KHALISTAN EXTREMISM MONITOR
A project of the Institute for Conflict Management
A project of the Institute for Conflict Management
India 05-Sep-2024
The Crime Investigating Agency (CIA) staff of Mohali police on September 5 arrested three individuals, identified as Amandeep Singh, Harmandeep Singh, and Gursevak Singh, and seized 80 grams of heroin from their possession in Kharar in Sahibzada Ajit Singh (SAS) Nagar district.
Canada 05-Sep-2024
On September 5, a fire broke out at a property adjacent to the residence of Khalistani terrorist and chief of the banned outfit Sikhs For Justice (SFJ), Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, causing extensive damage to luxury cars and resulting in losses exceeding CAD 500,000 in Oakville in Ontario province in Canada. Local authorities are investigating whether the fire was a case of mistaken targeting.
India 05-Sep-2024
Police on September 5 arrested one person, identified as Rama Singh and seized 200 grams of heroin from his possession, in Janta Colony in Ludhiana in Ludhiana district.
India 05-Sep-2024
Ludhiana police on September 5 arrested an individual, identified as Mohit and seized 150 grams of heroin from his possession, in Vijay Nagar in Ludhiana in Ludhiana district.
India 05-Sep-2024
The Indian government on September 5 repatriated 14 Pakistani prisoners, including two juveniles, after they completed their sentences, at the Attari-Wagah border in Amritsar district, Punjab. Six were released from Central Jail Amritsar, while eight were freed from a jail in Gujarat. Most of the prisoners were fishermen who had inadvertently crossed into Indian waters, with some urging both governments to expedite the release of detained fishermen. Among those repatriated were four cross-border smugglers arrested for drug and arms possession.
India 06-Sep-2024
Amritsar (Rural) Police on September 6 arrested three drug peddlers, identified as Lovepreet Singh, Jasbir Singh, and Jaskaran Singh, and seized 2.7 kg of heroin from their possession in Dhariwal village, Ajnala, Amritsar district. The police stated that the heroin was likely smuggled via drones from Pakistan, and shifting police checkpoints led to the recovery. The suspects are currently under police remand, and their properties will be identified and frozen.
India 06-Sep-2024
Amritsar (Rural) Police on September 6 launched a probe into an extortion case involving Portugal-based gangster Manpreet Singh alias Mann Ghanshampuria, and his accomplice Jobanjit Singh, who demanded INR 50 lakh from a local resident with threats of violence in Amritsar district, Punjab. This case is part of a broader pattern of intimidation by the gang, which includes recent extortion threats and shootings. Earlier arrests related to the gang led to the seizure of weapons, mobile phones, a vehicle, and INR 18,000 in cash. The gang is also wanted for various criminal activities, including a fatal shooting in Lakhowal village, Ajnala, Amritsar district.
India 06-Sep-2024
According to a report by The Print, two-thirds of Afghan Sikhs who fled to India after the Taliban takeover in 2021 have now resettled in Canada, with private sponsors and Sikh foundations assisting in their relocation. Out of 350 refugees, approximately 230 have successfully moved to Canada, while others await their visas. The Khalsa Diwan Welfare Society in Delhi has coordinated this process, and organizations like the Manmeet Singh Bhullar Foundation have provided support through stipends and amenities for one year. Many Afghan Sikhs continue to work menial jobs in India while awaiting resettlement.
India 06-Sep-2024
Punjabi actor Gippy Grewal called for a Sikh representative on the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) to ensure accurate depictions of the Sikh community and its religious aspects in films. This appeal follows the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee's (SGPC) push for Sikh representation, particularly after delays in clearing Kangana Ranaut's controversial film Emergency. Gippy emphasized the need for specialized knowledge to review religious nuances in films and shared his own practice of obtaining a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from religious authorities for his projects.
India 06-Sep-2024
The Sikh Research Institute (SikhRI) recently released its tenth report in the "State of the Panth" series, titled Caste & Race, which explores caste and race issues from a Sikh perspective. Based on a global survey of Sikhs, the report highlights that the majority view Sikhism as inherently anti-caste and anti-racist. In an interview with Hindustan Times, Harinder Singh, SikhRI’s Senior Fellow, stated that the report emphasizes the disconnect between Sikh ideals and practices regarding caste and race. He called for renewed efforts within the Sikh community to align more closely with the Gurus' teachings on equality, stressing the importance of both individual and institutional action to address these social issues.
India 06-Sep-2024
The Crime Investigation Agency (CIA) staff of the Mohali police on September 6 arrested two men, identified as Channpreet Singh and Harpal Singh, and seized 30 grams of heroin from their possession in Kharar, Sahibzada Ajit Singh (SAS) Nagar district.
India 07-Sep-2024
According to sources, nearly five months after the firing outside Salman Khan’s Bandra residence, Mumbai police have yet to gain access to gangster Lawrence Bishnoi, who is currently held at Sabarmati prison in Gujarat. The Union Ministry of Home Affairs’ (UMHA) restriction on his movement under Section 268 of the Criminal Procedure Code (CrPC) has prevented the police from obtaining his custody. The police aim to interrogate Bishnoi to understand his gang's operations, as he remains a key suspect in the attack claimed by his gang. Attempts to secure his custody have been unsuccessful so far, with restrictions set to lift in August 2024.
India 07-Sep-2024
Police on September 7 arrested a close aide of jailed gangster Lawrence Bishnoi, identified as Javed Jhinjha alias Rativ, in Abohar in Fazilka district. Jhinjha, who had studied with Bishnoi and was wanted in multiple cases across Punjab, Rajasthan, and Chandigarh.
India 07-Sep-2024
Police on September 7 arrested an individual, identified as Paramjit Singh and seized 50 grams of heroin from his possession, near Mardkhera village in Sangrur district.
India 07-Sep-2024
Raj Singh, founder of Sikh Helpline, raised concerns in a letter to the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) on September 7 about the upcoming film Emergency, directed by Kangana Ranaut. He criticized the film's portrayal of Sant Jarnail Singh Bhindranwale as historically inaccurate and offensive, claiming it falsely depicts him as colluding with Indira Gandhi for political gain. Singh urged the CBFC to review the film with Sikh experts, edit the offensive content, and ensure future films accurately represent all communities to maintain peace and harmony in society.
India 07-Sep-2024
The Haryana Sikh Ekta Dal (HSED) is set to convene on September 8 in Chandigarh to unite Sikhs across political and caste lines, advocating for a law against sacrilege, the release of Bandi Singhs, and improved representation of Sikhs in Haryana's electoral process. They will also call for the removal of political interference in the state's Gurdwara body, elections for the Haryana Sikh Gurdwara Management Committee (HSGMC), and the formation of SITs to investigate religious hate crimes. The group has urged political parties to address these issues in their manifestos ahead of the assembly polls.
India 07-Sep-2024
In a joint operation with Border Security Force (BSF) troops, Punjab Police on September 7 busted a trans-border drug module by arresting four smugglers, identified as Kuldeep Singh, Kirpal Singh, Jatinder Singh, and Gurpreet Singh, and seized 5.54 kg of heroin from their possession in Sahowal village, Ajnala, Amritsar district. The arrests followed a BSF tip-off about a suspected drone drop from Pakistan.
Canada 08-Sep-2024
Halton Regional Police indicated that the fire, which broke out on September 5 at a property adjacent to the residence of Khalistani terrorist and chief of the banned outfit Sikhs for Justice (SFJ), Gurpatwant Singh Pannun in Oakville, Ontario, Canada, was likely caused by faulty wiring and was not deemed suspicious.
India 08-Sep-2024
According to sources, Kangana Ranaut's film Emergency received a U/A certificate from the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) after making a few cuts and adding disclaimers, though the release date remains unfinalized. The film, which portrays former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi and the 1975 Emergency, has faced backlash from Sikh organizations.
India 08-Sep-2024
On September 8, Amritsar Rural Police were put on alert following a bomb threat targeting the Tarsikka police station in Tarsikka village, Amritsar district. The caller, later identified as a jail inmate, made the threat from inside prison. Police stated that a case has been registered, and the inmate will be brought on a production warrant for further investigation. Jail authorities have also been alerted to recover the phone used for the call.
India 08-Sep-2024
The Crime Investigation Agency (CIA) staff of Amritsar rural police on September 8 arrested five cross-border smugglers, identified as Sukhchain Singh, Sukhpal Singh, Navdeep Singh, Sukhbir Singh, and Rahul, alias Nikku and seized 160 grams of heroin, two pistols—a .32 bore pistol without a magazine and a .30 bore pistol without a magazine and barrel—along with INR 8.5 lakh in drug money, a car, and a bike from their possession near Khurmania village in Amritsar district. According to police, most of the heroin smuggled from Pakistan via drones had already been sold prior to the arrests.
India 08-Sep-2024
Police on September 8 arrested two members of the Lawrence Bishnoi gang, identified as Rohit Kumar and Sukhpal Singh, and seized four .32-bore pistols and 26 live cartridges from their possession near Sanouri Adda in Patiala district.
India 08-Sep-2024
The Patiala Crime Investigation Agency (CIA) staff on September 8 arrested a member of the Rajiv Raja gang, identified as Yashraj alias Kaka and seized two .32-bore pistols and 14 live cartridges from his possession, near Deer Park on Patiala-Dakala Road in Patiala in Patiala district.
India 09-Sep-2024
Amritsar City Police on September 9 arrested five individuals linked to gangster Goldy Brar, identified as Harshdeep Singh, Gursharanpreet Singh, Dharampreet Singh, Manga Singh, and Avtar Singh, in Amritsar in Amritsar district. The arrests revealed that the gang, operating under Goldy Brar’s instructions, was involved in extortion and ransom demands. The police discovered that Brar’s associates, Deva and Pritam Singh, are currently abroad using forged documents. Investigations are ongoing, including raids in Haryana to apprehend additional suspects.
India 09-Sep-2024
The Anti-Gangster Task Force (AGTF) of the Punjab Police on September 9 announced that it has dismantled 505 gangs and modules in the state over the past two-and-a-half years (2022–2024). During this period, they neutralized 16 gangsters in 107 encounters, recovering 1,332 weapons and 293 vehicles. Additionally, 81 gangsters were injured in encounters, while three police personnel lost their lives and 26 others were injured. The AGTF also blocked 203 social media accounts promoting gang-related content.
India 09-Sep-2024
Police on September 9 arrested three persons, identified as Gurmeet Singh, Roshan Lal and Ajay Kumar and seized five pistols and two magazines from their possession, in Faridkot in Faridkot district. The accused were involved in smuggling weapons from Madhya Pradesh (MP). Roshan Lal had 14 prior cases, Ajay Kumar faced charges of snatching and weapon possession, and Gurmeet Singh had pending cases related to drug and weapon smuggling. The arrests followed the recovery of weapons abandoned in a briefcase after a police chase near Tehna village in Faridkot district last week.
India 09-Sep-2024
Punjab Police on September 9 conducted a special operation, ‘OPS Seal-VIII,’ across ten inter-state border districts, including Pathankot, Muktsar, Fazilka, Ropar, Sahibzada Ajit Singh (SAS) Nagar, Patiala, Sangrur, Mansa, Hoshiarpur, and Bathinda, aimed at cracking down on drug trafficking and liquor smuggling. The operation led to the recovery of over 71 kg of narcotics, including 1.1 kg of opium, 29 kg of poppy husk, 42 kg of intoxicant powder, and 1,070 intoxicating tablets, along with a significant amount of illicit liquor. A total of 4,245 vehicles were checked, 293 fined, 16 impounded, 26 First Information Reports (FIRs) registered, and 27 individuals arrested.
India 09-Sep-2024
The Border Security Force (BSF) troops on September 9 recovered two packets of heroin weighing 1.180 kg, from farming fields near Daoke village in Amritsar district.
India 09-Sep-2024
According to sources in Central Intelligence agencies, Canada-based Khalistani terrorist Lakhbir Singh Sandhu alias Landa, and Pakistan-based gangster-turned-terrorist Harvinder Singh Sandhu alias Rinda, have parted ways. Rinda has now partnered with Harpreet Singh alias Happy Passia, who operates from the United States (US), to raise terror modules in Punjab. Between August 2023 and August 30, 2024, Punjab Police busted eight terror modules and arrested 35 individuals linked to the Rinda-Passia network. Landa, residing in Edmonton, Canada, is wanted for his involvement in the 2022 Rocket Propelled Grenade attack on the Punjab State Intelligence Headquarters in Mohali. Rinda, associated with the terrorist organization Babbar Khalsa International (BKI), is currently based in Lahore, Pakistan, under the patronage of cross-border agencies and has been involved in various terrorist activities, particularly in Punjab. Officials noted that Landa and Rinda are no longer collaborating due to differing motives—Landa is more focused on supporting pro-Khalistani activities in India, while Rinda is primarily involved in drug peddling and arms distribution.
United States 10-Sep-2024
On September 10, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi sparked controversy by stating, 'The fight in India is whether a Sikh will be allowed to wear a turban and kada, and go to a gurdwara,' during an event in Washington, DC, United States (US). Union Minister Hardeep Singh Puri condemned Gandhi’s remarks, stating that his language echoed that of Khalistani separatist Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, a fugitive wanted on terror charges. Puri questioned whether Gandhi was in contact with Pannun. Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) spokesperson Shehzad Poonawalla accused the Congress party of aligning with terrorists, criticizing Gandhi’s statement as an attempt to gain support from foreign terrorist organizations while lacking domestic backing.
India 10-Sep-2024
Khalistani terrorist and chief of the banned outfit Sikhs For Justice (SFJ), Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, on September 10 endorsed Congress leader Rahul Gandhi's statement that 'the fight in India is whether a Sikh will be allowed to wear a turban, kada, or go to a gurdwara.' Pannun called Rahul's remark on the 'existential threat to Sikhs in India' bold and pioneering, claiming it was grounded in the factual history of Sikh struggles since 1947. He further stated that Gandhi’s comments aligned with SFJ's stance on the Punjab Independence Referendum for the creation of an independent Khalistan.
India 10-Sep-2024
Bathinda Member of Parliament (MP) and senior Shiromani Akali Dal leader Harsimrat Badal, on September 10, via social media platform X, criticized Rahul Gandhi for his remarks about Sikhs feeling unsafe in India. She asserted that both the Congress and Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) are guilty of crimes against Sikhs and demanded that Rahul apologize for his grandmother Indira Gandhi’s actions in 1984, including the attack on Shri Harmandar Sahib and the Akal Takht. Without such an apology, Badal questioned his moral right to speak on Sikh issues.
India 10-Sep-2024
In Mansa district, Punjab, vigilante groups and self-appointed drug-monitoring committees, such as the Nasha Roko Committee, are combating the growing misuse of pregabalin, a painkiller commonly abused for its euphoric effects. Pregabalin, also known as 'Signature,' has replaced heroin as a popular drug among the youth. These vigilantes search vehicles, seize drugs, and dispense their own form of justice, reflecting public frustration with the government’s slow response. Despite bans and police crackdowns, pregabalin addiction continues to rise, impacting families and communities, with local figures like Parminder Singh 'Jhotha' leading the fight.
United States 10-Sep-2024
Congress leader Rahul Gandhi on September 10 attended an event in Herndon, Virginia, United States (US), where pro-Khalistani elements from Baba Makhan Shah Gurdwara, known for supporting anti-India protests, were present. During the event, Gandhi sparked controversy by stating, 'The fight in India is whether a Sikh will be allowed to wear a turban and kada, and go to a gurdwara.'
India 10-Sep-2024
Uttarakhand Police on September 10 detained a youth for writing "Pakke Khalistani" on his bike's number plate, in Rudrapur in Uttarakhand. The youth, a resident of Bareilly in Uttar Pradesh (UP), was interrogated by both the police and the Intelligence Bureau (IB). After being issued a challan, he was counselled and released.
India 10-Sep-2024
The Crime Investigation Agency (CIA) staff of the Jalandhar Commissionerate Police on September 10 arrested an individual identified as Shinda Singh and seized 1 kg of heroin and INR 4 lakh in cash from his possession near the Green Park area in Jalandhar district. The police are interrogating him to trace the source of the heroin and uncover details of his drug trafficking network.
India 10-Sep-2024
On September 10, Akal Takht Jathedar Giani Raghbir Singh in Amritsar condemned the growing trend of creating social media accounts, particularly on TikTok, under Sikh and Muslim disguises to spread hateful propaganda and incite religious conflicts. He stated that such actions are part of a conspiracy by anti-social elements and urged Sikhs to remain vigilant and respect other religions.
India 10-Sep-2024
Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC) president Harjinder Singh Dhami, on September 10 in New Delhi, urged the Akal Takht Jathedar to take strict action against Iqbal Singh Lalpura, chairman of the National Commission for Minorities, for his recent remarks in which he distorted Sikh principles by calling Guru Nanak an avatar of Vishnu. Dhami called the statement disrespectful to Sikh ideology and demanded action in accordance with Panthic traditions.
India 11-Sep-2024
According to reports, Punjab, once known for its vibrancy and resilience, has faced a troubling surge in extortion threats and violence linked to gangsters operating from abroad. Kalwinder Singh, a vocal critic of Canadian-based gangsters, received intimidating calls for two years, forcing him to remove critical videos from Facebook. Since January 2024, the Punjab Police’s Anti-Gangster Task Force (ATGF) has received over 200 complaints related to extortion calls, mostly traced to gang leaders in Canada, resulting in 172 First Information Reports (FIRs) and 174 arrests. Notable incidents include a shooting in Amritsar and attacks in Vancouver, Canada, and Ferozepur, Punjab. Despite measures like deportations and extraditions, the number of extortion calls in Punjab has sharply risen since the assassination of singer Sidhu Moose Wala in May 2022, with local recruitment by criminals further complicating law enforcement efforts.
India 11-Sep-2024
Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD-Delhi) president Paramjit Singh Sarna on September 11 met with Akal Takht Jathedar Giani Raghbir Singh in Amritsar, Punjab, to address the ongoing crisis within the SAD. Sarna urged the Jathedar to hold former Akali leaders accountable for switching to the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and supporting the controversial Dera Sirsa cult. He also expressed support for Rahul Gandhi’s remarks on protecting religious rights in India, citing issues such as Sikh students being forced to remove religious symbols.
India 11-Sep-2024
Two unidentified men on an autorickshaw hurled an explosive at a house in the Sector 10 area of Chandigarh on September 11. No injuries were reported, but the explosion caused minor damage to the property. Police suspect the target was former Punjab Police Superintendent of Police (SP) Jaskirat Singh, with potential involvement from Pakistan-based Khalistan terrorist Harwinder Singh Sandhu alias Rinda. A National Investigation Agency (NIA) team has also joined the investigation.
India 11-Sep-2024
Simranjit Singh Mann, chief of Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD-Amritsar) and former Member of Parliament (MP), on September 11 in Chandigarh, accused the Narendra Modi-led government of stifling democracy in India and blamed the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC) under Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD-Badal) for a lack of transparency. He highlighted the killings of Khalistani terrorists Hardeep Singh Nijjar and Paramjit Singh Panjwar and criticized the SGPC for not holding general elections in years and for the mismanagement of 328 swaroops of Guru Granth Sahib.
India 11-Sep-2024
The Border Security Force (BSF), in a joint operation with Punjab Police on September 11, intercepted and neutralized a drone, recovering one packet of heroin weighing 6.23 kg along with the drone on the outskirts of Gilpan village in Tarn Taran district. The recovered drone was an assembled quadcopter.
India 11-Sep-2024
Border Security Force (BSF) troops on September 11 recovered a packet of heroin weighing 520 grams from near Daoke village in Amritsar district.
India 11-Sep-2024
Border Security Force (BSF) troops on September 11 recovered a China made drone- DJI Mavic 3 Classic model, from the outskirts of Kahangarh village in Amritsar district.
India 11-Sep-2024
The Kendri Singh Sabha, a central body of Singh Sabha Gurdwara, on September 11 in Chandigarh, praised Rahul Gandhi for supporting the Sikh community's right to uphold their religious and cultural freedoms in India.
India 12-Sep-2024
Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) Information Technology (IT) Chief Amit Malviya, via the social media site X on September 12, linked Congress leader Rahul Gandhi's recent comments in the United States (US) to a grenade blast in Chandigarh, accusing Gandhi of making 'false and misleading' statements about Sikhs' rights in India. The explosion, caused by a grenade thrown at a house in Chandigarh, is under investigation, with suspected involvement from Pakistan-based Khalistani terrorist Harwinder Singh Sandhu alias Rinda.
India 12-Sep-2024
On September 12, during a raid by the Crime Investigation Agency (CIA) staff of the Police, drug smugglers identified as Madan Lal, Vijay, and Rohit opened fire on the police but were later arrested, and the .32 bore weapon used in the crime was recovered from their possession near Dhandran village in Ludhiana district. Two people, constable Sandeep and suspect Rohit, were injured during the raid. The operation was conducted after the police received information about a drug nexus in nearby Mehmoodpur village in Ludhiana West tehsil, Ludhiana district.
India 12-Sep-2024
The recovery of 11 Glock pistols among 29 illegal firearms seized by Punjab Police in August 2024 has raised concerns over sophisticated, foreign-made weapons reaching criminals in the state. The Punjab Anti-Gangster Task Force (AGTF), in collaboration with central agencies, busted Pakistan-backed arms smuggling networks, recovering several Glock pistols, including one marked 'Made for NATO Army.' Between January and July 2023, Punjab Police recovered 2,608 illegal weapons, including 1,515 pistols, underscoring the growing challenge of cross-border weapon smuggling via drones.
India 12-Sep-2024
In a Facebook post on September 12, US-based terrorist Harpreet Singh alias Happy Passian, claimed responsibility for the September 11 blast in Chandigarh. Passian is known to be associated with Pakistan-based Khalistani terrorist Harwinder Singh Sandhu alias Rinda. CCTV footage identified Rohan Masih, who has a criminal record, as one of the suspects. The attack is believed to be revenge for the 1986 Nakodar firing, in which retired Punjab Police Assistant Inspector General (AIG) Jaskirat Singh Chahal was involved. Chahal had previously lived in the targeted house but moved out after surviving an assassination plot in 2023.
India 12-Sep-2024
According to data obtained by The Tribune, between January 1 and August 31, 2024, the Punjab Police took action against 10 officers for lapses in drug-related cases under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act, which led to the grant of default bail to 15 drug peddlers. These officers, from districts such as Faridkot, Jalandhar, and Hoshiarpur, failed to appear in court as witnesses or for cross-examination. The state government had previously directed strict action against officials neglecting court appearances in NDPS cases, with a district-level committee now monitoring trial progress and reporting failures to the government.
India 13-Sep-2024
The Police State Special Operation Cell (SSOC), in coordination with central agencies, arrested the second suspect in the Chandigarh blast case, identified as Vishal Masih, in Delhi on September 13. He was produced before a court and remanded to police custody until September 20.
India 13-Sep-2024
In a joint operation with central agencies and the Punjab Police on September 13 solved the Chandigarh grenade blast case with the arrest of one of the main perpetrators, identified as Rohan Masih, in Amritsar district. Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI)-backed Babbar Khalsa International (BKI) terrorist Harwinder Singh alias Rinda, and US-based Harpreet Singh alias Happy Passia, were identified as the masterminds behind the attack. The grenade used in the incident was smuggled across the border via drones with the assistance of the ISI. Investigations are ongoing to apprehend the remaining suspects.
India 13-Sep-2024
The National Investigation Agency (NIA) on September 13 conducted raids at three locations in Amritsar, including the residence of Pargat Singh Sandhu, a relative of radical Khalistani preacher and Member of Parliament (MP) Amritpal Singh, who is currently detained in Dibrugarh jail in Assam under the National Security Act (NSA). Raids were also reported in Moga, with the operation following a successful gathering held by Amritpal's supporters on August 19.
India 13-Sep-2024
The police on September 13 arrested an individual identified as Kulwinder in connection with the death of a first-year M.Tech student from the National Institute of Technology (NIT) in Hoshiarpur district, Punjab. The police revealed that Kulwinder had connections with drug smugglers and was linked to a de-addiction centre involved in the drug trade.
India 13-Sep-2024
The Border Security Force (BSF) on September 13 recovered a packet of heroin weighing 6.8 kg from near Gilpan village in Tarn Taran district.
India 13-Sep-2024
The Border Security Force (BSF) on September 13 set up a special ambush in Dal village in Tarn Taran district after noticing suspicious movement by two individuals on a motorcycle, recovering one phone and Indian currency in INR 200 denominations after the suspects fled.
India 13-Sep-2024
The Border Security Force (BSF), in a joint operation with the Punjab Police on September 13, recovered a packet containing 581 grams of heroin wrapped in yellow adhesive tape from a house in Dal village, Tarn Taran district.
India 13-Sep-2024
The Indian National Congress (INC) on September 13 called for a First Information Report (FIR) to be filed against Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader Manjinder Singh Marwah for allegedly threatening Rahul Gandhi over his remarks about the Sikh community during his United States (US) visit. Marwah was recorded saying, “Rahul Gandhi, refrain from such things, or you’ll meet the same fate as your grandmother.” The Congress also demanded a reassessment of Gandhi's security, citing his Cabinet-level status as Leader of the Opposition.
India 13-Sep-2024
Punjab Police, in coordination with central agencies, on September 13 successfully brought back and arrested fugitive Amritpal Singh from Austria to face charges for numerous heinous crimes, including murder and drug offenses, at Indira Gandhi International (IGI) Airport in New Delhi, where he was taken into custody by Batala Police.
India 13-Sep-2024
Punjab Police on September 13 arrested a government drug inspector from the health department, identified as Shishan Mittal, and seized INR 1.49 crore in cash, gold, foreign currency, and identified assets acquired through illegal means in Mohali, Sahibzada Ajit Singh (SAS) Nagar district. Mittal was involved in facilitating drug smuggling and money laundering, and he had been in contact with drug smugglers, frequently traveling abroad without government permission.
India 13-Sep-2024
The Punjab Lit Foundation, in collaboration with the Hoshiarpur district administration, will launch the Mothers Against Drugs project at Bullowal village in Hoshiarpur district on September 15.
India 13-Sep-2024
Police on September 13 arrested drug peddler, identified as Vikramjit Singh and seized 513 grams of heroin from his possession, on Abohar-Sadulshehar Road near Wahabwala village in Abohar in Ferozepur district.
India 13-Sep-2024
Police on September 13 arrested two bike-borne youths, identified as Pawan Kumar and Raj Karan and seized 800 grams of opium from their possession, in Kera Khera village in Abohar in Ferozepur district.
India 13-Sep-2024
On September 13, during the hearing of the Sidhu Moose Wala murder case, the AK-47 used by the killers and Moose Wala’s Thar vehicle were presented as evidence in a Mansa court in Mansa district, Punjab.
India 13-Sep-2024
The Punjab and Haryana High Court (HC) issued a notice to radical Khalistani preacher and Member of Parliament (MP) Amritpal Singh in response to a petition challenging his election. The petitioner, Vikramjit Singh, alleges that Singh concealed details in his nomination affidavit, violated election expenditure rules, and engaged in corrupt practices by using religious venues and seeking votes on religious grounds. The petition argues that Singh's actions breach the Representation of the People Act.
Canada 13-Sep-2024
Canadian Conservative Party leader Pierre Poilievre condemned the pro-Khalistan elements' calls for Hindus to leave Canada as 'absolutely unacceptable' during a statement in Toronto on September 13. He criticized Prime Minister Justin Trudeau for dividing communities and emphasized the need for unity based on Canadian values. Poilievre's remarks were welcomed by the Coalition of Hindus of North America (CoHNA) and the Canadian Hindu Chamber of Commerce (CHCC), both of which highlighted concerns over rising Hinduphobia in Canada.
India 14-Sep-2024
According to reports, the recent endorsement of Rahul Gandhi's statement on Sikh rights by Khalistani terrorist and chief of the Khalistani outfit Sikhs For Justice (SFJ), Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, has exposed divisions within the Khalistan movement. Many Sikhs find SFJ's support for Gandhi contradictory, given the Congress party's role in past Sikh suffering. This internal schism highlights how some factions exploit historical grievances for personal gain, straying from the original mission of Sikh empowerment.
India 14-Sep-2024
Faridkot Member of Parliament (MP) Sarabjeet Singh Khalsa, along with radical Khalistani preacher and Khadoor Sahib MP Amritpal Singh’s father, Tarsem Singh, announced on September 14 the candidacy of Mandeep Singh Sidhu, the brother of the chief founder of Waris De Punjab (WPD), Sandeep Singh alias Deep Sidhu, for the Gidderbaha bypoll in Gidderbaha, Muktsar district, Punjab.
India 14-Sep-2024
Police sources confirmed that former Punjab Police Superintendent of Police (SP) Jasjit Singh Chahal was the target of a recent grenade attack on September 11 at a house he vacated months ago in Chandigarh. US-based gangster and Khalistani terrorist Harpreet Singh alias Happy Passia claimed responsibility for the blast. Chahal had been advised to move following the arrest of individuals plotting an attack on him last year.
Canada 14-Sep-2024
Tarlochan Singh, former chairman of India’s National Commission for Minorities, recently urged the Jathedar of Akal Takht, Giani Raghbir Singh, Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC) president Harjinder Singh Dhami, and Sikh Members of Parliament (MPs) from Canada to address Quebec’s Bill 21, which bans public servants in positions of authority from wearing religious symbols, including turbans. Singh emphasized that Sikh MPs should follow the example of Sikhs in the United Kingdom (UK), who successfully amended similar laws to protect Sikh symbols, and called for efforts to have the law revisited and amended.
United States 14-Sep-2024
The case against Indian citizen Nikhil Gupta, accused by the United States (US) in a 'murder-for-hire' plot targeting Khalistani terrorist Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, was postponed to October 18 in New York City (NYC). Judge Victor Marrero granted the delay at the request of both the prosecution and defense to allow time for evidence review.
India 14-Sep-2024
Jalandhar rural police on September 14 arrested seven members of the infamous Ankush Bhaya Gang and seized 1,000 Alprazolam tablets, four pistols, and ammunition from their possession in Jalandhar district. The gang, linked to criminal figures such as Vikram Brar and Ravi Balachoria, was planning a bank robbery and the murder of rival gang members.
United States 15-Sep-2024
Khalistani terrorist and chief of the banned Khalistani outfit Sikhs For Justice (SFJ), Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, claimed that Rahul Gandhi's statement in Washington, D.C., acknowledging the existential threat faced by Sikhs in India, will boost the Khalistan Referendum campaign. Pannun stated that Gandhi's remarks validate Punjab's secession and the formation of an independent Khalistan. He further accused Hindutva groups, including the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), and Jana Sangh, of being enemies of Sikhs and asserted that they will be held accountable for their actions.
India 15-Sep-2024
Punjab Police Director General of Police (DGP) Gaurav Yadav on September 15 revealed that U.S.-based gangster turned terrorist Harpreet Singh alias Happy Passia, along with Pakistan-based Babbar Khalsa International (BKI) terrorist Harvinder Singh alias Rinda, and the Pakistani Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI), provided explosives, weapons, and logistical support for the Chandigarh grenade attack but reneged on promised rewards. The DGP warned against terrorist handlers exploiting vulnerable youth with false promises, stating that investigations continue to uncover the full conspiracy.
India 15-Sep-2024
According to sources, the National Investigation Agency (NIA) will now investigate the hand grenade attack at a Sector 10 bungalow in Chandigarh, following a meeting with Chandigarh Police. Authorities have detained auto driver Kuldeep, who allegedly transported the attackers. CCTV footage shows the duo hiring an auto, fleeing after the blast, and switching vehicles.
Austria 15-Sep-2024
Surinder Singh Parmar, a member of the Austrian Sikh community, highlighted on September 15 in Vienna, Austria, that while Sikhism is officially recognized, it lacks comprehensive judicial protection. Sikhs must comprise at least 2% of the population for their faith to achieve full legal recognition, which poses challenges in addressing sacrilege issues through the courts. Despite this, Sikhs can use "Singh" and "Kaur" in official documents and list Sikhism as their religion. Parmar emphasized that judicial recognition would significantly benefit the community in practicing and promoting Sikhism.
India 15-Sep-2024
Union Minister and Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader Ravneet Singh Bittu, while addressing media persons in Bhagalpur, Bihar, on September 15, referred to Rahul Gandhi as the "number one terrorist of the country" in response to his comments about the Sikh community made in the US. Bittu also claimed that Gandhi "was not an Indian" and suggested offering a reward for his capture, labeling him as the "biggest enemy of the country.
India 15-Sep-2024
The Counter Intelligence (CI) Jalandhar on September 15 arrested an Army deserter identified as Amritpal Singh alias Fauji and seized 12.5 kg of heroin along with a motorcycle from his possession in Kangniwal village, Jalandhar district. Fauji had been on the run since August after his accomplice, Sartaj, was caught with 33 kg of heroin in Jammu. The drug cartel, operated from Dubai by Amrit Pal Singh Baath, was involved in large-scale smuggling.
India 15-Sep-2024
Police on September 15 arrested one person, identified as Vishal Kumar alias Vishal and seized 3 grams of narcotic powder (heroin) and sedative injections from his possession, in Mahilpur in Hoshiarpur district in Punjab.
India 15-Sep-2024
Police on September 15 arrested one person, identified as Kamaldeep alias Deepa and seized 35 grams of heroin and a large quantity of intoxicating pills from his possession, in Hoshiarpur in Hoshiarpur district.
India 15-Sep-2024
The Tanda police on September 15 arrested one person, identified as Mahesh Kumar and seized a large quantity of intoxicating pills from his possession, in Tanda village in Hoshiarpur district in Punjab.
India 15-Sep-2024
The Tanda police on September 15 arrested one person, identified as Hari Om and seized 10 grams of heroin from his possession, in Rada village in Hoshiarpur district.
India 15-Sep-2024
The Dasuya police on September 15 arrested one person, identified as Lovepreet alias Love and seized 68 grams of heroin from his possession, in Himantpur village in Dasuya in Hoshiarpur district.
India 15-Sep-2024
Gangster Satendra Pal Singh alias Lucky, was killed in a crossfire with police in Haridwar, Uttarakhand, on September 15. Singh, involved in an INR 5 crore jewellery heist earlier in September 2024, had a INR 1 lakh bounty on his head and was part of the notorious 'Karate Gang.' The police arrested his accomplices, identified as Gurdeep Singh and Jaydeep Singh, and seized a country-made pistol along with jewellery worth INR 50 lakh from their possession.
India 15-Sep-2024
The Border Security Force (BSF) troops on September 15 recovered two packets containing 1.14 kg of heroin near Naushehra Dhalla village in Tarn Taran district.
India 15-Sep-2024
The Punjab Police are reviewing the security of retired personnel who were involved during the era of terrorism, following the confirmation that retired Superintendent of Police (SP) Jaskirat Singh Chahal was the target of the recent grenade attack in Chandigarh.
United States 15-Sep-2024
The BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha (BAPS) Shri Swaminarayan Mandir in Melville, New York, United States (US), was desecrated with hate messages on September 15.
India 15-Sep-2024
According to sources, United States (US)-based gangster-turned-Khalistani terrorist Harpreet Singh, alias Happy Passia, is actively recruiting vulnerable youth from disadvantaged sections in the border areas of Amritsar and Gurdaspur districts in Punjab for criminal and terrorist operations. Passia, wanted in over 15 cases, exploits impoverished individuals by paying them meager sums for illegal activities, as evidenced by the arrest of Rohan Masih in connection with the Chandigarh grenade blast. The Punjab Police have dismantled several terror modules linked to Passia, including those involved in smuggling weapons via drones.
United States 16-Sep-2024
On September 16, the Consulate General of India in New York, via the social media platform X, strongly condemned the vandalism of the BAPS Swaminarayan Temple in Melville, calling it 'unacceptable' and urging United States (US) law enforcement to take swift action against the perpetrators. The BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha and the Hindu American Foundation (HAF) also condemned the desecration, noting that similar hate crimes had occurred at Hindu temples across North America. They called for peace and religious harmony, and appealed to the US Justice Department to investigate, linking the attack to a recent threat by Khalistani terrorist Gurpatwant Singh Pannun.
India 16-Sep-2024
Punjab Police Inspector General of Police (IGP) Sukhchain Singh Gill revealed in Chandigarh on September 16 that, over the past two and a half years (2022-2024), they have arrested 39,840 drug smugglers, registered 29,152 First Information Reports (FIRs), and seized 2,546 kg of heroin, 2,457 kg of opium, and INR 30.83 crore in drug money. Additionally, the police forfeited properties worth INR 324.28 crore from major smugglers.
India 16-Sep-2024
Police on September 16 busted an international drug racket by arresting four individuals, identified as Harjinder Pal Singh, Veer Singh, Surmukh Singh, and Malook Singh, and seizing 10 kg of heroin from their possession in Khiche village, Ferozepur district. The arrests followed information provided by Shinda Singh, another smuggler arrested on September 9 with 1 kg of heroin and INR 4 lakh in drug money. The smugglers were linked to Pakistan-based handlers, who used drones to transport drugs, with Harjinder Pal Singh having prior connections to the Pakistan army and handler Riyast Dogger.
India 16-Sep-2024
The Border Security Force (BSF) on September 16 shot a Pakistani intruder along the International Border (IB) after he ignored warnings to stop in the Amritsar sector near Ratankhurd village in Amritsar district. PKR 270 in various denominations was recovered from his possession.
India 16-Sep-2024
In a joint operation with Punjab Police on September 16, the Border Security Force (BSF) arrested two individuals, Puran Singh and Sukhwinder Singh alias Sukha, who admitted to retrieving a narcotics consignment dropped by a Pakistani drone, and recovered two packets containing approximately 1 kg of heroin near Chak Amira village in Fazilka district.
India 16-Sep-2024
The Amritsar police on September 16 busted a trans-border narcotic smuggling network with the arrest of a drug smuggler, identified as Kanwaljit Kaur alias Massi, and seized 4.580 kg of heroin from her possession in Chheharta, Amritsar district. Police revealed that Kaur and her son-in-law, Jugraj Singh, were in contact with Pakistan-based smugglers and used drones to transport drugs.
India 16-Sep-2024
Police on September 16 foiled a gang allegedly being operated from behind bars in Kapurthala district with the arrest of three accused, identified as Amritjeet Singh, Akashdeep Singh, and Kamaldeep Singh, and seized three .32 calibre pistols, 26 cartridges, and 20 grams of heroin from their possession in Rajpura in Patiala district. The gang was reportedly working on behalf of the Prince Golu gang, led by brothers Prince and Onkar Singh Golu, who were orchestrating criminal activities from Kapurthala Jail. Authorities are now investigating how the brothers were able to run operations from prison.
India 16-Sep-2024
The Akal Takht recently summoned 17 Sikh ministers from the Akali Dal-BJP government for their failure to address sacrilege incidents during their tenure, which led to the excommunication of former Chief Minister (CM) Sukhbir Singh Badal. While some interpreted this as a response to political shortcomings, others feared it signalled a resurgence of Khalistani sentiments. Historical parallels with the terror-filled 1980s suggest that when religious authority overshadows state power, it often leads to militant uprisings. Despite earlier hopes that Punjab had moved beyond Khalistan, recent electoral successes of separatist candidates indicate that pro-Khalistan ideologies have been gaining momentum, driven by both local and diaspora influences.
India 16-Sep-2024
Prime Minister (PM) Narendra Modi, on September 16, while speaking in Ahmedabad, Gujarat, indirectly criticized Rahul Gandhi, accusing 'those filled with hate' of defaming India. This followed Gandhi's remarks in the United States (US) regarding the freedom of religious minorities, particularly the Sikh community.
United States 17-Sep-2024
Khalistani terrorist and chief of the banned Khalistani outfit Sikhs For Justice (SFJ), Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, has reportedly filed a lawsuit in New York, United States (US), against the Indian government and senior intelligence officials, accusing them of orchestrating assassination plots. The lawsuit names Nikhil Gupta, currently in a Brooklyn prison, senior intelligence officer Vikram Yadav, former Research and Analysis Wing (RAW) chief Samant Goel, and India’s National Security Adviser (NSA) Ajit Doval. This comes after the murder of Khalistani terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar in Canada, an incident that India denies involvement in.
India 17-Sep-2024
Sikh activist Sukhraj Singh, whose father was killed in the 2015 Behbal Kalan police firing in Punjab, has been summoned by the National Investigation Agency (NIA) in New Delhi in connection with the attack on the Indian Embassy in London in March 2023. The NIA notice requires his presence on September 19, 2024, for questioning under charges related to the Indian Penal Code, the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA), the Prevention of Damage to Public Property Act, and the Prevention of Insults to National Honours Act. Sukhraj, who recently announced his candidacy for the Gidderbaha by poll, expressed uncertainty about the summons, suggesting it might be linked to his past interactions with Khalistani terrorist Avtar Singh Khanda.