspended visa services on September 21, 2023, due to security concerns. The resumption will cover entry, business, medical, and conference visas, but it will not include tourist, employment, student, and film categories. Security concerns stemming from anti-India activities, including pro-Khalistan elements, continue to pose a challenge, and the decision to relax the visa regime is contingent on improved security conditions.
Canada 25-Oct-2023
India's High Commissioner to Canada, Sanjay Kumar Verma, in an interview on October 25, indicated that Pro-Khalistan elements targeting Indian diplomats and missions in Canada pose a significant challenge. While personal security measures have been implemented, the situation remains unfavourable for normal diplomatic and consular functions.
Canada 25-Oct-2023
An e-petition for the recognition of Hinduphobia in Canada, e-4507, closed on October 17 with 25,794 signatures, which exceeded the 500 signatures required to elicit a response from the Government and is expected to be presented in Parliament in November, in Ottawa, Canada. The petition, sponsored by Conservative Party Member of Parliament (MP) Melissa Lantsman, defines Hinduphobia as anti-Hindu sentiment and seeks equal protection for Hindus in accordance with the Canadian Charter and Human Rights Codes. Several Hindu organizations, representing the approximately 850,000 Hindus in Canada, have written to Canadian MPs seeking their support for this initiative, citing concerns about rising Hinduphobia and security threats.
India 25-Oct-2023
Waris Punjab De (WPD) chief Amritpal Singh's father, Tarsem Singh, was allegedly prevented from boarding an international flight at Amritsar Airport in Punjab on October 25. While the destination remains unclear, it's believed he was heading to Qatar to oversee the family's transportation business. However, no official statement has been released regarding the incident.
India 25-Oct-2023
The Border Security Force (BSF) on October 25 recovered a China-made drone near the international border (IB) in a paddy field near Dhanoe Khurd village in Amritsar district. The recovered drone was a Quadcopter Model - DJI Mavice 3 Classic.
India 25-Oct-2023
Police on October 25 arrested four members of an arms supply gang, identified as Sorav Kumar, Ranjit Singh, Shivraj Soni, and Kushar Ashis Ram Saroop and seized five pistols, comprising three of .32 bore caliber and two of .315 bore, along with 26 live cartridges and two laptops from their possession in Mohali, Sahibzada Ajit Singh (SAS) Nagar district.
India 25-Oct-2023
The Border Security Force (BSF) on October 25 recovered two bottles containing 1.5 kg of heroin from a field near Dal village in Tarn Taran district.
India 25-Oct-2023
The Border Security Force (BSF) on October 25 recovered a China-made drone on the outskirts of Dhanoe Khurd village in Amritsar district. The recovered drone is a Quadcopter (DJI Mavic 3 Classic).
India 25-Oct-2023
Police on October 25 arrested a drug supplier, identified as Ranjeet Singh alias Rana, and recovered 105 grams of heroin from his possession in Daoke village in Amritsar district. Rana revealed that his village near the India-Pakistan border was a hub for heroin smuggling, and he had been in contact with Pakistani-based suppliers via WhatsApp.
India 25-Oct-2023
Gurmit Singh Pinky, a former militant with links to the Khalistani terror outfit Babbar Khalsa International (BKI) who later became an informer, died on October 25 at a hospital in Chandigarh.
Canada 26-Oct-2023
The banned Khalistani terror outfit Sikhs For Justice (SFJ) is scheduled to conduct a second round of voting for its Khalistan referendum on October 29 in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada. Reports suggest that allegations made by Canada regarding potential links between India and the killing of Khalistani terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar have emboldened support for the Khalistan movement, leading to an increase in participation in an unofficial referendum organized by SFJ. Supporters who were previously hesitant to voice their opinions now feel more confident in expressing their positions, as Prime Minister (PM) Justin Trudeau's statement about credible allegations of Indian government involvement has spurred frank discussions. India denies any connection to Nijjar's death, and Canada's relations with India have become strained following Trudeau's statement.
India 26-Oct-2023
The Border Security Force (BSF) and Punjab Police in a joint search operation on October 26 recovered a drone on the outskirts of Bharopal village in Amritsar district. The recovered drone is a Quadcopter (Model - DJI Mavic 3 Classic, made in China).
India 26-Oct-2023
The Border Security Force (BSF) and Punjab Police in a joint search operation on October 26 recovered six packets of heroin weighing 6.279 kilograms from Adhian village in Gurdaspur district.
India 26-Oct-2023
The Border Security Force (BSF) on October 26 recovered a small bottle containing 360 grams of heroin from a field near Daoke village in Amritsar district.
India 26-Oct-2023
According to reports, the Khalistan movement appears to be gaining visibility in Rajasthan, as 'Khalistan Zindabad' slogans were discovered in Hanumangarh, Rajasthan on October 24, and videos promoting the cause were shared on social media. These incidents have raised concerns about the movement's influence in the region, with references to Khalistan's flag being raised and calls for revenge. The banned Khalistani terror outfit Sikhs For Justice (SFJ), which advocates for Khalistan, was banned in India under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act.
India 26-Oct-2023
According to sources, India resumed some visa services in Canada on October 26 as a result of over 10 days of discussions at various levels. This indicates that Canadian authorities have shown "greater responsiveness" to India's concerns regarding the safety of its diplomatic premises and personnel. Visa services have been eased in several categories, benefiting persons of Indian origin (PIOs) and business interactions. However, tourist, student, employment, and film visas are yet to be resumed. The diplomatic tensions arose following allegations of Indian involvement in the killing of a pro-Khalistan figure in Canada, which led to diplomatic expulsions and visa suspensions by both countries.
India 26-Oct-2023
Bangladesh's Minister of Liberation War Affairs, A.K.M. Mozammel Huq, on October 26 stated in New Delhi that killers, particularly those involved in the assassination of Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, the country's founding father, should not find shelter in any country, referring to the fugitives who fled to Canada. The primary accused in Sheikh Mujibur Rahman's assassination, Noor Chowdhury, has been living in Canada since 1996, but extradition requests have been rejected based on Canada's Extradition Act.
Canada 27-Oct-2023
According to reports, the banned Khalistani terror outfit Sikhs For Justice (SFJ) is planning an ambitious series of so-called Khalistan Referendums across Canada next year, with the first phase scheduled for October 29 in Surrey in British Columbia. This initiative follows Canadian Prime Minister (PM) Justin Trudeau's statement, in which he suggested Indian involvement in the killing of Khalistani terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar. Reports indicate that SFJ intends to influence the 2025 Canadian federal elections and expects increased support following Trudeau's statement. The group also plans multiple voting phases in various cities across Canada.
India 27-Oct-2023
The International Criminal Police Organization (Interpol) recently issued a red-corner notice against Yogesh Kadian, a gangster from Haryana, for criminal conspiracy and attempted murder. Kadian escaped from India to seek refuge in the United States (US) about two years ago. He is involved in efforts to take down gangster Lawrence Bishnoi and is associated with the Babinha gang in the US, having fled India using a fake passport at the age of 17.
India 27-Oct-2023
The Border Security Force (BSF) on October 27 shot down a drone near the international border (IB) and recovered 3 kg of narcotics suspected to be heroin near Mastgarh village in Tarn Taran district.
India 27-Oct-2023
Officials revealed on October 27 that the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has issued notices to the Punjab government and the state's prison chief following a report stating that 42% of prisoners in Punjab jails are 'drug addicts.' The NHRC is concerned about potential human rights violations and has requested a detailed report within four weeks.
India 27-Oct-2023
According to reports, the Kharar sub-division in the Sahibzada Ajit Singh (SAS) Nagar district of Punjab has the highest number of NDPS (Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances) cases, accounting for 41% of drug smuggling cases and 42% of peddler arrests in the district. This information was disclosed by Mohali police during a recent review meeting with Tourism and Cultural Affairs Minister Anmol Gagan Mann.
India 27-Oct-2023
Police on October 27 recovered a drone from the fields of Jajbir Singh in Daoke village in Amritsar district. The drone was a MAVIC 3 Classic model.
India 27-Oct-2023
The Border Security Force (BSF) on October 27 recovered a yellow plastic-wrapped bottle containing 360 grams of heroin from Daoke village in Amritsar district.
Canada 27-Oct-2023
According to sources, Canada is currently experiencing a significant visa processing backlog for Indian applicants due to a reduction in staff in India. Out of the 38,000 visas allocated for Indians, only 20,000 can be processed by the end of 2023. The staff reduction occurred when India requested Canada to withdraw 41 diplomats, resulting in an expected backlog of 17,500 Indian applications in early 2024. Canada aims to return to normal processing by early 2024 by re-establishing its immigration staff in India and the Philippines and adjusting workloads for Visa Application Centres.
India 27-Oct-2023
The Amritsar Rural Police have frozen the movable and immovable properties worth INR 6.92 crore of ten drug peddlers from different villages in the Amritsar district of Punjab. The police seized residential houses worth INR 1.36 crore, INR 1.67 crore, and INR 40.95 lakh, along with a car and a scooter from Raja Singh, who was arrested by the police with 270 gm of heroin and drug money amounting to INR 7.80 lakh in August 2022. They also seized a residential house worth over INR 69 lakh belonging to Rajinder Kumar, who was arrested with 3 kg of heroin in May 2023. Additionally, a house worth over INR 66 lakh, owned by Bikramjit Singh, who was arrested with 14 kg of heroin in July 2018, was frozen. The police also seized a residential house worth INR 41 lakh, which belonged to Malkit Singh, who was arrested with 265 gm of heroin in March 2019. Furthermore, the houses of Heera Singh, Sukhdev Singh, and Sukhjinder Singh were frozen. They were arrested with 8 kg, 1 kg, and 8 kg of heroin in December 2022, October 2022, and February 2013, respectively.