KHALISTAN EXTREMISM MONITOR
A project of the Institute for Conflict Management
A project of the Institute for Conflict Management
India 13-Jul-2024
Border Security Force (BSF) troops on July 13 recovered a packet containing 2.3 kg of heroin from a field near Rattar Chattar village in Gurdaspur district.
India 14-Jul-2024
A special National Investigation Agency (NIA) court in Mohali, Sahibzada Ajit Singh (SAS) Nagar district, dismissed the bail plea of Dharminder Singh alias Dhanna, arrested in a drug-terror case linked to the Khalistan Liberation Force (KLF) and a Pakistan-based drug syndicate. The court rejected the plea citing serious allegations under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA) and connections to a narcotic-terror network involved in heroin trafficking to Dubai and Pakistan.
India 14-Jul-2024
Police on July 14 arrested a drug peddler identified as Manpreet Kumar alias Manna on charges of selling intoxicant tablets and seized 45 such tablets from his possession near Joshian Mohalla near Phagwara in Kapurthala district.
India 14-Jul-2024
Police on July 14 arrested three drug peddlers identified as Balwinder Singh alias Bohra, Baljit Singh alias Kala, and Ashok Singh alias Goshi and seized one kg of heroin, a bike, and three mobile phones from their possession near the T-point on Bahmniwala road in Jalalabad, Fazilka district.
India 14-Jul-2024
Punjab Police on July 14 arrested two gangsters identified as Deepak and Ramandeep Singh, and seized one revolver and one pistol from their possession in Banur, Sahibzada Ajit Singh (SAS) Nagar district. The gangsters were involved in two firing incidents near Rajpura in Patiala district on July 13, following a brief encounter with the police.
United States 14-Jul-2024
Khalistani terrorist and chief of the banned outfit Sikh For Justice (SFJ), Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, condemned the assassination attempt on President Donald Trump by equating it with alleged actions by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, claiming that Modi boasts of killing his political opponents both domestically and abroad. He also accused the Indian government of using political violence and transnational repression against pro-Khalistan Sikhs in Canada and the United States.
India 14-Jul-2024
The police on July 14 arrested five associates of Canada-based terrorist Lakhbir Singh, alias Landa, identified as Simranjit Singh, alias Simma, Paramjit Singh, alias Pamma, Dilbagh Singh, alias Baga, Dilpreet Singh, and Sajandeep Singh, and seized three .30 bore pistols from their possession in Jalandhar district. The police revealed that Simranjit Singh and Dilpreet Singh were in direct contact with Landa and had threatened traders and shopkeepers in Tarn Taran and Amritsar for money.
India 14-Jul-2024
A meeting of the five Sikh high priests, led by the Akal Takht Jathedar, is scheduled to take place on July 15 at the Akal Takht Secretariat in Amritsar, Punjab, to address the actions of Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) rebel leaders. The rebel leaders had apologized for past mistakes during their leadership from 2007-2017. The meeting will also discuss broader issues affecting the Panth, such as the controversial depiction of an 'Anand Karaj' scene in a TV serial.
Pakistan 14-Jul-2024
Provincial Minister for Minority Affairs and President of the Pakistan Sikh Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee, Sardar Ramesh Singh Arora, highlighted efforts to reclaim lands belonging to minority worship places in Punjab province, Pakistan, following the vision of Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz. He praised recent actions reclaiming the pond at Gurdwara Babe Di Beri in Sialkot from illegal occupants, which had been under land mafia control for 77 years.
Canada 15-Jul-2024
Liberal Party's Indo-Canadian Member of Parliament (MP) Chandra Arya urged Canadian politicians on social media site X on July 15 to condemn the public celebration of Indian Prime Minister (PM) Indira Gandhi's assassination and the glorification of Khalistani terrorists, in the aftermath of the attempted killing of former United States (US) President Donald Trump. He highlighted the urgency of denouncing such violent acts and those who celebrate them, and called for an end to the attendance of events where terrorism is rejoiced and for politicians to call out those targeting Hindu-Canadians.
Canada 15-Jul-2024
Canadian Prime Minister (PM) Justin Trudeau referred to singer Diljit Dosanjh as 'Punjabi' instead of 'Indian' on social media site X on July 15, receiving severe backlash. Trudeau's post, celebrating Dosanjh's success at the Rogers Centre in Toronto, Canada, sparked criticism from netizens who insisted on acknowledging Diljit as 'Indian.' This controversy follows Trudeau's previous criticism for attending a Khalsa Day event where pro-Khalistan slogans were raised, leading to strained diplomatic relations between India and Canada.
India 15-Jul-2024
According to sources, radical Khalistani preacher and jailed Member of Parliament (MP) Amritpal Singh, currently held under the National Security Act (NSA) in Dibrugarh jail in Assam, has requested permission from Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla to participate in the upcoming monsoon session starting July 22, 2024.
India 15-Jul-2024
Akal Takht Jathedar Giani Raghbir Singh, via a written statement on July 15, summoned Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) President Sukhbir Badal to provide a written explanation within 15 days regarding allegations from rebel Akali members that he failed to represent the panth's sentiments. The Akal Takht also sought clarification from the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC) over INR 90 lakh spent on advertisements. Rebel leaders accused the former SAD regime of various mistakes, including the failure to punish those responsible for the 2015 sacrilege incidents.
India 15-Jul-2024
On July 15, a district-level meeting was held at Gurudwara Shri Patshahi Dasin Sahib in Sirsa, Haryana, where prominent members and representatives of Sikh organizations discussed efforts to unite the Sikh community and advocate for their rights. The attendees proposed fielding Sikh candidates in Assembly constituencies with significant Sikh populations and allocating reserved seats to Sikhs from specific categories. They also called for Punjabi teachers in schools, the formation of Special Investigation Teams (SITs) to address derogatory social media content, and the establishment of a minority commission and community centres.
India 15-Jul-2024
Jammu and Kashmir (J&K) Director General of Police (DGP) RR Swain, while addressing media persons at the Indian Institute of Management (IIM) in Jagti, Jammu, on July 15, stated that an inter-state security meeting was held to discuss new infiltration methods by terrorists entering from the Punjab border. Swain revealed that despite the low number of terrorists, there has been a rise in terror attacks in J&K. He emphasized the operational challenges posed by the use of tunnels for infiltration, underscoring the threat posed by even a few unaccounted entities.
India 15-Jul-2024
On July 15, amidst Akal Takht Jathedar Giani Raghbir Singh summoning Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) President Sukhbir Badal to provide a written explanation within 15 days regarding allegations from rebel Akalis that he failed to represent the panth's sentiments, the rebel leaders launched a "SAD reform movement" under the leadership of Gurpartap Singh Wadala. This movement aims to revitalize the party and commemorate forgotten leaders like Gurcharan Singh Tohra and Master Tara Singh.
India 15-Jul-2024
The Counter Intelligence (CI) wing of Bathinda Police on July 15 arrested drug smuggler Sandeep Singh alias Kaka and seized 4,100 kg of poppy husk in 210 bags from a container truck originating from Madhya Pradesh (MP), in Bathinda in Bathinda district. The Police revealed that the seized consignment was destined for Jalandhar, Moga, and Ferozepur districts in Punjab.
Pakistan 15-Jul-2024
According to sources, only two of the five Sikh hardliners from India's list of 20 most-wanted men, who were released after the 2001 Parliament House attack, remain alive and are believed to be hiding in Pakistan under government patronage. Wadhawan Singh Babbar, over 70 years old, leads the Khalistani terror outfit Babbar Khalsa International (BKI) and is involved in the Punjab insurgency, wanted for numerous serious crimes. Ranjit Singh Neeta, leader of another terror outfit, Khalistan Zindabad Force (KZF), faces charges including murder and arms smuggling. Recent intelligence suggests Pakistan may be reviving its "bleed India" strategy, marked by military ambushes in Jammu and sightings of suspicious individuals near border districts.
United States 15-Jul-2024
On July 15, American lawyer and Republican Party official Harmeet Dhillon concluded the Republican National Convention with a Sikh prayer in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, United States (US), sparking a social media backlash from users who deemed it anti-Christian. Ironically, Dhillon, who has previously expressed pro-Khalistani sentiments and has a history of supporting Khalistani figures, has consistently targeted India with unsubstantiated accusations of extrajudicial killings of Khalistani activists, human rights violations, and suppression of press and religious freedoms.
India 15-Jul-2024
The Akal Takht on July 15 passed a resolution mandating that the Nishan Sahib flags at gurdwaras be either surmai (navy blue) or basanti (yellow), in accordance with Sikh Rehat Maryada. This decision follows concerns over the widespread use of kesri (saffron) colored flags, which some in the Sikh community view as a deviation from traditional colors. The Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC) is set to oversee the transition to the prescribed colors to restore consistency with the Sikh code of conduct.
India 16-Jul-2024
Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) president Sukhbir Singh Badal announced on July 16 that he would appear before the Akal Takht to address allegations from a rebel faction within the SAD that he compromised Sikh community sentiments for political gains. Earlier, on July 15, the Akal Takht Jathedar, Giani Raghbir Singh, had asked Mr. Badal to appear in person and submit a written explanation within 15 days at the Akal Takht in Amritsar, Punjab.
India 16-Jul-2024
A senior police officer revealed on July 16 that the Punjab Police has inducted three quick response teams (QRTs), specially trained by the Army, to tackle any eventuality, such as a terror attack or hostage situation, in Pathankot district, Punjab. These QRTs, equipped with specialized vehicles and a wide range of equipment, will be deployed in three subdivisions of the district. Each team, comprising ten police personnel trained in commando courses, will undertake regular patrolling to act as a force multiplier.
India 16-Jul-2024
As part of an experiment planned by the Punjab Police Special Task Force (STF) against drugs, 200 inmates lodged in prisons across Punjab were shifted to Bathinda Central Jail in Bathinda district, a “dead zone” where there is no signal to operate mobile phones. This measure aims to prevent inmates from operating smuggling networks via mobile phones. The STF conducted an intelligence-based study to identify these inmates, and communication from the jail is now only permitted via landline.
India 16-Jul-2024
The police on July 16 arrested two individuals, identified as Jaswinder Singh and Aman Kaur, and seized 70 banned tablets from their possession near Bhundarhi village in Jagraon, Ludhiana district.
India 16-Jul-2024
The police on July 16 arrested two individuals, identified as Naseeb Singh and Kuldeep Singh, and seized 45 banned tablets from their possession near the civil hospital in Raikot, Ludhiana district.
India 16-Jul-2024
The police on July 16 arrested one individual, identified as Harpreet Singh, and seized four grams of heroin from his possession in Basian village, Raikot, Ludhiana district.
India 16-Jul-2024
The police on July 16 arrested two individuals, identified as Jaspreet Singh and Harjinder Singh, and seized two grams of heroin from their possession near Ratipur village in Samrala, Ludhiana district.
India 16-Jul-2024
The police on July 16 arrested one individual identified as Saif Ali and seized 1.4 kg of opium from his possession in Khanna, Ludhiana district.
India 16-Jul-2024
The Border Security Force (BSF) on July 16 recovered two packets of heroin weighing 1.06 kg, along with three pairs of slippers, one dah (sharp-edged machete), a water bottle, and a gamcha (thin cotton towel), from the outskirts of Mahawa village in Amritsar district.
India 16-Jul-2024
A local court in Chandigarh on July 16 dismissed the bail applications of two Lawrence Bishnoi gang members identified as Parwinder and Anmolpreet Singh. They were arrested for planning to kill gangster Bhuppi Rana.
India 16-Jul-2024
Farmer union leaders Jagjit Singh Dallewal, Abhimanyu Kohar, and Surjit Singh Phool announced on July 16 in Chandigarh that the unions protesting at the Punjab and Haryana borders will march towards Delhi once the Haryana Government removes the barricades. The Samyukt Kisan Morcha (SKM) and the Kisan Mazdoor Morcha (KMM) disclosed their plans to commence their "Dilli Chalo" march to press for demands, including a legal guarantee for Minimum Support Price (MSP) on all crops. They urged traders and businessmen to join their cause and mentioned a convention in Delhi on July 22 to seek support from Opposition leaders in Parliament.
India 16-Jul-2024
Punjab Police on July 16 busted an interstate weapon smuggling network with the arrest of three persons identified as Sukhdev Singh alias Mattu, Sahil Kumar alias Mast, and Prabhjot Singh alias Prabh, and recovered three .32 bore pistols along with three magazines and six live cartridges from their possession in Vallah, Amritsar district. The arrests followed information indicating their involvement in procuring weapons from illegal dealers in Madhya Pradesh (MP) for delivery to criminal elements in Vallah. Preliminary investigations suggest that two of the arrested individuals have prior criminal records, including involvement in a murder case. Further investigations are ongoing to trace the weapon dealer in Madhya Pradesh and the intended recipients of the weapon consignment.
India 17-Jul-2024
Delhi Police issued a high alert ahead of Independence Day due to a Khalistani plot in Delhi. Security measures have been intensified, with the police enhancing vigilance following increased Khalistani activities and the appearance of supportive posters in the city. Comprehensive security arrangements are being made for Prime Minister Narendra Modi's flag-hoisting ceremony at the Red Fort.
United States 17-Jul-2024
Sarah Adams, a former Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) Targeting Officer, revealed in an episode of the Shawn Ryan Show that India’s Research and Analysis Wing (RAW) is actively conducting operations in Pakistan and Afghanistan. She claimed that RAW has formed ties with the Afghan Taliban, allocating USD 10 million to protect Taliban leader Mullah Hibatullah Akhundzada. In return, the Taliban targets Kashmiri and Sikh militant leaders in Pakistan. Adams stated that RAW agents, primarily Afghans and some Pakistanis, operate from militant camps in Afghanistan, with the United Arab Emirates (UAE) serving as a strategic base for these operations.
United States 17-Jul-2024
Pakistani journalist Jahanzaib Ali raised the question of possible foreign government involvement in the assassination plot of former United States (US) President Donald Trump, linking it to the assassination attempt on Khalistani terrorist Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, during a Department of Defense press briefing in Washington, DC, on July 17. Pentagon Press Secretary Major General Pat Ryder referred him to the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and the Secret Service for further information, underscoring Secretary Austin's condemnation of violence and its incongruence with democratic principles.
India 17-Jul-2024
Police on July 17 busted a Pakistan-backed drug smuggling racket, arresting two individuals identified as Gurmukh Singh and Jagwant Singh along with 7 kg of heroin, four 9mm Glock pistols, one .32 bore pistol, five live cartridges, five magazines, and a car at a checkpoint near Muhawa village in Amritsar district. The accused were allegedly in contact with Pakistan-based operators and were smuggling weapons and drugs into the state via drones. Investigations are ongoing to uncover the network's connections and identify others involved.
India 17-Jul-2024
Punjab Police on July 17 arrested two individuals, identified as Ajay Singh and Pargat Singh and seized 950 grams of heroin from their possession in Mode village village in Amritsar district.
India 17-Jul-2024
Punjab Police on July 17 arrested one person, identified as Rajinder Singh and seized 60 grams of heroin along with a.32-bore pistol along with two live cartridges in Burj Rai Ke village in Ajnala in Amritsar.
Canada 17-Jul-2024
The Khalistani outfit Sikhs For Justice (SFJ) on July 17 launched a 24-hour “picketing” of India’s consulate in Vancouver, British Columbia, citing a Washington Post report alleging the consulate's involvement in the killing of Khalistani terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar.
India 17-Jul-2024
The Special Task Force (STF) of Punjab Police on July 17 arrested two individuals, identified as Navdeep Kaur and Gurinder Singh alias Sally, and seized 440 grams of heroin and a car from their possession in Mohali, Sahibzada Ajit Singh (SAAS) Nagar district. Investigations revealed that Navdeep obtained the drugs from Gagandeep and Sandeep. Gagandeep was arrested on July 20 with 1.5 kg of heroin. Other involved individuals include Gurvinder Singh, Randeep Kaur, her husband Sohan Lal, Constable Gurmeet Singh, and Gulshan and Lovepreet Singh, who were found in possession of 30 grams of heroin. Further investigation is ongoing to unravel the full network.
Canada 18-Jul-2024
Canadian Prime Minister (PM) Justin Trudeau faced backlash this week for referring to singer Diljit Dosanjh as "Punjabi" instead of "Indian," exacerbating tensions over Khalistan extremism. This incident, alongside previous controversies, highlights Trudeau’s troubled political strategies and declining popularity ahead of federal elections. His actions, seen as pandering to extremist factions, have raised concerns about Canada's internal security, international relations, and his leadership.
India 18-Jul-2024
Police on July 18 thwarted potential targeted killings with the arrest of Vikramjit Singh, a member of the Khalistani terror outfit Babbar Khalsa International (BKI)-backed terror module and seized a .32 bore pistol along with two magazines, nine live cartridges, and one empty bullet shell from his possession, as well as his Royal Enfield motorcycle, near Chamrang Road in Amritsar district. Singh was allegedly operating under the direction of United States (US)-based terrorist Harpreet Singh alias Happy Passian, and his Italy-based associate Resham Singh. Further investigations are ongoing to uncover additional connections.
India 18-Jul-2024
The Punjab and Haryana High Court held that vehicles seized in drug cases can only be confiscated after the accused is proven guilty and dismissed the Narcotics Control Bureau's (NCB) petitions challenging the release of such vehicles on Supurdari. The court stated that vehicles should not deteriorate while awaiting trial and can be temporarily released on bonds, with confiscation applicable only after a guilty verdict is secured.
India 18-Jul-2024
Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)’s Punjab State Media Head, Vineet Joshi, addressed a press conference in Chandigarh on July 18, revealing that during the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) government’s 28-month tenure under Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann, at least 587 youths have officially died due to drug abuse, with actual numbers estimated between 2,000 and 2,500. He also criticized Mann's inaction, noting the lack of state-level anti-drug programs and advertisements during International Day against Drug Abuse events. Joshi highlighted the severe impact on diverse demographics and the rampant availability of drugs in Punjab, accusing the current administration of indirectly supporting drug traffickers.
India 18-Jul-2024
According to sources, the Punjab government plans to double the strength of the Punjab Police Special Task Force (STF) from 400 to 814 personnel to enhance its capability in combating the drug menace. This proposal, initiated by Punjab Director General of Police (DGP) Gaurav Yadav, aims to boost technical investigation skills within the STF. The new state-of-the-art STF Intelligence and Technical Unit (SITU) at the Punjab Police Intelligence Headquarters in Mohali, Sahibzada Ajit Singh (SAS) Nagar district, inaugurated by Yadav, features advanced technology and software for analyzing drug-related data. The initiative follows a ₹14.6 crore allocation earlier this year to augment the STF’s resources.
India 18-Jul-2024
The Punjab Police's Special Task Force (STF) arrested a constable of Punjab Police, Gurmeet Singh, and a woman, Navdeep Kaur, and seized 440 grams of heroin from their possession in Mauli Baidwan village in Sahibzada Ajit Singh (SAS) Nagar district. Both suspects were produced in court on July 18 and remanded to four-day police custody.
India 18-Jul-2024
The National Investigation Agency (NIA) on July 18 arrested a key aide of Canada-based Khalistani terrorist Lakhbir Singh Sandhu alias Landa, identified as Baljeet Singh alias Rana Bhai alias Balli, in Mohali in Sahibzada Ajit Singh (SAS) Nagar district. Singh, a major weapons supplier to Landa’s agents in Punjab, was involved in large-scale terror activities, including extortions from businessmen. The investigation, registered Suo motu on July 10, 2023, also linked Singh to another Khalistani terrorist, Satnam Singh Satta.
India 18-Jul-2024
India expressed strong displeasure to Canada regarding the upcoming Khalistan Referendum organized by the Khalistani outfit Sikhs For Justice (SFJ) on July 28 in Calgary, Alberta province in Canada, citing concerns about its venue being a public municipal facility.
India 19-Jul-2024
A court in New Delhi on July 19 reserved its order on whether to frame charges against Congress leader Jagdish Tytler in an anti-Sikh riots case where three people were killed. The court is expected to pronounce its decision on August 2. Tytler, previously granted anticipatory bail, faces charges including rioting, abetment, and murder.
India 19-Jul-2024
Haryana Chief Minister (CM) Nayab Singh Saini, on July 19, while addressing members of the Haryana Sikh Gurdwara Management Committee (HSGMC) at the camp office in Chandigarh, announced that Haryana is the first state to implement the Sant-Mahapurush Vichar Samman and Prasar Yojana, officially celebrating the anniversaries of Sikh Gurus and other great personalities. He emphasized the importance of preserving and teaching the principles of harmony, tolerance, and brotherhood taught by the Sikh Gurus and praised the bravery and sacrifices of the Sikh community in protecting their religion and contributing to India's freedom movement.
Pakistan 19-Jul-2024
According to the 2023 Population and Housing Census by the Pakistan Bureau of Statistics, the Hindu population in Pakistan increased from 3.5 million in 2017 to 3.8 million in 2023, although their share of the total population decreased from 1.73% to 1.61%. The Christian population grew from 2.6 million to 3.3 million, while the Sikh and Parsi populations were 15,998 and 2,348, respectively. Pakistan's total population rose from 207.68 million in 2017 to 240.46 million in 2023.
India 19-Jul-2024
Police on July 19 arrested two operatives of the Goldy Dhillon gang, identified as Navjot Singh alias Laddi and Jatin Kumar, in Rajpura, Patiala district of Punjab, solving a INR 50 lakh extortion case involving a Rajpura-based builder and financier. The police had previously arrested their associate Rahul Kumar. The gang is linked to U.S.-based gangster Goldy Brar and jailed gangster Lawrence Bishnoi. An FIR was registered against Dhillon and his associates, who had demanded ₹50 lakh from the builder. Dhillon, based in Germany, is also linked to other criminal activities and is on the National Investigation Agency’s (NIA) wanted list.
Italy 19-Jul-2024
The Anti-Gangster Task Force (AGTF) of the Rajasthan Police arrested an accomplice of notorious gangster Rohit Godara, identified as Amarjeet Singh Bishnoi, in Sicily, Italy. The arrest was facilitated through collaboration with the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) and the Union Ministry of Home Affairs (UMHA), leading to his detention by Italian authorities on July 8. Bishnoi had been evading capture since December 2022, following the murder of rival gangster Raju Theth by the Rohit Godara gang, and had been living in Italy without proper documents.
India 19-Jul-2024
Radical Khalistani preacher and chief of Waris Punjab De (WPD), Amritpal Singh, who is also a jailed Member of Parliament (MP), on July 19 moved the Punjab and Haryana High Court to quash proceedings against him under the National Security Act (NSA), including his detention orders. He argued that his detention under the NSA was illegal, violating his right to life and liberty, and was punitive for his vocal stance against the state and Central government. He contended that the grounds for his detention, based on social media posts, were insufficient to justify a security threat to Punjab or India. He is currently held at Dibrugarh Jail in Dibrugarh, Assam.
United States 19-Jul-2024
Indian-American Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi on July 19 denounced the “racist response” to Republican National Committeewoman Harmeet Dhillon’s recital of the Sikh prayer 'ardas' in the presence of the party’s presidential nominee Donald Trump, which took place on July 15 in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, in the United States (US).
United States 19-Jul-2024
Jake Sullivan, the United States (US) National Security Advisor (NSA), on July 19, while speaking at the Aspen Security Forum in Aspen, Colorado, stated that discussions with India regarding the alleged plot to assassinate Khalistani terrorist Gurpatwant Singh Pannun have been "respectful" and "effective." Sullivan highlighted the constructive and confidential nature of the dialogue, noting that the US has clearly communicated its stance to India, which has denied the allegations but is conducting an internal investigation. Additionally, he stressed the importance of deepening the US-India relationship, particularly in the Indo-Pacific region.
India 19-Jul-2024
Police on July 19 arrested seven individuals involved in a supari (contract) attack on a local shopkeeper, identified as Keshav Singh, Sushil Kumar, Babu Ram, Ashok Kumar, Sukhpreet Singh, Vikas Kumar, and Ashok Kumar, and seized one .32 pistol, five rounds, five daggers (dattars), and three motorcycles from the suspects' possession in Patiala, Patiala district.
India 20-Jul-2024
Former Member of Parliament (MP) Rajdev Singh Khalsa and legal counsel for jailed radical Khalistani preacher and MP from Khadur Sahib Amritpal Singh on July 20 proposed Khalistani militant Jarnail Singh Bhindranwale’s nephew, Jasbir Singh Rode, as the new president of the Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) during a function in Rode village in Moga district. Rajdev highlighted Rode's strong ties to the Khalsa Panth and the family's historical sacrifices, asserting that Rode's leadership is crucial for future electoral success in Punjab.
India 20-Jul-2024
The National Investigation Agency (NIA) on July 20 filed a charge sheet against 10 accused, including Canada-based terrorist Goldy Brar and his associates, before a special NIA court in Chandigarh. The investigation revealed their involvement in arms smuggling, narcotics trade, and targeting affluent businessmen who refused to pay extortion money.
India 20-Jul-2024
The anti-narcotics cell of the Punjab Police and the Border Security Force (BSF) on July 20 arrested four individuals identified as Jaswinder Singh alias Sonu, Amanpreet Singh, Gurjit Singh, and Gurwinder Singh, and seized 1.5 kg of heroin along with INR 8 lakh in drug money and a tractor and trailer from their possession near Abha Library in Abohar, Fazilka district.
India 20-Jul-2024
Police on July 20 announced the arrest of three individuals, including a woman drug peddler identified as Daljit Kaur, along with Gurbax, alias Lala, and Arshdeep Singh, and the seizure of 1 kg of ICE (methamphetamine), 2.45 kg of heroin, and 520 grams of precursor pseudoephedrine in Amritsar, Amritsar district. The police revealed that Daljit was arrested on July 16 with 50 grams of heroin, and based on her disclosure, Arshdeep Singh was arrested with 200 grams of heroin, and Gurbax, the kingpin of the racket, was arrested with 1 kg of ICE, over 2 kg of heroin, and 520 grams of precursor pseudoephedrine. Gurbax, who has five criminal cases against him and was out on bail since March 2024, was involved in sourcing precursor chemicals and manufacturing synthetic drugs.
India 21-Jul-2024
Speakers at a discussion chaired by National Minority Commission chairperson and Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader Iqbal Singh Lalpura on July 21 in Chandigarh called for a more inclusive Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC) and the need for reforms. Organized by the NCM in collaboration with the Global Punjabi Association, the event emphasized including Sehajdhari Sikhs in SGPC voting rights and focused on enhancing Dharam Parchar (religious discourse).
India 21-Jul-2024
Member of Parliament (MP) from Faridkot Sarabjit Singh Khalsa on July 21 announced that he would form a new party with jailed radical Khalistani preacher and fellow MP from Khadoor Sahib Amritpal Singh once Amritpal is released from jail. Khalsa also expressed confidence in securing at least nine seats in future elections. He criticized the current state of the Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) and indicated potential support from its members, aiming to address key issues and unify diverse groups in Punjab.
India 21-Jul-2024
Rajya Sabha (Upper house of Parliament) Members of Parliament (MPs) V Sivadasan and AA Rahim received a threat call on July 21 at the lounge of Indira Gandhi International Airport in New Delhi from a person claiming to be with the banned Khalistani outfit Sikhs For Justice (SFJ). The caller threatened to "bombard" areas of Delhi with the Khalistan referendum message. They informed Vice President and Rajya Sabha Chairman Jagdeep Dhankhar and lodged an official complaint with the Delhi Police.
India 21-Jul-2024
Gopalganj police on July 21 arrested two shooters of the Lawrence Bishnoi gang, identified as Kamal Rawat and Shantanu Shivam, and seized four Austrian pistols from their possession near the Bihar-Uttar Pradesh border close to Belthari village in Gopalganj district, Bihar. During interrogation, the shooters confessed to committing murders in Rajasthan and revealed the names of their handlers. They also had plans to target individuals in Muzaffarpur and Motihari. The police are conducting further interrogations and will present them in court for remand.
India 22-Jul-2024
Radical Khalistani preacher and jailed Member of Parliament (MP) Amritpal Singh's election from the Khadoor Sahib parliamentary constituency was challenged on July 22 by petitioner Vikramjit Singh in the Punjab and Haryana High Court. The challenge was based on grounds of concealment of required particulars in the affidavit, violation of election expenditure rules, and corrupt practices, including seeking votes on religious grounds and using religious places for campaigning.
India 22-Jul-2024
Police on July 22 arrested one unidentified person with sulfa drug, in Sangrur in Sangrur district.
India 22-Jul-2024
Police on July 22 arrested a person identified as Bhinderpal and seized an envelope containing 5 grams of heroin from his possession in Lehal Kalan village in Sangrur district.
India 22-Jul-2024
Akali Sudhar Lehar leaders Gurpartap Wadala and Jagir Kaur criticized the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) government on July 22 for failing to deliver justice in the 2018 sacrilege cases of Sri Guru Granth Sahib. They accused the government of not making timely appeals in the Supreme Court and not prosecuting the Dera Sacha Sauda leader. They announced a series of seminars on Sikh Rehat Maryada, starting on August 5 in Chandigarh, to address these issues and raise awareness.
United States 22-Jul-2024
Dr. Rajwant Singh, Chairman of the Sikh Council on Religion and Education (SCORE), welcomed Kamala Harris's candidacy for United States President on July 22 in Washington, DC. He praised President Joe Biden's endorsement and decision to step down. Singh highlighted Harris's leadership, her stance against hate crimes, and her support within the Sikh community in the US. He expressed confidence that Harris would gain widespread support and help change America's political direction.
India 22-Jul-2024
Police on July 22 froze illegal property worth INR 1.7 crores belonging to six drug smugglers in Jalandhar in Jalandhar district.
India 22-Jul-2024
Punjab Chief Minister (CM) Bhagwant Singh Mann on July 22 requested a special package of INR 1,32,247 crore from the 16th Finance Commission for the state's holistic development. He highlighted Punjab's contributions to food production and national defense and detailed the need for funds across various sectors, including agriculture, industry revitalization, and tackling drug abuse. Mann emphasized the state's unique challenges, such as narco-terrorism and water depletion, and urged the Commission to support Punjab's economic growth and sustainability initiatives.
Canada 22-Jul-2024
The BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir in Edmonton, Alberta was defaced on July 22 with anti-India graffiti, targeting Indian Prime Minister (PM) Narendra Modi and Canada MP Chandra Arya, who has been outspoken against Khalistan radicals in Canada. Following the incident, the Indian consulate in Vancouver requested a thorough investigation, and Arya urged Canadian authorities to address the rising threats against Hindu-Canadians.
Canada 23-Jul-2024
Hindu organizations expressed outrage on social media platform X on July 23, following the desecration of the BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir with anti-India graffiti on July 22 in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada. The Vishva Hindu Parishad (VHP) Canada denounced the Hinduphobic graffiti and called on Canadian authorities to take decisive action against the growing extremist threats to the Hindu community. The Hindu American Association (HAA) echoed these concerns, urging immediate investigation and vigilance.
United Kingdom 23-Jul-2024
United Kingdom (UK) Foreign Secretary David Lammy is set to begin a two-day visit to India on July 24, marking the first high-level engagement between the two countries since Prime Minister (PM) Keir Starmer's Labour government took office. Key discussions with Indian External Affairs Minister (EAM) S. Jaishankar and Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal will focus on the long-pending India-UK free trade agreement (FTA) and concerns over pro-Khalistan activities in the UK.
United Kingdom 23-Jul-2024
According to sources, the family of Khalistani terrorist Jagtar Singh Johal, who is accused of multiple crimes including targeted killings and funding the Khalistan Liberation Force (KLF), has urged United Kingdom (UK) Foreign Secretary David Lammy to address Johal's case during trade talks with India.
India 23-Jul-2024
Member of Parliament (MP) from Faridkot and son of Beant Singh, one of the assassins of the late Prime Minister (PM) Indira Gandhi, Sarabjeet Singh Khalsa, called for the creation of a new Panthic outfit in Punjab on July 23 in New Delhi. He plans to discuss this initiative with radical Khalistani preacher and Khadoor Sahib MP Amritpal Singh, who is currently jailed under the National Security Act (NSA) in Assam. Citing voter support for himself and Amritpal, Khalsa criticized existing Sikh political groups like the Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) for failing to provide effective leadership and intends to contest the upcoming Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC) elections.
India 23-Jul-2024
Punjab Governor Banwarilal Purohit met with members of Village Defence Committees (VDC) and residents of the border area in the Bamyal sector of Pathankot district on July 23. During his visit, he praised the VDC's dedication and stressed the need for enhanced vigilance to tackle the drug crisis and bolster border security.
Canada 24-Jul-2024
Khalistani terrorist and chief of the banned Khalistani outfit Sikhs For Justice (SFJ), Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, via a video on July 24, called for Hindus in Canada, including Liberal Member of Parliament (MP) Chandra Arya, to return to India, accusing them of working against Canadian values. He specifically targeted Arya, accusing him and his supporters of promoting Indian interests and violence against pro-Khalistan Sikhs. Pannun insisted that only Khalistani Sikhs have proven loyalty to Canada, while labeling those like Arya as unwelcome.
Canada 24-Jul-2024
Hindu-Canadian Member of Parliament (MP) Chandra Arya, via a statement on social media site X on July 24, criticized Khalistani extremists for 'polluting' Canada and 'abusing' the freedoms guaranteed by the Canadian Charter of Rights, in response to a video posted by Khalistani terrorist and chief of the banned Khalistani terror outfit Sikhs For Justice (SFJ), Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, targeting him. Arya's comments followed the recent vandalism of the BAPS Swaminarayan Mandir in Edmonton, Canada, by Khalistani radicals with anti-India graffiti. He emphasized the contributions of Hindu Canadians to the country and condemned the actions of those promoting hate and violence.
India 24-Jul-2024
Actor Manjot Singh, known for his comedic roles in films like Fukrey and Dream Girl, expressed his desire to break stereotypes about Sikh actors in the industry. Highlighting the success of Diljit Dosanjh, Singh emphasized that Sikhs should not be typecast into light-hearted roles and can portray serious characters as well. He shared his personal journey of challenging the industry's perceptions and his satisfaction with the positive reception of his recent authoritative role in Wild Wild Punjab.
India 24-Jul-2024
Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) chief Sukhbir Singh Badal on July 24 submitted a written explanation to Akal Takht Jathedar Giani Raghbir Singh, addressing allegations made by rebel SAD leaders, in person at the Akal Takht in Amritsar, Punjab. The rebel SAD leaders had accused Badal of various failures during his tenure as Deputy Chief Minister, including mishandling the 2007 blasphemy case against Gurmeet Ram Rahim Singh, the Bargari sacrilege case, and police firings in Kotkapura and Behbal Kalan. The Akal Takht had summoned Badal for clarification, asserting that he did not represent Panthic sentiments.
India 24-Jul-2024
Punjab Police and Army personnel conducted a search operation in Pathankot district on July 24 after a woman reported seeing seven suspicious men in Fangtoli village. A sketch of one suspect was released, and authorities maintained a high alert.
India 24-Jul-2024
Punjab Governor Banwarilal Purohit announced cash prizes for drug-free villages on July 24 in Amritsar, while emphasizing the need for strict action against drug smugglers and peddlers following his visit to the state's border districts. Purohit also addressed the issue of drug and weapon smuggling from Pakistan, urging public vigilance and cooperation. He highlighted the importance of securing border districts, including Pathankot, Gurdaspur, and Amritsar, and praised the coordination between security agencies in combating the drug menace.
India 24-Jul-2024
A team from the Wahabwala police station on July 24 arrested a drug peddler identified as Navneet Garg and seized 20 kg of poppy husk from his possession in Abohar, Fazilka district. The police revealed that the poppy husk was smuggled from Sadulshehar in Sriganganagar district, Rajasthan.
India 24-Jul-2024
The Crime Investigation Agency (CIA-1) of the Police on July 24 arrested three drug peddlers, identified as Gurpreet Singh alias Gopi, Kuljinder Singh and Jodhbir Singh alias Jodha, and seized 500 grams of heroin and .32 bore pistol from their possession, in Amritsar in Amritsar district.
India 24-Jul-2024
Gate Hakima police on July 24 arrested a drug peddler, identified as Abhishek Kumar and seized 508 grams of heroin from his possession in Amritsar in Amritsar district.
India 24-Jul-2024
The Police on July 24 arrested a drug peddler, identified as Sukhdev Singh alias Manga and seized 567 grams of heroin from his possession in Chheharta Sahib in Amritsar district.
India 24-Jul-2024
According to reports, Bollywood actor Salman Khan has informed the police that he believes the Lawrence Bishnoi gang was responsible for a firing incident at his residence in April, which was intended to kill him and his family. In his statement, Khan recounted hearing a gunshot-like sound and learning from his bodyguard about the attack. The gang later confessed to the attack on social media, and Khan noted previous threats and attempts against his family. The Mumbai Police's charge sheet, now under court review, includes six accused: Vickykumar Gupta, Sagarkumar Pal, Sonukumar Bishnoi, Anujkumar Thapan (now deceased), Mohd Rafiq Choudhary, and Harpal Singh, with Anujkumar having committed suicide in custody.
India 24-Jul-2024
Punjab Governor Banwarilal Purohit, on July 24 in Amritsar, expressed concern over frequent drone intrusions from across the border used for drug and arms smuggling and announced that anti-drone technology will be deployed along the Pakistan border within a year. Additionally, he proposed setting up a special panel of lawyers for drug cases and offered rewards for those who assist in capturing drones.
Pakistan 24-Jul-2024
The Cabinet of the Pakistan government introduced visa-on-arrival privileges on July 24 for Sikhs holding passports from countries other than India and waived visa fees for travelers from 126 nations. This initiative aims to boost tourism and generate revenue, specifically targeting Sikh pilgrims visiting historic gurdwaras in Pakistan.
India 25-Jul-2024
Member of Parliament (MP) Charanjit Singh Channi on July 25 caused controversy by expressing support for radical Khalistani preacher and MP Amritpal Singh, currently imprisoned under the National Security Act (NSA), during a Lok Sabha speech in New Delhi. This remark stirred significant political tension. Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) Union Minister Giriraj Singh criticized Channi's remarks, calling it an attack on India's integrity and questioning Congress's stance on Khalistan sympathizers. Punjab Chief Minister (CM) Bhagwant Mann and BJP spokesperson Shehzad Poonawalla demanded the Congress clarify its position on Amritpal Singh. The Congress distanced itself from Channi's views, clarifying they do not reflect the party's stance.
India 25-Jul-2024
Spokesperson of the Indian Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) Randhir Jaiswal, while addressing the media in New Delhi on July 25, criticized Canada's response to threats against Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, highlighting a perceived double standard in handling threats from pro-Khalistan elements against Indian leaders. Jaiswal called for equivalent action against threats targeting Indian diplomats and institutions, condemning the recent vandalism of a temple in Edmonton, Canada, and urging Canadian authorities to address the rising incidents of extremism and violence to uphold the rule of law and respect for pluralism.
Canada 25-Jul-2024
Indo-Canadian community organizations, such as the Coalition of Hindus of North America (CHNA), the Canada National Alliance for Indo-Canadians (NAIC), and the Hindu Canadian Foundation (HCF), have urged Canadian politicians to stop supporting Khalistani separatists following recent threats against Hindu-Canadian Member of Parliament (MP) Chandra Arya by the banned Khalistani outfit Sikhs For Justice (SFJ). These organizations condemned the recent vandalism of a Hindu temple in Edmonton and expressed concern over the safety of Hindu-Canadians, criticizing the perceived inaction of Canadian authorities against extremism. They called for greater protection and respect for the community within Canada.
India 25-Jul-2024
The Congress party distanced itself from remarks made by Member of Parliament (MP) Charanjit Singh Channi on July 25 regarding radical Khalistani preacher and jailed MP Amritpal Singh, where he criticized Amritpal’s arrest under the National Security Act (NSA) as an ‘undeclared emergency’ by the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) government during a Lok Sabha session in New Delhi. Congress labelled Charanjit’s views as his personal views and not representative of the party's stance.
United States 25-Jul-2024
Harmeet Dhillon, a conservative activist who faced criticism from some conservative Christians after delivering a Sikh prayer at the Republican National Convention (RNC) in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, recently defended her actions by emphasizing that the Republican Party is inclusive and welcoming to people of all faiths, including her own, while speaking to The Christian Post. She stated that her intention was to show that Sikhs and their beliefs are welcome within the party. Critics online labelled her prayer to Waheguru, the Sikh name for God, as incompatible with Christian beliefs, while Dhillon argued that Waheguru is the same God worshipped by all monotheistic religions.
India 25-Jul-2024
In Punjab, a civilian movement against drugs has gained momentum, with 2,439 villages passing resolutions to fight the drug menace. This initiative, supported by the Punjab Police, follows a spate of drug-related deaths in the state. Banners and community meetings are being organized in villages to discourage drug use and report suspects to authorities. The state's Health Minister, Dr. Balbir Singh, noted that around 10 lakh people in Punjab are addicted, with a significant number using heroin.
India 25-Jul-2024
A court on July 25 granted bail to Harpreet Singh Happy, the brother of radical Khalitani preacher and jailed Member of Parliament (MP) Amritpal Singh in Phillaur in Jalandhar district.
India 25-Jul-2024
An anti-narcotics cell team of the police on July 25 recovered 220 kg of poppy husk from a canter in Abohar, Fazilka district. The police revealed that the canter had entered Abohar from Sadulshahar in Rajasthan.
India 25-Jul-2024
The Police on July 25 arrested four individuals, identified as Dimple Kumar, Sukhbir Singh, Gurbalraj Singh alias Fauji, and Arshdeep alias Arsh Singh, and seized 525 grams of heroin from their possession in Panjawa Mandal village in Abohar in Fazilka district.