KHALISTAN EXTREMISM MONITOR
A project of the Institute for Conflict Management
A project of the Institute for Conflict Management
United Kingdom 15-Feb-2023
During the last week, the British government highlighted that a small group of pro-Khalistan activists is spreading a false story that Britain is colluding with India to oppress Sikhs. In its counter-terrorism review, stated that though the existing threat to the United Kingdom (UK) is low from the pro-Khalistan movement, it could intensify in the future. Warning about “pro-Khalistan extremism emerging from the UK’s Sikh communities”. Sources also said that a similar story is evolving in Australia where Khalistan groups have been trying to muster support lately.
India 15-Feb-2023
According to reports, 26 villages of Ludhiana district were declared drug-free by the administration as part of the campaign launched against the drug menace by the state Government. A senior government functionary said on February 15, that 16 villages in the Jagraon sub-division, 6 in Raikot and 4 in the Dakha sub-division had been declared ‘drug-free’. While 11 villages under the Sidhwan Bet police station had become free of drugs, 6 ‘drug-free’ villages fall under the jurisdictions of Raikot City, Raikot Sadar and Hanoor police stations. Among others, 4 villages had become ‘drug-free’ under the limits of Dakha, Sudhar and Jodhan police stations, 3 under Jagraon City and 2 such villages fall under the jurisdiction of the Jagraon Sadar police station had been declared ‘drug-free’ by the government.
Canada 15-Feb-2023
Canadian ministers criticized the vandalism of Shri Ram Mandir in the Greater Toronto Area (GTA) of Mississauga that happened on February 14. This was the fourth such incident in eight months duration where pro-Khalistan graffiti was spray-painted the walls of the temple. Meanwhile, Canada’s defence minister Anita Anand on February 15 tweeted on this incident that, “Freedom of religion is a fundamental tenet of our democracy.” Earlier in the day, foreign minister Melanie Joly had also condemned the episode.
India 16-Feb-2023
Police on February 16 booked ‘Waris Punjab De’ head Amritpal Singh among 20 persons on charges of kidnapping, thrashing and snatching, on the complaint lodged by Varinder Singh of the Chamkaur Sahib area in Anjala in Amritsar district. The First Information Report (FIR) was registered against them at the Ajnala police station.
India 16-Feb-2023
According to police, Gangster Lawrence Bishnoi who was brought to Jaipur from Punjab on a production warrant has been sent on seven-day police remand. The court gave police remand for seven days till February 23 for interrogation. Bishnoi is being interrogated in connection with his involvement in a case of firing outside at a club in Jaipur on January 29. Six members of his gang were arrested earlier in connection with the January 29 firing.
India 16-Feb-2023
The special National Investigation Agency (NIA) court in Mohali on February 16 convicted Kulwinder Singh Khanpuria of the banned Babbar Khalsa International (BKI) for waging a war against the country. He was produced before the court through video-conferencing. The NIA had registered a case against Khanpuria in 2019. He was arrested on November 21, 2022, from Indira Gandhi International Airport in New Delhi while he was returning from Bangkok. The NIA had framed charges against Khanpuria for criminal conspiracy and under sections of the Unlawful Activities Prevention Act (UAPA). The court framed charges against Khanpuria under Sections 121, 122, 123 and 120-B of the Indian Penal Code (IPC), Sections 3 and 25 of the Arms Act and Sections 17, 18, 18-B, 38 and 39 of the UAPA.
India 16-Feb-2023
Police arrested two accused, identified as Gurpreet Singh and Amritpal Singh of Patiala, close associates of SK Kharoud gang, and recovered two pistols and ten live cartridges from them at Devigarh Road, Jodian Sadkan in Patiala on February 16. A case has been registered against both under the Arms act at Sanour police station. Also, both the accused have multiple cases registered against them in different police stations.
India 17-Feb-2023
The Union Ministry of Home Affairs (UMHA) on February 17 declared Harwinder Singh Sandhu alias Rinda, currently based in Pakistan and affiliated to Babbar Khalsa International (BKI) as a terrorist and Khalistan Tiger Force (KTF) as terrorist organisation. According to intelligence officials, Rinda, who is believed to be living in Lahore, is associated with the banned group BKI and is said to have played a key role in the 2021 attack on the intelligence headquarters of the Punjab Police in Mohali. Rinda hails from Rattoke village in Tarn Taran district of Punjab, and he was previously arrested in 2008 after a scuffle during a family feud. After getting in touch with criminals during his time in prison, Rinda shifted his base to Nanded in Maharashtra. Following his interactions with criminals while serving time in prison, Rinda relocated to Nanded in Maharashtra. Subsequently, he utilized counterfeit travel documents to enter Pakistan in 2020 and established contact with pro-Khalistan terrorist organizations, who reportedly provided him with security. In August 2022, the National Investigation Agency (NIA) offered a cash reward of INR 10 lakh to anyone with information on Rinda. KTF is a militant outfit that seeks to revive terrorism in the state of Punjab and poses a threat to India's territorial integrity, national security, unity, and sovereignty. The organization promotes various forms of terrorism, including targeted assassinations within Punjab. The recent classification of KTF as a terrorist organization brings the total number of designated terrorist groups to 44 under the Schedule of the Act.
India 17-Feb-2023
Ludhiana police arrested two youngsters, identified as Munish alias Lallu and Aniket Chauhan Talwara, operating on the directions of a notorious criminal Sagar Newton in Ludhiana. Police also recovered six illegal pistols, eight magazines and 12 live cartridges from them. According to reports, these notorious criminals now started using social media platforms from jails to build a network to buy and supply arms.
Australia 17-Feb-2023
According to the media reports, the president and the vice president of Gayatri Mandir in Brisbane, Australia has received threatening calls on February 17 from a man who identified himself as 'Guruawadesh Singh', Claiming that he was calling from Nankana Sahib in Pakistan, and asked the Hindu community to support the 'Khalistan Referendum' and to raise pro-Khalistani slogans if it wanted to observe Maha Shivratri peacefully, which falls on February 18.
India 17-Feb-2023
Police on February 17 arrested a key accused in the RPG (rocket-propelled grenade) attack case, Gurpinder alias Pindu, who have a close tie with Canada-based terrorist Lakhbir Singh alias Landa from Khem Karan in Tarn Taran district. The RPG attack was carried out at Intelligence Headquarters in Mohali on May 9, 2022. According to Director General of Police (DGP) Gaurav Yadav, on April 25, 2022, Charhat Singh, Nishan Singh and Baljinder Rambo had brought consignment of RPG and assault rifle from Tarn Taran to Amritsar, and kept at Pindu’s house near Alpha Mall in Amritsar. The accused had also harboured the shooters, Deepak and another man, at his house on the same night, he added. Police have so far arrested nine accused in this case.
India 17-Feb-2023
Border Security Force (BSF) on February 16 foiled a smuggling bid and recovered approximately 2 kg of heroin wrapped in a white cloth from near Dalla Rajput village in Amritsar District.
India 17-Feb-2023
The Mansa police have booked 50 persons for shouting pro-Khalistan slogans and waving a Khalistani flag in the Mansa city in Mansa district. According to reports, on February 17, the accused held a motorbike and tractor rally from Ralla village to Mansa in support of the demand to free of the "Bandi Singhs". The case was reported at the Mansa Sadar police station under Section 124-A of the Indian Criminal Code (IPC). Nine of the accused have also been identified by the police.
United Kingdom 18-Feb-2023
Khalistani supporters on February 18 raised anti-India and pro-Khalistani slogans outside the Indian High Commission in London in United Kingdom (UK). According to reports, Khalistani supporters not just raised Pro-Khalistani slogans but also chanted anti-India slogans outside the Indian High Commission.
India 18-Feb-2023
Police on February 18, arrested a gangster identified as Rohit Kumar alias Simtu, along with a .32 bore pistol and five live cartridges from an undisclosed place in Punjab. As per sources, he was involved in the Baltana shootout case and also wanted in six criminal cases registered in Punjab and Himachal Pradesh.
India 18-Feb-2023
Police on February 18 arrested gangster Jaggu Bhagwanpuria’s accomplice, identified as Vishal Verma alias Shalu along with nine pistols and 20 cartridges in Rupnagar district of Punjab. Ropar Superintendent of Police (SSP) Vivek Sheel Soni said, Verma was planning something big. Bhagwanpuria’s gang was also involved in smuggling of weapons and drugs in the state on a large scale, as per sources.
India 18-Feb-2023
The Faridkot police arrested two persons, identified as Jasbir Singh and Jashandeep Singh and recovered three illegal weapons from them in Faridkot district. In the primary investigation, it is revealed that accused had snatched a .12 bore gun from a person in Baghapurana area of Moga district.
India 18-Feb-2023
The Border Security Forces (BSF) on February 18 foiled a major narco-terror bid from Pakistan's side and recovered 20 packets of suspected drug heroin (approximately 22 kg) wrapped in yellow tapes on international border (IB) in Gurdaspur district. They also recovered two pistols, of which one is Made in Turkey while the other one is Made in China. Six magazines and 242 rounds were also recovered along with one 12-feet long plastic pipe. According to BSF officers, the gunfight began when suspicious movement of smugglers ahead of fencing in the area near Khasawali village in the Gurdaspur district.
India 18-Feb-2023
External Affairs Minister (EAM) S Jaishankar during his visit to Australia emphasised the need for vigilance against radical activities. In an interview, on temples attack in Canada, Australia and the UK, he added that these nations have to respond appropriately over the issue.
India 19-Feb-2023
On February 19, Waris Punjab De leader Amritpal Singh attended Deep Sidhu's first death anniversary at Budh Singh Wala village in Moga district and talked about his dream of creating Khalistan and stated that neither Indira Gandhi nor Narendra Modi will be able to stop them from doing so. He stated that each and every child in Punjab is raising its voice for Khalistan. He also added that many ancestors have sacrificed their lives to turn Punjab into Khalistan.
India 19-Feb-2023
Barnala Police on February 19 arrested 10 gang members along with six rifles, two pistols, one revolver, 35 live cartridges from Barnala district. According to police, the gang is involved in murder, burglary and snatching incidents, a First Information Report (FIR) has been registered in this case. Further investigations are being conducted by police to check into the linkages of the gang with other gangs operating in the state, police said.
India 19-Feb-2023
On February 19, Border Security Force (BSF) personnel recovered a crash drone with 3 kg of heroin at Zero Line near Ghania-Ke-Bet border outpost in Dera Baba Nanak in Gurdaspur district.
India 19-Feb-2023
The Waris Punjab De president Amritpal Singh gave a call to the 'sangat' to meet at his native village of Jallupur Khera to discuss the future course of action, adding that they would pass a 'gurmata' (resolution in the name of the Guru) against the police action. Also, he has threatened "state-wide action" if the police do not release his two associates and continue to pick up his followers.
India 19-Feb-2023
The Border Security Force (BSF) personnel recovered a drone with around 2.7 heroin from a field near the border fence in Ghaniake village in Gurdaspur district on February 19.
India 19-Feb-2023
Punjab Police on February 19 carried out a special operation, ‘Ops Seal’ aimed at checking of all vehicles entering the border state of Punjab at 10 inter-state borders. Police arrested three proclaimed offenders and recovered 70 kg poppy husk, 1 kg charas, 110 grams heroin and INR 1 lakh drug money during the operation. Additional Director General of Police (ADGP) Law and Order Arpit Shukla said that the objective of this operation was to keep check on illegal drug trafficking and illicit liquor smuggling, besides, movement of gangsters and anti-social elements.
India 19-Feb-2023
As per sources, the probe by the National Investigation Agency (NIA) revealed that Pakistan-based Rinda had taught the shooter who has been identified as Deepak Ranga, to use a rocket-propelled grenade (RPG) over two video-call sessions before the RPG attack on the Punjab Police intelligence headquarters in Mohali in 2022. The NIA has also found that Rinda managed to radicalise Deepak with stories of how the police had allegedly tortured the family members of one of Rinda's associates, the sources said. According to sources, Deepak was also allegedly involved in the murder of builder Sanjay Biyani in Maharashtra's Nanded in April 2022 on Rinda's orders.
India 20-Feb-2023
On February 20, the Counter Intelligence Agency (CIA) and Border Security Force (BSF) troops conducted a search and recovered a drone identified as DJI Matrice 300 RTK (made in China) from the outskirts of New Hasta Kalan village in Fazilka district.
Canada 20-Feb-2023
Khalistan supporters on February 20 gathered outside the consulate in Vancouver, Canada, and raised Khalistan flags, demanding the release of Sikhs imprisoned in India.
India 20-Feb-2023
The Punjab Police's state special operations cell (SSOC) has booked nine people, including Pakistan-based International Sikh Youth Federation (ISYF) chief Lakhbir Singh Rode, allegedly for smuggling arms, ammunition, drugs, and explosives across the Punjab border. According to sources, the Pakistan's intelligence agency ISI and the ISYF has been working together through his associates imprisoned in Punjab.
India 20-Feb-2023
On February 20, Balwant Singh Rajoana, a convict in the assassination of former Punjab chief minister Beant Singh, distanced himself from the Qaumi Insaaf Morcha, which is leading the protests for the release of Sikh prisoners. Rajoana, asserting to be an Akali, stated that he has nothing to do with the morcha that has been protesting at the Chandigarh-Mohali border for more than a month.
India 20-Feb-2023
Amritpal Singh, who is the head of ‘Waris Punjab De’ has given a life threatening warning to Union Home Minister Amit Shah on February 20. In his recent address in Budhsingh Wala village of Moga District, Singh said, "We will do the same to Amit Shah as happened to Indira Gandhi." He came to the village to attend the death anniversary program of Punjabi singer Deep Sidhu. He is also facing arrest along with five of his aides on the charges of several crimes, including kidnapping, theft, rioting, causing injury, and unlawful assembly.
India 21-Feb-2023
The National Investigation Agency (NIA) on February 21 conducted simultaneous searches at 76 locations in eight states to dismantle the nexus between terrorists, gangsters and drug smugglers and traffickers based in India and abroad. About INR 1.5 crore cash, 11 pistols and rifles with ammunition and incriminating material, including documents, hard drives and mobile phones, were recovered by NIA during search. As per the sources, preliminary investigations have revealed that the gangs were carrying out targeted killings and were also raising funds to carry out such criminal activities through hawala network and smuggling of drugs and weapons.
India 21-Feb-2023
Punjab police on February 21 conducted a cordon and search operation (CASO) across the state aimed to identified safe haven of criminals and anti-social elements in the state. The Additional Director General of Police (ADGP) said that police teams cordoned off over 324 hotspots and 5,781 persons were frisked of which 205 persons have been arrested. The police have also registered 187 first information reports (FIRs) and arrested nine proclaimed offenders. Police teams also recovered 2.8 kg heroin and 2.20 lakh drug money.
India 21-Feb-2023
Punjab Police on February 21 conducted a cordon and search operation (CASO) at several locations across the state and arrested 205 persons and recovered 2.8 kg of heroin and INR 2.20 lakh drug money while registering 187 cases in this connection. According to sources, the operation was conducted simultaneously in all 28 police districts of the state and targeted the ‘notorious/infamous mohallas/villages’ where drugs are prevalent or certain areas which have become shelter/safe haven for criminals and anti-social elements. Police searched 324 hotspots and questioned 5,781 people during the operation.
India 21-Feb-2023
The National Investigation Agency (NIA) on February 21 conducted raids on gangsters, working in tandem with terrorist groups and drug smugglers based in foreign countries such as Pakistan and Canada, at 76 locations in Punjab, Haryana, and six other states and seized a large cache of arms and ammunition and cash amounting to Rs 2.3 crores. It was the fifth raid by the NIA against the nexus. In Punjab, the raids were conducted in Bathinda, Muktsar, Moga, Fazilka, Ludhiana, Mohali, Ferozepur, Tarn Taran, Faridkot, Sangrur and Jalandhar districts. In Haryana, the raids covered Gurugram, Yamunanagar, Rohtak, Mahendragarh, Sirsa and Jhajjar districts. According to reports, the NIA also raided places linked to Canada-based Arshdeep Singh Dalla alias Arsh Dalla who was declared a terrorist by the Union Ministry of Homa Affairs (UMHA) on January 9. Dalla’s native house, which situated in Dalla village in Moga district, has been closed for a long time as his family had already migrated from India. Earlier, the NIA had raided the dens of gangster Lawrence Bishnoi at Duttaranwali village in Fazilka district and gangster Goldy Brar at Muktsar. A senior Punjab Police officer said the NIA had not shared the details of its raids.
India 21-Feb-2023
Police February 21 conducted a cordon and search operation across Jalandhar district and recovered 50 intoxicating capsules, five injections, 18 gm heroin in two different cases, a total of 4-kg poppy husk and 12 bottles of liquor. Police team raided the houses of drug peddlers and also questioned suspicious persons.
India 21-Feb-2023
The National Investigation Agency's (NIA) continued crackdown on the gangster-terror funding case and on February 21 conducted a raid at the house of Akali leader Lakhvir Singh from Punjab and seized several weapons from him. However, Singh said that he and his kin have licensed weapons that the central agency took for verification. "The arms licences are renewed up to 2025. The NIA is the country's big agency. Whether they call us in day or night for the investigation, we will cooperate," he said.
Australia 21-Feb-2023
According to media reports, on the night of February 21, the Consulate of India in Brisbane, Australia, was attacked by Khalistani supporters who raised the Khalistan flag at the office in Taringa suburb. On February 22, Archana Singh, the Honorary Consul of India in Brisbane, arrived and noticed a Khalistan flag tied to the office. Sources said that Singh immediately informed Queensland Police, who confiscated the flag and ensured that the Indian Consul was not in immediate danger.
India 22-Feb-2023
Three gangsters, identified as Teja Mehandpuria and two of his associates were shot dead in an encounter with Anti- Gang Task Force (AGTF) near the Bassi Pathana bus stand in Fatehgarh Sahib district on February 22. Two police personnel, Sub-Inspector (SI) Gurpreet Singh and constable Sukhraj, were injured in the gunfight. Police also recovered six pistols from the gangsters. Teja, who is facing around 35 cases including murder and robbery, and his accomplices were allegedly involved in the January 8 killing of constable Kuldeep Singh Bajwa in Phillaur. The policeman was part of a team chasing gangsters who had robbed a car at gunpoint in Kangjagir village. According to sources, AGTF’s operation was code-named “Fast-track” after ‘Teja’ (fast) to arrest him.
India 23-Feb-2023
Supporters of pro-Khalistan idealogue and the 'Chief' of Waris Punjab De, Amritpal Singh, armed with swords, guns, and sharp weapons on February 23 clashed with roughly 600 Punjab Police officers, injuring several persons. According to sources, two senior policemen were injured, and a police vehicle was damaged. The protest occurred in response to the arrest of Lovepreet Singh aka Toofan who was allegedly accused in a kidnapping and assault case. Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) of Amritsar, Satinder Singh, stated that Lovepreet would shortly release on February 24, after the completion of formalities "as per the evidence submitted before the Punjab Police" according to media reports.
India 23-Feb-2023
On February 23, Punjab Director General of Police (DGP) Gaurav Yadav assured Himachal Pradesh DGP Sanjay Kundu of his full support in combating organised inter-state crime, notably the smuggling of drugs and illicit liquor across the Punjab-Himachal Pradesh border. He also mentioned that in order to stop the smuggling of illegal narcotics and liquor, it was decided to strengthen the closed-circuit television (CCTV) camera network at the entry and exit points across the border.
India 23-Feb-2023
An associate of the gangster Tajinder Singh alias Teja, identified as Harinder Singh alias Soni, was arrested by the Anti-Gangster Task Force (AGTF) at Bassi Pathana of Fatehgarh Sahib district on February 23. Six cartridges and a foreign-made pistol were recovered from him. He was arrested after a brief chase and shootout, said AGTF.
India 23-Feb-2023
During the recent nationwide raids conducted by National Investigation Agency (NIA) at 76 locations across eight states, it arrested six suspects, including a close associate of designated terrorist Arshdeep Singh alias Arsh Dalla, identified as Lucky Khokhar alias Denis, said NIA on February 23. According to the central counter-terrorism law enforcement agency, the other five accused who were arrested in the raid, identified as, Lakhvir Singh, Harpreet, Dalip Bishnoi, Surinder alias Chiku Chaudhary and Hari Om alias Titul. So far, NIA has revealed that they have been involved in smuggling arms, ammunition, explosives etc. across international and inter-state borders in India for several Khalistani terror outfits, including the Khalistan Liberation Force (KLF), Babbar Khalsa International (BKI) and International Sikh Youth Federation (ISYF).
India 23-Feb-2023
The National Investigation Agency (NIA) filed an application before the Special Judge, NIA court at Chandigarh, for issuing of proclamation proceedings against Jaswinder Singh Multani, one of the key accused of planting a bomb near the Model Jail in April 2022. In regard to the application, the NIA court has fixed the next date of hearing in the case for March 2, 2023.
India 23-Feb-2023
Amritpal Singh on February 22 released a video claiming that his statements regarding Union Home Minister Amit Shah were twisted and portrayed in the wrong sense. Reportedly, a few days back Amritpal Singh released a video stating Shah will face the same fate as Indira Gandhi if he tries to stop Punjab from turning into Khalistan. On February 21, he did a press conference and said that “I did not threaten the Home Minister in any way. The agencies want to kill me. And my words were twisted and misconstrued by people.” Earlier, during Deep Sidhu’s anniversary, he stated that neither Indira nor Shah or Modi can stop from turning Punjab into Khalistan.
Pakistan 24-Feb-2023
The Pakistani media on February 24 highlighted how supporters of pro-Khalistan Sikh leader Amritpal Singh 'staged a large demonstration in Amritsar on February 23 and put the Indian Punjab Police on the back foot'. Also, it mentioned, "the demand for Khalistan by Sikhs in Indian Punjab is gathering pace."
India 24-Feb-2023
On February 24, in an interview with India Today, Amritpal Singh, who is the head of 'Waris Punjab De', said, "There is no revival but survival. Khalistan is not a taboo and the demand is being made to end suffering. I won’t even call myself a preacher." He said, “Once we will make Khalistan here, we will go to Lahore". He had previously threatened the police to face serious consequences, if the case against his aide was not closed. Based on a complaint filed by Varinder Singh, Amritpal Singh and his five aides were charged with kidnapping, theft, rioting, and other offenses.
India 24-Feb-2023
The Senior Superintendent of Punjab Police (SSP) Harpal Singh Randhawa stated that, "What happened on February 23 should not have happened. Because Amritpal (Singh) had brought Guru Granth Sahib with him, the Punjab Police did not retaliate. Things would have gone wrong if we had retaliated. We respected Guru Granth Sahib”. The SSP also said that Amritpal had previously stated that he would only hold peaceful dharnas. "But he lied to us. His supporters attacked the Punjab Police, but we did nothing since Guru Granth Sahib was in the midst."
India 24-Feb-2023
'Waris Punjab De' leader Amritpal Singh stated on February 24 that the goal of Khalistan should not be viewed as evil or taboo. The statement comes after massive protest over his close aide Toofan Singh's arrest. Amritpal Singh openly stated that it was his right to demand the separation of the Sikh homeland from India. "It should be seen from an intellectual point of view as to what could be its geopolitical benefits. It's an ideology and ideology never dies. We are not asking for it from Delhi," Meanwhile, several Sikh leaders have criticized the separatist leader for his divisive agenda and attempts to incite animosity between the Sikh and Hindu communities in Punjab, which have coexisted peacefully for generations.
India 24-Feb-2023
Two drug peddlers identified as Raj Singh Raju and Amandeep Singh, were arrested along with 75,500 intoxicating tablets on NH 62 in Abohar, Fazilka district on February 24.
India 25-Feb-2023
Amritpal Singh on February 25 said that the Anjala violent incident and subsequent release of Lovepreet Singh will "change the course of the future". He further said that the Punjab Director General of Police (DGP) could not claim ignorance of the situation. It wasn't that he was unaware of the situation. He also stated that Punjab Police acted hastily based on incorrect intelligence reports.The incident at Ajnala police station in Amritsar on February 23 could have been prevented if police had been more vigilant and his aide Lovepreet Singh Toofan had not been arrested, he said.
India 25-Feb-2023
Punjab Chief Minister (CM) Bhagwant Singh on February 25 condemned supporters of Khalistan sympathiser and Waris Punjab De chief Amritpal Singh's aide, Lovepreet, aka Toofan Singh, for using the Sikh holy book as a "shield" during their recent protest at Ajnala police station. CM tweeted in Punjabi, “Those who take the Guru Granth Sahib to police stations as a shield cannot be called ‘waris (the heirs)’ of Punjab and Punjabiyat in any way,".
India 25-Feb-2023
Sukhbir Singh Badal, the president of the Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD), criticized Amritpal and his supporters for allegedly committing sacrilege at Ajnala. He pointed out, "This is shocking, unbelievable and unforgivable. Never in Sikh history has anyone ever shown such brazen disrespect to the Guru Granth Sahib Ji as was done at Ajnala". Also, Giani Harpreet Singh, the jathedar of the Akal Takht, constituted a subcommittee on February 25 to examine the dos and don'ts of where the Sikh holy book can be carried in order to preserve its status and honour. According to Sarbat Khalsa's Dhian Singh Mand, the Guru Granth Sahib should not have been taken for personal purposes.
India 25-Feb-2023
Sukhbir Singh Badal, the president of the Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD), criticized Amritpal and his supporters for allegedly committing sacrilege at Ajnala. He pointed out, "This is shocking, unbelievable and unforgivable. Never in Sikh history has anyone ever shown such brazen disrespect to the Guru Granth Sahib Ji as was done at Ajnala". Also, Giani Harpreet Singh, the jathedar of the Akal Takht, constituted a subcommittee on February 25 to examine the dos and don'ts of where the Sikh holy book can be carried in order to preserve its status and honour. According to Sarbat Khalsa's Dhian Singh Mand, the Guru Granth Sahib should not have been taken for personal purposes.
India 25-Feb-2023
Amritpal Singh, while addressing the media in Ajnala on February 25 claimed that the Ajnala incident was not violent. He said, "You are counting sloganeering and hoisting the flags (Khalistani), as violence... you have not seen the real violence till now, the real violence is yet to be seen," He also stated that, violence was 'sacred'. "Suppressed people choose violence. People say violence is very bad, but violence is very sacred. Guru Gobind Singh Ji said, when you have no choice, then holding a sword is right," he said.
India 26-Feb-2023
Punjab's former Chief Minister (CM) Captain Amarinder Singh on February 26 criticized Chief Minister (CM) Bhagwant Mann for failing to keep Punjab’s law and order. He said that the Government of India "would have to step in" if the Mann government is unable to keep the peace.
India 26-Feb-2023
According to official sources, the Punjab Police was asked by the Union Ministry of Home Affairs (UMHA) to submit a comprehensive report on the Ajnala event. The Ministry is in contact with security agencies over the activities of Amritpal Singh, the leader of "Waris Punjab De," who has returned from Dubai. A thorough report on the Ajnala incidents in Punjab over the past two to three days has been prepared by the Intelligence Bureau (IB). According to sources, it was communicated to the UMHA's top officials.
India 26-Feb-2023
The Border Security Force (BSF) shot down a drone, identified as Chinese made DJI Matrice, along the Indian territory near Shahjada village of Amritsar district on February 26.
India 26-Feb-2023
The police arrested two persons, identified as Karan and Preet Kamal for allegedly possessing heroin and recovered 15 gm and 20 gm of heroin from each of them in Amritsar in Amritsar district.
India 26-Feb-2023
The Central government on February 26 suspended the Instagram profile of the Waris Punjab De head, Khalistani sympathizer Amritpal Singh. Notably, Amritpal’s account was a verified account with Blue Tick and used for running his pro-Khalistani agenda.
India 26-Feb-2023
Punjab Chief Minister (CM) Bhagwant Mann stated on February 26 that supporters of Khalistan were receiving funds from Pakistan and other countries. CM, who was in Gujarat, stated that the Punjab Police were capable of handling the issue and only a handful of persons were supporting the pro-Khalistan movement in Punjab.
India 26-Feb-2023
Two gangsters, who were arrested in connection with Sidhu Moosewala murder case, identified as Mandeep Singh alias Toofan and Mohan Singh alias Manmohan were killed in a clash in Goindwal jail in Tarn Taran district on February 26. Another jail inmate identified as Keshav was critically injured in the clash. Toofan was arrested by the Anti-Gangster Task Force (AGTF) in September 2022. He was also wanted in the killing of another notorious gangster Ranbir Singh alias Rana Kandowalia in a hospital in Amritsar in August 2021.
India 27-Feb-2023
On February 27, the Border Security Force (BSF) recovered five packets of heroin, weighing 2.6kg, that had been smuggled from Pakistan, near Mehndipur village in the Bhikhiwind subdistrict of Tarn Taran district.
India 27-Feb-2023
According to sources, intelligence agencies found that pro-Khalistan entities (PKEs) held several gatherings over the previous two years to campaign for Khalistan among young people in Punjab and other parts of the country. Amritpal Singh, a Khalistani separatist, is alleged to have spoken with several pro-Khalistan entities (PKEs) while residing in Dubai before moving back to India last year. According to sources, the National Investigation Agency (NIA) is looking into Khalistani entities with ties to Dubai in various terror finance cases. But intel agencies have not yet been able to gather any information on Amritpal.
India 27-Feb-2023
Mohkam Singh, who was a close associate of Khalistani leader Bhindranwale, on February 27 said that carrying the Guru Granth Sahib to the Anjala protest site was inappropriate and that Sikhs had "condemned" Amritpal for doing so. He also said that "Amritpal is yet to prove his credentials".
India 27-Feb-2023
The chief of Sikhs For Justice (SFJ), Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, in a video posted on social media on February 27 threatened to “storm and target” New Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International (IGI) airport with Khalistan flags during the upcoming G20 Foreign Ministers Summit in New Delhi. The video also shows slogans written "Punjab is Not India" and "Khalistan Zindabad" by the outlawed pro-Khalistan group at the Sub Divisional Magistrate (SDM) Office Complex of Rode village in Moga district of Punjab. Pannun in the video further said that the graffiti is aimed to communicate to the foreign ministers of G20 countries that “Punjab is not a part of India”. “This message is for the G20 foreign ministers. Punjab is not India. SFJ will storm and target the New Delhi Airport with Khalistan flags,” he said.
India 27-Feb-2023
On February 27, seven prison inmates were booked after two jailed gangsters were killed in a gang fight at Goindwal Sahib Central Jail in Tarn Taran district. During the clash, they used iron strips in which another accused was injured, who was also arrested in connection with the Sidhu Moosewala murder case. These accused have been charged under sections 302 (murder) and 307 (attempt to murder) of the Indian Penal Code (IPC).
India 27-Feb-2023
According to reports, the National Investigation Agency (NIA) investigation has revealed that the gangsters are using Punjabi singers as a means of terrorism financing. Sources indicate, that gangsters imprisoned in Canada, Punjab, and even inside prisons are allegedly threatening to release exclusive songs on YouTube channels run by their associates so as to use the money from India to buy illegal weapons from other countries for targeted killings. This has been disclosed in the draft charge sheet of NIA.
India 28-Feb-2023
According to reports, in the wake of Anjala violence, Punjab police have stepped up their efforts by training their personnel in Gatka, a form of Sikh martial art. Keeping in mind the situation of law and order in the state, the Punjab police began training about two weeks ago.
India 28-Feb-2023
On February 28, Waris Punjab De head Amritpal Singh visited to honour the death anniversaries of two militants. One was observed at Manochahal village in Tarn Taran district for Bhindranwala Tiger Force (BTF) chief Gurbachan Singh Manochahal, while another was observed in Chabba village in Amritsar district for Babbar Khalsa International (BKI) Sukhdev Singh Chabba. During both gatherings, Amritpal Singh was offered 'siropas' (robe of honour) by the organizers. When addressing the public, Amritpal defended his recent act of carrying the Guru Granth Sahib to Ajnala. "Only Guru Granth Sahib can guide us from darkness to light," he said.
India 28-Feb-2023
Punjab government on February 28 transferred 18 police personnel, including the Amritsar Commissioner of Police, with immediate effect. According to sources, sixteen of the 18 police personnel are Indian Police Service (IPS) officers and two are Punjab Police Service officers who got the transfer. They were transferred days after the Ajnala police station incident.
India 01-Mar-2023
The pro-Khalistani propagator and self-proclaimed leader of ‘Waris Punjab De’ Amritpal Singh on March 1 stated that he will go before the Akal Takht over the issue of carrying the saroop (copy) of Guru Granth Sahib to Ajnala Police Station during the protest on February 23. He also said that there were historical examples and references to back up his claim that their actions at Ajnala as it did not violate the maryada. “If Akal Takht Sahib Jathedar summons us and asks us to clarify the issue, we will surely appear there. We will have no hesitation in doing so. We will go there to present our side,” he said.
India 01-Mar-2023
The National Investigation Agency (NIA) on March 1 filed a supplementary chargesheet against three operatives of the banned Babbar Khalsa International (BKI) in a case of seizure of weapons, ammunition, and improvised explosive devices (IEDs) in Haryana in 2022. According to an NIA spokesperson, charges were brought against the accused Akash alias Akashdeep, Sukhbir Singh alias Jashan, and Jarmalpreet before a special court in Panchkula under sections of the Indian Penal Code (IPC), the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, the Arms Act, and the Explosives Substances Act.
India 01-Mar-2023
According to sources, the Indian army and intelligence agencies conducted tests on recently installed indigenous anti-drone spoofers and jammer systems in Jammu and Punjab bordering areas of Pakistan and it has produced satisfactory results against weapons, explosives, and drug-carrying drones launched by Pakistan terror groups. The army purchased 30 jammer and spoofer devices, each for the Jammu and Punjab sectors, and placed them along the western border for testing. The devices have been working efficiently for more than three months and stopped drones from crossing into Indian border.
India 01-Mar-2023
Police arrested two Jalandhar-based drug smugglers along with 100 kg of poppy husk and 600g of heroin at a checkpoint in Sujanpur, close to Pathankot in Pathankot district on February 28. They were identified as Taranjit Singh and Kishan Lal, who smuggle drugs to Punjab from J&K. During this search operation, a Station House Officer (SHO) got injured.
Pakistan 01-Mar-2023
According to a Pakistan government notification released on March 1, Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has appointed Sardar Ramesh Singh Arora as the Ambassador-at-Large for Kartarpur Corridor as part of efforts to draw Sikh pilgrims from all over the world.
India 01-Mar-2023
Former diplomat KC Singh on February 28 said that the self-proclaimed Khalistani separatist Amritpal Singh should surrender his passport since he doesn't consider himself as an Indian citizen. KC Singh, chief of the Sunehra Punjab Party, also said that Amritpal should get his identification from United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) as a stateless person because “Khalistan exists only in his head.”
India 01-Mar-2023
The foreign secretary of the United Kingdom (UK), James Cleverly on March 1 assured that violent attacks on Indian residents will be closely monitored by UK police and security services, and that appropriate measures will be taken to stop such illegal activity. While addressing the G-20 summit in New Delhi, Cleverly said that "We take the security of people very seriously. Our police and security services always pay close regard to such activities and if it is an illegal activity, we act upon it."
India 02-Mar-2023
Notorious gangster Lawrence Bishnoi was sent to judicial custody by a local court after the completion of his remand period on March 2. Bishnoi's attorney Deepak Chouhan said that the gangster was produced before the court through a video conference.
India 02-Mar-2023
‘Waris Punjab De’ head Amritpal Singh, in an interview on March 2, said that, "(Our) Ultimate goal is Khalistan. Khalistan is our destination, the struggle for it is our path ahead. Khalistan is the ultimate solution to every problem we have right now.” Speaking out against his allegation of being labeled an ‘ISI agent, he said, "The propaganda to brand anyone who discusses the Panth or Punjab as an Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) agent is not new". “Someone who recognizes the issue and attempts to solve it is subjected to this type of blame game when others who should be repairing the societal system fail to do so. I am Sikhi's servant”, he stated.
India 02-Mar-2023
The police in Delhi and Punjab were warned by intelligence agencies that pro-Khalistan elements may attempt to disturb communal harmony by attacking Amritpal Singh and would try to inflame sentiments in the aftermath. The agencies have also alerted about the terrorist outfit, Sikhs for Justice (SFJ), threatening to storm the IGI Airport building in Delhi with Khalistani flags and unfurl one on top ahead of the G20 summit. Also, intelligence agencies have asked that the police to keep a close check on the funds that the Waris Punjab De chief Amritpal is receiving. Security agencies also suspect that Amritpal Singh is receiving financing aid from Pakistan's Inter-Service Intelligence (ISI) to be promoted as Bhindranwale 2.0 on social media.
India 02-Mar-2023
Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) president Sukhbir Singh Badal on March 2 criticized the central government for "taking a U-turn" on Balwant Singh Rajoana's release in the Supreme Court. He also stated that this had hurt the Sikh community's sentiments. He also stated that it was shocking that the central government had turned down its commitment to release nine Sikh prisoners on the 550th birth anniversary celebrations of Guru Nanak in 2019.
India 02-Mar-2023
Police searched some houses of suspected drug peddlers and addicts in Panjpir Colony, Jammu Basti, Dharam Nagari and Seetogunno Road in Abohar in Fazilka district on March 2. However, most of the suspects were not available in their houses during the search. According to reports, Abohar has emerged as a gateway for drug smuggling from the neighbouring state of Rajasthan. Many truck drivers have also been arrested while carrying drugs in the past. The Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP), Avneet Kaur Sidhu, who conducted the search, said, “The aim is to eliminate drug trafficking and protect the people.”
India 02-Mar-2023
Faridkot police on March 2 arrested five alleged drug dealers in Surghuri village of Faridkot district. According to an official, three of the five peddlers were arrested under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act, while the other two were under investigation.
India 02-Mar-2023
According to reports, senior police officials from northern states and Union Territories, on March 2, decided to create a special working group so that local law enforcement officials could frequently exchange information and coordinate their efforts to combat the drug problem. In a meeting organized by the Chandigarh Police on March 2, the officials held a thorough discussion on the drug problem and its sources, the substances, the routes, etc., and strategies to combat it.
India 03-Mar-2023
‘Waris Punjab De’ chief Amritpal Singh visited Akal Takht officiating Jathedar Giani Harpreet Singh on March 3 at the Takht secretariat in Amritsar. The meeting comes against the backdrop of Amritpal was criticized for carrying a "saroop" of the Guru Granth Sahib during the protest at the Ajnala police station on February 23. He said that this was not a prearranged meeting with the Jathedar and that he had come to do obeisance at the Golden Temple. He, however, disproved the speculations that the meeting was about carrying the Guru Granth Sahib to the protest sites.
India 03-Mar-2023
The Fatehgarh Sahib District Police conducted a cordon and search operation on March 3 to nab Sikhs For Justice (SFJ) supporters in the Jassran village of the Fatehgarh Sahib District. The homes of two former SFJ sympathizers were raided by the police, but nothing incriminating was found. Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP) Jangeet Singh, said that the Punjab Police initiated a cordon and search operation campaign, to nab anti-nationals, drug dealers, gangsters, and criminals from the district.
India 03-Mar-2023
The police on March 3 arrested a man with an illegal pistol and six live cartridges from Barkandi Road in Muktsar district. The suspect was identified as Sukhpal Singh alias Sukha and a case has been registered against him under the Indian Arms Act.
India 03-Mar-2023
Police on March 3 arrested one person, identified as Sonu Singh and recovered 110-gm heroin from him on the mega highway in Abohar in Fazilka district.
India 03-Mar-2023
According to police sources, the investigation into the alleged kidnapping and assault complaint filed on February 16 against Waris Punjab De head Amritpal Singh and six other people is almost completed. A senior police officer said that the higher authorities would soon get a report on this case.
India 03-Mar-2023
In order to combat the drug problem in the state, an NGO (Non-governmental organization) led by a retired Indian Police Service (IPS) officer has recommended the Punjab government prescribe opium or poppy husk to drug addicts in a controlled manner. The recommendation stated that if poppy husks are sold legally, the state government will spend less on drugs for drug addicts and will earn revenue.
India 04-Mar-2023
Police arrested one person, identified as Sikander Singh and seized 15-gm heroin from him in Abohar in Fazilka district on March 4.
Australia 04-Mar-2023
According to sources, the wall of Shree Laxmi Narayan Temple in Brisbane, Australia was vandalized by unknown pro-Khalistan supporters on March 4. This was the fourth such incident of vandalism against Hindu temples in two months in Australia. Sarah Gates, who is the Director of Hindu Human Rights said, "This latest hate crime is a pattern of Sikhs For Justice (SFJ) globally, clearly attempting to terrorise Australian Hindus. Coupled with a barrage of propaganda, illegal signs, and cyberbullying, the organisation intends to present all-pervasive threats, fear, and intimidation."
India 04-Mar-2023
A Khalistan flag was found atop a bridge and some pro-Khalistan slogans were inscribed under the bridge, at the Shambhu toll plaza in Ambala district of Haryana on March 4. Later, Police removed the flag and washed away the Khalistan slogans. A case has been filed in this regard against an unidentified person.
India 04-Mar-2023
Punjab police on March 1 arrested one person, identified as Tejvir Singh who was another shooter in the murder of electrician Paramjit Singh who was shot dead on January 4, from Bardeke village in Jagraon in Ludhiana district. Tejvir Singh was presented in the court on March 4 and sent to four days police remand. Khalistan Tiger Force (KTF) terrorist Arshdeep Singh Gill alias Arsh Dalla took responsibility for the killing of the electrician in a purported Facebook post.
India 04-Mar-2023
On March 4, the Phagwara Police arrested a drug peddler, identified as Sunil Kumar along with 10 gm of heroin at a checkpoint near Dana Mandi, Phagwar in Kapurthala district.
India 04-Mar-2023
Police on March 4 arrested two persons, identified as Vijay Kumar and Suraj Singh, and recovered two country-made pistols from them in Patiala in Patiala district. They were part of a gang that supplies illegal weapons to criminals or gangsters in Punjab from other states.
United States 04-Mar-2023
According to media reports, A 60-year-old Indian-origin Sikh man, identified as Rajvir Raj Singh Gill, a former Bakersfield City Council candidate, was arrested on March 4 in the United States (US) for allegedly attempting to hire people to shoot multiple people and burn down the property of Gurdwara Shaheed Baba Deep Singh Ji Khalsa Darbart in California, US.
India 05-Mar-2023
The Anti-Terrorist Front of India (ATFI) on March 5 held a protest and burned pro-Khalistani leader Amritpal Singh's effigy at the Devi Nagar toll plaza on the Shambhu Border of Punjab and Haryana in Ambala. Viresh Shandilya, the national president of the ATFI raised a slogan against Amritpal Singh as a "terrorist" and an "anti-national" who is destroying Punjab's environment.
India 05-Mar-2023
Delhi Police on March 5 arrested a member of the Lawrence Bishnoi gang after an exchange of fire near Qutub Minar metro station, in New Delhi. Police said the accused gang member was identified as Neeraj alias Katiya (30), and they also recovered a semi-automatic pistol and two live cartridges, and four empty cartridges from him. According to police sources, Neeraj was involved in over 25 criminal cases, including murder, attempted murder, extortion, robbery, kidnapping, injury, assault, threatening, and theft in Delhi, Haryana, and Rajasthan.