KHALISTAN EXTREMISM MONITOR
A project of the Institute for Conflict Management
A project of the Institute for Conflict Management
India 25-Apr-2023
According to Punjab Police’s dossier, the arrested Waris Punjab De (WPD) chief Amritpal Singh attempted to wage war against the state for Khalistan, even warned Union Home Minister Amit Shah against putting any obstacle to his goal of creating a separate Sikh nation, and gave provocative speeches that promoted enmity among people of different faiths and languages.
India 25-Apr-2023
Two days after arresting pro-Khalistan activist Amritpal from outside a gurudwara in Moga, the Punjab Police on April 25 conducted a special check at gurdwaras, temples and churches to review the security arrangements and make sure that CCTV cameras were installed and working. The review was conducted across all 28 police districts in the state, as per the directive of Director General of Police (DGP) Gaurav Yadav.
India 25-Apr-2023
Parkash Singh Badal, the patron of Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) and former Chief Minister of Punjab, died at the age of 95 at Fortis Hospital in Mohali on April 25.
India 25-Apr-2023
The Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC) expressed deep condolences on the passing away of Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) chief patron and former five-time Chief Minister of Punjab, Parkash Singh Badal.
United Kingdom 25-Apr-2023
In an open letter addressed to United Kingdom (UK) Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, 230 Sikh organizations based in the UK have voiced their concerns, as stated by a spokesperson for the Sikh Federation (UK). The organizations have expressed worry over Sunak's recent actions and described them as troubling, given what they perceive as a trend of suspicion towards the British Sikh community by the UK government, allegedly under pressure from the Indian government.
India 25-Apr-2023
Police arrested one person, identified as Sokha along with 1 kg of heroin in his possession near Mahilpur in Hoshiarpur district on April 25.
India 25-Apr-2023
Police arrested a woman, identified as Kulwinder Kaur, and recovered 5 grams of heroin from her at a checkpoint in Phagwara in Kapurthala district on April 25.
India 25-Apr-2023
Police arrested two drug peddlers along with 20 grams of heroin in Phagwara in Kapurthala district on April 25.
India 25-Apr-2023
The Gujarat Anti-Terrorist Squad (ATS) has got the custody of jailed gangster Lawrence Bishnoi in connection with a case of cross-border smuggling of drugs, an official said on April 25.
India 26-Apr-2023
According to a source, the Indian intelligence agencies, along with Dubai police assistance, have tracked down Jasmeet Singh Hakimzada, a suspected drug smuggler based in Dubai who is accused of funding the banned Khalistan Liberation Force's (KLF) operations in Punjab. The National Investigation Agency (NIA) had filed a chargesheet against Hakimzada and 11 other individuals two years ago.
United Kingdom 26-Apr-2023
Former UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson commissioned an independent report known as the Bloom Review, which has brought attention to a "small, extremely vocal, and aggressive minority of British Sikhs who can be described as pro-Khalistan extremists." The report analyzes the government's engagement with faith groups in England and calls for a more nuanced understanding of "subversive and sectarian activity" within the Sikh community. The report cautions against certain pro-Khalistan Sikh groups that seek to amplify their influence by lobbying political bodies under the guise of human rights activism, thereby presenting a false image of legitimacy. Additionally, it highlights the use of various aliases by some groups to "subvert the British political order," a tactic historically employed by white supremacist and Islamist terrorist groups. According to the report, the subversive, sectarian, and discriminatory activities of these groups are not representative of the majority of British Sikh communities. However, it recognizes that such activities have negatively impacted these communities, underscoring the need for the government to take measures to address and define such harmful extremism.
India 27-Apr-2023
The Mohali-based special CBI-cum-NIA court issued a proclamation notice for two absconding terrorists, Arshdeep Singh alias Arsh Dalla and Hardeep Singh Nijjar, who are believed to be operating from Canada. The court has directed the accused to appear before it by May 18, and failing to do so will result in proclaimed offender proceedings against them. The National Investigation Agency (NIA) had booked them under different sections of the Unlawful Activities Prevention Act (UAPA) on October 8, 2021.
India 27-Apr-2023
The Border Security Force (BSF) on April 27 shot down a drone and seized two packets of narcotics including heroin weighing 2 kg and 170 gm of opium from near the International Border (IB) in Dhanoe Kalan village in Amritsar district.
India 27-Apr-2023
The Counter Intelligence sub unit on April 27 arrested three youths, identified as Lavish, Jitender Kala and Kulwinder Kindu along with three pistols, two magazines and live cartridges on the Abohar-Malout road in Abohar in Fazilka district.
India 27-Apr-2023
The family members of the imprisoned youths in Dibrugarh jail, Assam were granted a special appointment arranged by the Dibrugarh jail authorities and Amritsar DC Harpreet Singh Sudan, to meet with their loved ones.
India 27-Apr-2023
In response to an intelligence alert from the banned terror outfit, Sikhs For Justice (SFJ), regarding a rail roko protest call, security has been strengthened at the Ludhiana railway station. The Government Railway Police (GRP) has added 41 extra police personnel to increase patrolling and guard vital points. According to the police, SFJ chief Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, has called for the protest on April 29 to support Amritpal Singh of Waris Punjab De (WPD), who is presently detained in Dibrugarh jail in Assam under the National Security Act (NSA).
India 27-Apr-2023
An individual, identified as Sucha Singh was arrested in connection with an incident of sacrilege reported in Shuor Kalan village in Gurdaspur district. The man has been accused of desecrating the Sri Gutka Sahib, a holy book of the Sikhs.
India 27-Apr-2023
Bhagwant Singh Sialka, who is a member of the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC) and an advocate, on April 27 alleged that the arrest of pro-Khalistani leader Amritpal and other associates of the Waris Punjab De (WPD) group was a political maneuver intended to generate electoral benefits in the forthcoming by-polls in Punjab.
India 28-Apr-2023
The Intelligence Wing of the Punjab Police has issued a warning to the Jail Department, cautioning them of a potential armed attack by notorious gangster and Khalistani terrorist, Lakhbir Singh alias Landa, who is suspected to be in Canada, for the release of his accomplices. The Additional Director General of Police (ADGP) (Jails), Arun Pal Singh, has communicated with the authorities of various jail authorities in Punjab, including Amritsar Central Jail, to make the necessary arrangements to prevent any untoward incidents. However, Surinder Singh, the Superintendent of Amritsar Central Jail, declined to comment on the matter.
India 28-Apr-2023
The Border Security Force (BSF) recovered 8 kg of narcotics, suspected to have been dropped by a drone near the International Border (IB) on the outskirts of Kakkar village in Amritsar district on April 28.
India 28-Apr-2023
According to his lawyer Bhagwant Singh Siyalka, Amritpal Singh, the leader of Waris Punjab De (WPD), currently lodged at Dibrugarh Central Jail in Assam, has affirmed that he is in a state of high spirits behind bars. The extremist leader conveyed a message written in Gurmukhi to Siyalka while in prison, stating that he was in "chardi kala" (high spirits) owing to divine blessings. Amritpal Singh criticized the Punjab government for registering "numerous false cases" against Sikhs, including members of his organization, and appealed to the Khalsa Panth for assistance, requesting the establishment of a competent legal team to handle these cases.
India 28-Apr-2023
The Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC) officials on April 28 wrote a letter to Amritsar Police commissioner Naunihal Singh, urging him to take action against social media accounts disseminating derogatory material concerning the Sikh faith and its spiritual leaders.
India 28-Apr-2023
The Anti-Gangster Task Force (AGTF) of the Punjab Police arrested three persons, identified as Onkar Singh, Sukhjinder Singh and Prabhjot Singh, for their involvement in obtaining and supplying passports using fraudulent information to aid the escape of gangsters and other offenders from the country. Police have seized at least nine passports, besides recovering several photocopies of passports of absconding gangsters prepared using fake particulars.
United Kingdom 28-Apr-2023
Colin Bloom, a faith advisor in the United Kingdom (UK), expressed that the Sikh community in the UK is composed of individuals who are generally kind, hardworking, and generous, describing them as beautiful people. However, he also pointed out that there is a small but vocal minority among them who are involved in pro-Pakistan extremism, and are disproportionately aggressive and threatening. Bloom sees the rise of pro-Khalistan extremism as a significant challenge that the British government needs to address and crack down on. He believes that this small extreme minority is letting down the larger Sikh community. Earlier on April 26, the UK government released a report called "Does Government 'do God'?: An independent review into how government engages with faith", authored by Colin Bloom. The report includes a section that focuses on the concerns of some members of the British Sikh community, who have expressed their worry about a small yet highly vocal group that they feel is attempting to co-opt the Sikh faith to advance a subversive pro-Khalistan agenda.
India 29-Apr-2023
The Border Security Force (BSF) recovered 1.5 kg of heroin from fields near the International Border (IB) in Amritsar sector of Amritsar district on April 29.
India 29-Apr-2023
To commemorate Khalistan Declaration Day, Bhai Daljit Singh issued a statement on April 29.
India 29-Apr-2023
The Border Security Force (BSF) arrested three drug smugglers, identified as Jobanjot Singh, Bohad Singh and Angrej Singh, who were sent to collect a consignment of heroin by Amritsar-based drug smugglers near the International Border (IB) on April 29. The suspects were found to have made phone calls to numbers in Pakistan and shared their location, but were arrested by BSF personnel.
India 29-Apr-2023
On April 29, members of pro-Khalistan outfit Dal Khalsa gathered at Akal Takht in Amritsar and demanded the formation of Khalistan. They celebrated April 29 as Khalistan Declaration Day and held placards with messages promoting Khalistan. They claimed that Sikhs were promised a sovereign nation in 1947, but India did not fulfil its promise. They insinuated that the demand for Khalistan is a "conflict between Punjab and India". They appealed to the international community to press India to let the people have the right to self-determination. The spokesperson of Dal Khalsa claimed that India wants to solve the political problem in Punjab using armed forces and that they do not want violence. They also claimed that the people of Kashmir and Nagaland should have the right to self-determination.
United Kingdom 29-Apr-2023
According to report, no one showed up for a protest called by Khalistani extremists outside the Indian High Commission office in London on April 29. The protest was against the use of the term "Sikh extremism" in a report submitted by Colin Bloom, an independent faith engagement adviser. Bloom's report emphasized the need for the United Kingdom (UK) government to define and tackle harmful extremism, highlighting the negative effect extremist groups create on Sikh communities. Despite the call for protests on social media, none turned up.
India 30-Apr-2023
The Border Security Force (BSF) seized 1 kg of heroin near the International Border in Ferozepur sector in Ferozepur district on April 30.
Canada 30-Apr-2023
Canadian Prime Minister (PM) Justin Trudeau on April 30 participated in the Vaisakhi Nagar Kirtan in Toronto in Canada, after seven years along with some of his Cabinet colleagues and Liberal Party MPs. His presence at the Khalsa Day event in 2017 had irked the Indian government due to the presence of Khalistani flags, posters of Jarnail Singh Bhindranwale, and the celebration of a motion terming the 1984 anti-Sikh riots as "genocide." This year's celebrations also featured Khalistani flags, but the parade's organisers largely prevented the occasion from being hijacked by separatist Khalistani elements.
United Kingdom 30-Apr-2023
According to a report titled “Does government do God” by the United Kingdom (UK) government, Khalistani groups are proliferating in the UK. The report states that Khalistani groups are found often masquerading as human right groups to avoid public scrutiny. The report further indicates that these groups are getting support from some political figures within the parliament. People interviewed for the report stated that they ‘live in fear’ if they disagree with the ideology of these activists. Additionally, the report includes a recorded testimony of a witness who stated that these groups were trying to brainwash the youth to create divisions and promote hatred in India.
Canada 30-Apr-2023
According to reports, thousands of Sikhs gathered in Downtown Toronto in Canada to celebrate Khalsa Day on April 30. It was the third biggest parade in the city of Toronto. The parade, organized by the Ontario Sikhs and Gurdwaras Council, started at Exhibition Place and ended at Toronto City Hall's Nathan Phillips Square.
United Kingdom 30-Apr-2023
An Indian-origin crime gang leader, Raj Singh alias Rajinder Singh Bassi was sentenced to eight years and ten months in prison by a British court after admitting to drug smuggling, money laundering, and assault charges. The United Kingdom (UK)'s National Crime Agency (NCA) proved that Singh ran an organised crime group with Waqas Iqbal and regularly dealt in Class A drugs and firearms. Singh also assaulted a police officer. Iqbal was sentenced to 12 years in prison after admitting to similar charges. The duo were intercepted through their communications on the platform EncroChat by the NCA.
India 01-May-2023
The Border Security Force (BSF) seized 2.5 kg of heroin that were dropped by a drone from Pakistan in Setha Wala village in Ferozepur district on May 1. The BSF recovered three packets of heroin, two sparkling balls, and a luminous blue LED bulb with battery attached to the consignment. This is the fifth incident of drug seizure in the past five days along the International Border in Punjab.
India 01-May-2023
A study conducted by the Indian Council of Social Science Research (ICSSR), focused on the drug addiction problem in Punjab and neighbouring states, found that more than 95% of respondents believed that politicians were distributing drugs to woo voters and that some leaders were involved in the drug trade. The addicts also talked about a nexus between political leaders, police officials, and drug smugglers. The study also mentioned media reports that had previously exposed the police-drug-politician nexus. The researchers emphasized that it was impossible to break the supply chain of drugs without punishing the major players involved in it.
India 01-May-2023
Police arrested a drug peddler, Lakhwinder Singh following the recovery of 1 kg of heroin from his fields near the barbed fencing at Kilche village in Ferozepur sector in Ferozepur district on May 1.
India 01-May-2023
Police arrested two associates of gangsters Lakhbir Singh Landa and Satnam Singh alias Satta Naushehra, identified as Jobanjit Singh and Joginder Singh alias Rinku in Amritsar on May 1. The arrests were made in connection with a recent shooting incident in Naraingarh area in Punjab. The suspects were acting on the directions of Ravisher Singh, who is currently in Portugal and is an accomplice of Landa and Satta.
United Kingdom 01-May-2023
The United Kingdom (UK) government-commissioned "Bloom Review" report on how the government should engage with faith groups in England has sparked backlash from British Sikhs and Hindus. The report's chapter on "faith-based extremism" included Sikh extremism and Hindu nationalism alongside Islamist extremism, white supremacy, black nationalism and Buddhist nationalism. The report calls for a more comprehensive understanding of subversive and sectarian Sikh extremist activity in the UK.
India 01-May-2023
Pro-Khalistan leader Amritpal Singh, who was arrested on April 23 in Punjab’s Moga district after a month-long manhunt, has refused to disclose his sources of money and poses a threat to peace and security, according to officials. He has pledged to fight against drugs and conversions if released but authorities fear he will resume his previous activities. His arrest has raised concerns about a resurgence of militancy in Punjab.
Canada 01-May-2023
Satinderjit Singh Brar alias Goldy Brar, a notorious gangster from Punjab and a Canadian fugitive accused of involvement in the murder of Punjabi singer Sidhu Moosewala and other crimes in India, has been added to Canada's top 25 most wanted criminals list. A statement issued by the Canadian High Commission in New Delhi said the country’s Be On Look Out (BOLO) Programme, a not-for profit organization that amplifies police fugitive cases to increase public awareness, has updated its list of 25 most wanted criminals on May 1. Brar, who arrived in Canada on a student visa in 2017, is not charged with any criminal offences in Canada, but is under investigation by the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP). There is no reward for his capture, but the RCMP is working closely with Indian law enforcement to ensure justice is served. Brar is believed to be a risk to public safety and has direct links to a Pakistan-based Khalistani terrorist outfit Babbar Khalsa International (BKI) operatives.
India 02-May-2023
The Border Security Force (BSF) on May 2 arrested two suspected drug smugglers, identified as Harjinder Pal Singh and Lovepreet Singh from near the Kaku Singh Wala border post in Abohar in Fazilka district. According to BSF, they were carrying out a reconnaissance mission to locate a suitable spot to receive a drug shipment from across the border.
India 02-May-2023
The Garhshankar police arrested two smugglers and recovered drugs and liquor from their possession in Hoshiarpur district on May 2.
India 02-May-2023
Tanda police arrested one person, identified as Suraj and seized 58 gm of intoxicating powder from him in Hoshiarpur district on May 2.
India 02-May-2023
Mukerian police arrested a drug smuggler, identified as Sunil Kumar and seized 100 gm of heroin from him in Hoshiarpur district on May 2.
United Kingdom 02-May-2023
The Sikh Group, a UK-based organization, released 'The Sikhs 100' list of influential Sikhs from around the world in various fields. Takht Hazur Sahib Jathedar Giani Kulwant Singh retained the top position, followed by Akal Takht officiating Jathedar Giani Harpreet Singh. Chief Minister (CM) Bhagwant Mann and Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC) chief Harjinder Singh Dhami feature at the third and fourth spot, respectively. Other notable names on the list include former PM Dr Manmohan Singh, Union Minister Hardeep Puri, and actor Diljit Dosanjh.
United Kingdom 03-May-2023
A Sikh restaurant owner in London, United Kingdom (UK), Harman Singh Kapoor, received threats to his life after posting a video on TikTok against Khalistan movement. Reports indicate that his restaurant was targeted by supporters of Khalistan and he and his family have been repeatedly harassed and intimidated on social media, including receiving death threats. Harman said that his wife and his daughter received rape threats. Despite reporting the incidents to the authorities, Harman and his family continue to experience a sense of insecurity. Harman has accused the police of stating that they can only intervene if physical harm or loss of life occurs.
India 03-May-2023
Two men, who were arrested in March for allegedly sending pro-Khalistan voice messages ahead of the India-Australia cricket match, have been denied bail by a sessions court in Ahmedabad, Gujrat on May 3. The messages threatened to disrupt the match and were sent using a sim box, allegedly by Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, the chief of Khalistani terror outfit Sikhs For Justice (SFJ).
India 03-May-2023
The Uttarakhand special task force has discovered that Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, a leader of banned pro-Khalistani group Sikhs For Justice (SFJ), used a Japanese telecommunications company to make threat calls to recipients in India while sitting in United States (US). The police have written to the company for further action, but are yet to receive a reply. Pannun had made threat calls to police officers, media persons and government employees in the state ahead of the three-day G20 event in Ramnagar near Nainital, a city in Uttarakhand in March.
India 03-May-2023
The Supreme Court (SC) on May 3 denied the commutation of the death sentence of Balwant Singh Rajoana, a Babbar Khalsa International (BKI) terrorist convicted of assassinating former Punjab chief minister Beant Singh. The court has directed the Centre to decide on Rajoana's request for compassion. The decision was made by a panel of three judges who had reserved their decision in March 2023, due to the Centre's delayed decision on Rajoana's mercy petition.
India 03-May-2023
The Shiromani Gurdwara Prabandhak Committee (SGPC) has started the ‘Akhand Path’ to celebrate the 300th birth centenary of Sardar Jassa Singh Ramgarhia at the Bunga Ramgarhia in the Golden Temple in Amritsar, Punjab. The main event will be held at Gurdwara Sri Manji Sahib Diwan Hall on May 5, which will be attended by Singh Sahibs, Jathedars of Takht Sahibs, heads of various sects and prominent personalities of the Panth.
India 03-May-2023
According to reports, Chinese-made DJI Matrice 300 RTK drones with advanced Artificial Intelligence (AI) capabilities have become a popular tool for Pakistani smugglers to drop drugs, arms, and ammunition in Punjab from across the border. Border Security Force (BSF) officials have seized 10 drones in 2023, with eight being Matrice 300 RTK models. The drones are equipped with high-definition cameras that can live record and take pictures, and up to three payloads can be mounted on them simultaneously. They can also be operated with dual remote controls having an HD screen. At least 30 drone intrusions have been reported at the Punjab border this year, with BSF having captured 22 drones last year. The BSF is hopeful of acquiring an effective anti-drone technology soon to combat the threat.
India 03-May-2023
Police on May 3 arrested a man, identified as Gaurav Pandit for allegedly posting objectionable comments on social media against Sikh gurus and the community, in Yamunanagar district of Haryana.
India 03-May-2023
Police and Border Security Force (BSF) troops on May 3 arrested two persons from Firozpur in Punjab, when they came to collect heroin smuggled via a drone from Pakistan in Sri Ganganagar district of Rajasthan. The men were found with a country-made pistol and three phones.
India 04-May-2023
According to reports, a man dressed as a Nihang and believed to be a drug addict, identified as Karam Singh committed a sacrilege of a Gutka (a religious text) at Hargobindpur village in Gurdaspur district on May 4.
India 04-May-2023
Punjab police on May 4 arrested 13 persons connected to cross-border smuggling, with links to Pakistani smugglers supported by ISI (Inter-Services Intelligence), and seized arms, ammunition, drugs and cash from them from different parts of Punjab. The Deputy Inspector General, Border Range, Narender Bhargav, said that police had arrested 13 smugglers and recovered 6 foreign-made pistols including one .32 bore, two Glocks, and three 30 bore, 7 magazines, 77 live rounds, 4.5 kg heroin and INR 32.5 lakh drug money from their possession. He said the arrest of the gang has not only disrupted the cross-border drug and arms smuggling operation but also prevented potential terrorist incidents in the border state. The seized arms, including Austrian Glocks, were brought into India through drones and traditional smuggling techniques. Most of the suspects were natives of border villages in Punjab.
India 04-May-2023
Kirandeep Kaur, the wife of Amritpal Singh, a Khalistan sympathizer and the leader of Waris Punjab De (WPD) who was arrested on April 23 and sent to Dibrugarh Jail in Assam, met him at the prison on May 4. She was accompanied by family members and other WPD activists. Amritpal Singh is among nine of his associates who are also in jail with NSA (The National Security Act) invoked against him and facing multiple FIRs (First Information Report). Discussions about the cases were held between his family members and lawyer, Simranjit Singh.
India 04-May-2023
The Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC) president Harjinder Singh Dhami on May 4 urged the BJP-led Centre to release Sikh prisoners who have completed their terms in jails across the country as a befitting tribute to late leader Parkash Singh Badal. Dhami made the request during a prayer meeting for Badal, which was attended by Union Home Minister Amit Shah. Shah paid tribute to Badal and praised him as a true nationalist who always stood with the nation.
India 04-May-2023
The Punjab and Haryana High Court on May 4 was informed that three accused in the drug case against former minister Bikram Singh Majithia were still at large and residing in Canada. The court was also told that the investigation into the case would examine the role of all police officers who may have helped in drug trafficking or smuggling and would be concluded within a month, taking into account all three reports of the SIT. The extradition process had been initiated against 12 accused, including Majithia, with regard to six First Information Reports (FIRs) mentioned in a report earlier submitted by the head of the special task force.
Australia 05-May-2023
A Hindu temple in Sydney, Australia, BAPS (Bochasanwasi Shri Akshar Purushottam Swaminarayan Sanstha) Shri Swaminarayan Mandir was defaced with anti-India graffiti on the walls allegedly by pro-Khalistan elements on May 5. A Khalistan flag was also found hanging on the gate. The temple authorities reported the matter to the New South Wales police, and a member of parliament reached the temple to help repaint the wall.
Canada 05-May-2023
According to reports, Canadian police are seeking at least three suspects involved in an assault on attendees of an event in Surrey, British Columbia in Canada, that prevented India's High Commissioner in Ottawa from attending in March. Pro-Khalistan protestors were present, and some attendees, including a journalist, were reportedly assaulted. Two videos have been released showing three suspects believed to be involved.
India 05-May-2023
The Jathedar of Akal Takht Sahib, Giani Harpreet Singh, on May 5 praised Sardar Jassa Singh Ramgaria as a great hero of the Sikh panth, whose life serves as an inspiration to the community. He also emphasized the need for unity within the Sikh community, stating that differences and interests should be abandoned for the sake of Sikh existence, integrity, principles, morality, and progress.
Pakistan 05-May-2023
According to reports, religious minorities in Pakistan are facing targeted attacks and persecution, with hardly a day passing without an attack. Law enforcement agencies have failed to apprehend the perpetrators of these murders, leaving minorities feeling frustrated and helpless. Pakistan has been designated a "country of particular concern" under the Religious Freedom Act for its flagrant violations, and local law enforcement has failed to protect religious minorities and individuals accused of blasphemy.
India 05-May-2023
Brij Mohan Suri, brother of slain Hindu leader Sudhir Suri, on May 5 alleged that unidentified persons fired outside his house and he retaliated by firing gunshots in Amritsar. Police investigations are underway, but they suspect the matter to be suspicious as there was no sign of firing from anyone except Suri. Brij Mohan also claimed his family received threats from virtual phone numbers and that he got a call from unknown callers who said they had reached outside his house. He accused the police of inaction and held a dharna outside the police chowki.
India 05-May-2023
Punjab Police on May 5 arrested one operative of the terrorist module linked to abroad-based wanted terrorists Lakhbir Singh alias Landa and Satbir alias Satta, identified as Gurbhej Singh along with 10 pistols in Tarn Taran district. Director General of Police (DGP) Gaurav Yadav said he was arrested based on reliable inputs that he would go to a location pinpointed by Landa and Satta to retrieve weapons.
Canada 05-May-2023
A well-known kabaddi promoter in Canada, identified as Kamaljit Singh was shot at outside his house in Surrey in Canada by unidentified assailants on May 5. The incident comes after the killing of three Punjabis abroad in the past two days. Two brothers from Bidhipur village in Kapurthala were shot dead by their associates in Portland, in United States (US) and a 30-year-old from Kapurthala was shot dead by robbers in the US.
Pakistan 06-May-2023
The wanted Khalistani terrorist and the chief of Khalistan Commando Force (KCF), Paramjit Singh Panjwar, was shot dead by unidentified assailants in Lahore in Pakistan on May 6. According to sources, Panjwar was gunned down in the morning by two motorcycle-borne men near his residence in Lahore. He was involved in drug and weapons smuggling and was designated as a terrorist under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act in July 2020. Panjwar, who was the chief of the separatist group Khalistan Commando Force (KCF-Panjwar group), was accused by the Indian government of various illegal activities including arranging arms training, promoting drug trade, smuggling fake Indian currency notes, inciting minorities against the government, and attempting to reactivate former militants, sleeper cells, and those on bail to form a nexus with other forces hostile to India. The KCF was listed as a terrorist organization under the UAPA.
Pakistan 06-May-2023
According to reports, the killing of Paramjit Singh Panjwar alias Sardar Singh Malik, the longest serving head of the banned terrorist organisation Khalistan Commando Force (KCF) could have been a result of inter-gang rivalry or a dispute with other terrorist organizations. Panjwar is the second notorious terrorist killed recently in Pakistan. Earlier in January 2020, Harmeet Singh alias Happy PhD, who headed the Khalistan Liberation Force (KLF) was also killed.
United Kingdom 06-May-2023
Lord Indarjit Singh, a British Sikh peer, will present King Charles with the Coronation Glove, which symbolizes the Sovereign's role as an advocate and challenger for the protection and honour of the people, during the coronation ceremony. Lord Singh will join other faith leaders in the procession and gift presentation.
India 06-May-2023
The Punjab Police on May 6 conducted a massive raid involving 1200 personnel across 813 premises of 775 individuals involved in Excise Act violations, recovering 1470 kg Lahan, 403 bottles of illicit liquor, and 70 grams of heroin. The Enforcement Directorate (ED) also carried out search operations at 21 locations in Delhi and Gurugram, seizing INR 1.01 crore in cash and incriminating evidence in connection with Amira Pure Foods Pvt. Ltd. and Karan A Chanana under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act, 2002 (PMLA).
India 06-May-2023
The Anti-Gangster Task Force (AGTF) arrested Harwinder Singh alias Jugnu Walia, a close aide of Mukhtar Ansari, a gangster-turned-politician, along with a pistol and six cartridges in Punjab on May 6. Jugnu Walia was a wanted criminal with a bounty of INR 1 lakh announced by the Uttar Pradesh (UP) police and has more than 12 cases registered against him.
India 06-May-2023
The family of Paramjit Singh Panjwar, who was shot dead in Lahore, Pakistan, urged the Indian government to bring back his mortal remains. Panjwar's elder brother, Sarabjit Singh stated that they learned about his death through the media, and they had not been in contact with him since he moved to Pakistan decades ago. The family has also alleged that they faced mental and physical torture from the Punjab Police after Panjwar joined the Khalistan Commando Force (KCF).
India 06-May-2023
A blast occurred on Heritage Street leading to the Golden Temple in Amritsar in Amritsar district on May 6, leaving five to six persons injured, including some girls from Haryana who sustained minor injuries. The cause of the explosion is yet to be determined, and forensic experts from Chandigarh are investigating the matter. The police have urged people to maintain peace and harmony and verify information before sharing anything on social media.
India 07-May-2023
External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on May 7 spoke about India's foreign policy and response to global geopolitics at an interactive session on 'Foreign Policy of Modi Government' in Mysuru in Karnataka. He mentioned that with nice people, India is nice, and with difficult people, India pushes back. He also discussed former Prime Minister of Pakistan Imran Khan playing his speeches lauding India for its independent foreign policy and how India has stood up to European hypocrisy. Jaishankar responded to his becoming the face of South Asian pride, and whether South Asian nations should assert themselves in global geopolitics. He also talked about the technocrat vs politician debate and how his political colleagues do not take him seriously if he is only referred to as a technocrat.
India 07-May-2023
A group of activists in Jalandhar, India, have announced the launch of a social media campaign called "Tracking hate against Sikhs" to counter and expose false and hate propaganda against the Sikh community and Punjab. The activists, from different backgrounds, cited deliberate and organised campaigns against the community and state during and after the farm movement. The campaign will be active on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram.
India 07-May-2023
According to experts, the killing of Khalistan Commando Force (KCF) chief, Paramjit Singh Panjwar is the third suspicious killing of a Khalistani in the country and it is a pattern of "use and throw" by the Pakistani state. Panjwar was allegedly involved in drug smuggling and was complicit in promoting fake Indian currency through drug smugglers. After his death, three other Khalistani leaders remain in Pakistan. Panjwar's family is seeking his body for the last rites as per Sikh tradition. The former DGP of Punjab, Chander Shekhar, suggests that the men were no longer of use to Pakistan and were therefore killed.
India 07-May-2023
The district police on May 7 arrested three members of a gang involved in inter-state smuggling of illegal arms and seized five .32 bore pistols, one .30 bore pistol, eight magazines, four live cartridges, and a car in Fatehgarh Sahib district. They were identified as Gurtej Singh alias Sandhu, Dilawar Singh alias Dagar and Sher Singh, alias Shera. The gang used to bring illegal arms from Madhya Pradesh and supply them to criminals in Punjab, Haryana, Delhi, Uttar Pradesh, and Rajasthan. The kingpin of the gang, Gurtej Singh, is already facing four criminal cases of robbery in Uttarakhand and for theft of a motorcycle in Haryana and Mohali.
India 07-May-2023
The family of slain Khalistan Commando Force (KCF) chief Paramjit Singh Panjwar appealed to the Indian government to bring back his body for the last rites in their native village of Panjwar in Tarn Taran District. Panjwar had been living in Pakistan for 33 years until he was shot dead in Lahore early on May 6. Indian security agencies suspect that Paramjit had become a liability to the Pakistan government after failing to produce "desirable results" for a long, and had been living in an ISI (Inter-Services Intelligence) safehouse in Lahore under the alias Malik Sardar Singh.
Pakistan 07-May-2023
According to reports, Pakistan has been reluctant to grant visas to slain Khalistan Commando Force (KCF) chief Paramjit Singh Panjwar's sons, settled in Germany, to attend their father's last rites. The Pakistani media has reported his death as a routine killing of a Sikh. Panjwar was involved in drug and weapons smuggling and accused of various crimes, including killing 18 students in Patiala. The killing is the latest instance of terror kingpins being targeted outside India.
United Kingdom 07-May-2023
A report by Colin Bloom, an Independent Faith Engagement Advisor, reveals that pro-Khalistani activities across the globe are being fuelled by a small group of terrorists and extremists, aided and funded by Pakistan. The Khalistani movement uses the freedom provided in Western nations, especially the United Kingdom (UK), to spread hate and extremism and to coerce moderate Sikhs to support their ideology. The majority of Sikhs and Indians living abroad do not support extremism and the call for a separate Khalistan. The Khalistanis use gurdwaras to spread their messages of hate and extremism and to collect funding for their operations.
India 07-May-2023
Punjab Vidhan Sabha (Legislative Assembly) speaker Kultar Singh Sandhawan on May 7 alleged that the removal of religious history from school curriculum as a part of a hidden agenda to detach students from their culture. He made the remarks during a gathering in Mohali commemorating the 300th birth anniversary of Sikh empire's founder Jassa Singh Ramgarhia and emphasized the importance of keeping children connected with Sikh history.
India 08-May-2023
Another blast occurred on Heritage Street on the way to the Golden Temple in Amritsar in Amritsar district on May 8. One person was reportedly injured in the blast which happened near the site of a previous blast of May 6. Police and forensic teams are investigating and waiting for the forensic examination report of the first blast. The Director General of Police (DGP) visited the site and denied any terrorist angle.
India 08-May-2023
A National Investigation Agency (NIA) team on May 8 arrived in Amritsar to investigate the twin low-intensity blasts that occurred near Saragarhi multi-storey parking on Heritage Street near Golden Temple. The team held a meeting with police officials and forensic examination teams.
India 08-May-2023
Dreaded gangster Sukhpreet Singh alias Sukha Barewalia, was shot dead by unidentified assailants in Ludhiana in Ludhiana district on May 8. The gangster was ambushed by three assailants who were already waiting for him in Joginder Nagar of Haibowal. The shooters opened fire on him and fled the scene.
India 08-May-2023
Police on May 8 arrested five persons and recovered over 1 lakh intoxicating tablets in Jalalabad in Fazilka district.
India 08-May-2023
The Border Security Force (BSF) recovered 1.59 kg of heroin that was allegedly dropped in a village in Amritsar in Amritsar district on May 8.
India 08-May-2023
The Special Director General of Police (DGP), Law and Order, Arpit Shukla, on May 8 stated that security has been strengthened in Jalandhar to ensure a peaceful and fair election on May 10. The Border districts' SSPs (Senior Superintendent of Police) have been instructed to seal borders, increase patrolling and carry out flag marches in vulnerable areas.
India 09-May-2023
Gursimran Singh Mand, the National joint coordinator of the All-India Congress Committee, was provided with Y-category security on May 9 due to threats received from Canada-based terrorist Goldy Brar and pro-Khalistan leader Gopal Singh Chawla. Mand had earlier requested young police personnel for his security cover.
India 09-May-2023
According to reports, the killing of Khalistan Commando Force (KCF) chief Paramjit Singh Panjwar in Pakistan has made India's most wanted criminals living in Pakistan feel less secure. Panjwar was designated a terrorist by the Union Home Ministry of Home Affairs (UMHA) and was responsible for drug smuggling, dealing with fake Indian currency, and many other crimes, including killing 18 students of Thappar Engineering College in Patiala. Other terrorists, such as Bashir Ahmad Peer, Syed Khalid Raza, Aijaz Ahmad Ahanger, Harmeet Singh, and Harwinder Singh Rinda, have also been killed outside India in recent years. Pakistan has been known as a safe haven for these criminals, but this trend of killings shows that it is no longer safe. Pakistan is currently on a "use and throw" policy, and criminals who are no longer impactful or relevant to the ISI's (Inter-Services Intelligence) motives are being shunned.
India 09-May-2023
Australia reiterated its commitment to take action against those responsible for the vandalism of Hindu temples in the country. The High Commissioner to India, Barry O'Farrell, stated that Australian security forces will track down and prosecute those responsible for the incidents, which have included pro-Khalistan slogans and anti-India graffiti. O'Farrell also emphasized that Australia respects India's sovereignty and rejected any kind of referendum against it.
India 09-May-2023
Punjab Director General of Police (DGP) Gaurav Yadav on May 9 stated that the terror angle cannot be ruled out in connection with the recent blasts in Amritsar's heritage street. He also mentioned that a two-day operation vigil has been started in the state to check on anti-social elements and build confidence among the masses. The Punjab police is investigating the incidents in coordination with agencies like NIA, NSG and forensic experts.
India 09-May-2023
The Punjab Police on May 9 launched a two-day state-wide operation named 'OPS Vigil' aimed at cracking down on drug trafficking, anti-social elements, and criminals. Under the operation, ADGP/IGP (Additional Director General of Police/ Inspector General of Police) rank officers from Punjab Police headquarters were deputed in each police district to personally supervise the operation, which will conclude at 7 pm on May 10.
India 09-May-2023
A team from the National Security Guard (NSG) on May 9 visited the site of two low-intensity blasts in the Heritage Street of Amritsar. Earlier, the National Investigation Agency (NIA) and Forensic Science Laboratory (FSL) have also inspected the area and collected samples, with results from FSL awaited.
India 09-May-2023
Lakhwinder Singh Lakha, a life convict in the Beant Singh assassination case, was granted bail by a local court in Chandigarh on May 9. Lakha's sister Sukhwinder Kaur had filed a plea for the acceptance of bail bonds on behalf of the accused through an advocate.
United Kingdom 09-May-2023
Sixteen people, including several of Indian-origin, have been convicted following an investigation into an organised crime group involved in international money laundering and people smuggling in west London in United Kingdom (UK). The group is believed to have smuggled over GBP 42 million in cash out of the UK between 2017 and 2019, with the money believed to have come from the sale of banned drugs and organised immigration crime. The group made hundreds of trips to Dubai during this time.
India 09-May-2023
Lakhwinder Singh Lakha, a Babbar Khalsa International (BKI) terrorist serving a life sentence for the assassination of former Chief Minister Beant Singh in 1995, was granted bail by a local court in Punjab on May 9. The decision was made in accordance with a directive from the Punjab and Haryana High Court to release all prisoners who have completed their life sentence, pending a decision on their permanent release. Lakha was released on bail from Model Jail, Burail, Chandigarh.
India 10-May-2023
India's National Investigation Agency (NIA) has issued a "blue notice" and Look Out Circulars (LOCs) against several individuals based in the United States, Greece, and the Philippines in connection with an alleged nexus of gangsters and Khalistani outfits operating from foreign soil. The "blue notice" was issued against Harjot Singh, while LOCs were issued against Satnam Singh, Amrik Singh, and Mandeep Singh. The case relates to an alleged nexus between Khalistani outfits and north India-based gangsters in terror attacks, smuggling of arms and drugs, targeted hits, and extortions. The NIA has declared a reward of INR 10 lakh on Kashmir Singh Galwaddi and INR 15 lakh on Canada-based gangster Lakhbir Singh Landa. Overall, close to 300 gangsters and mid-level criminals have been arrested by NIA and Delhi Police as part of a larger crackdown since August 2022.
Pakistan 10-May-2023
According to report, retired Pakistani military officers, Major Adil Raja and Colonel Akbar Hussain, alleged that Pakistan's Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) operates a smuggling network involving high-ranking army officers that fuels the Khalistan movement and narco-terrorism. The report claims that the ISI exploited Khalistan Commando Force (KCF) chief Paramjit Singh Panjwar to operate drug cartels and target Punjab's youth. The ISI allegedly raised funds under the guise of black operations and utilised them to finance smuggling and contraband networks. The report also alleges that the Pakistani army used actresses as honey traps.
India 10-May-2023
The president of National Akali Dal, Paramjit Singh Pamma on May 10 accused Pakistan of providing shelter to senior Khalistani militants on their soil while pretending to be friends with India. Pamma attributed the recent killing of Khalistani Commando Force (KCF) chief to Pakistan's efforts to get rid of liabilities and clean its terrorist land. He also alleged that Pakistan is involving youth, including Harvinder Singh Rinda, in sending drugs to India with the help of drones.
India 10-May-2023
Harjot Singh, a gangster accused of the Nabha jail-break, on May 10 was transferred to Muktsar district jail after a medical examination at the Civil Hospital in Muktsar under tight security.