KHALISTAN EXTREMISM MONITOR
A project of the Institute for Conflict Management
A project of the Institute for Conflict Management
Canada 29-Mar-2024
In a letter addressed to Prime Minister (PM) Justin Trudeau, the Hindu Forum Canada (HFC) on March 29 urged PM Trudeau to prevent the glorification of terrorism in Canada and address concerns about safety among Canadian Hindus. The HFC expressed dismay over Trudeau's statements potentially emboldening extremist elements like Khalistani terrorist and the chief of the Khalistani terror outfit Sikhs For Justice (SFJ), Gurpatwant Singh Pannun. HFC also criticized Member of Parliament (MP) Sukh Dhaliwal's motion M-112, fearing it legitimizes baseless allegations, posing a danger to Hindu and broader Canadian communities.
India 29-Mar-2024
Akal Takht Jathedar Giani Raghbir Singh on March 29 strongly condemned the portrayal of Sikhs alongside extremist groups like the Taliban and Ku Klux Klan in some United Kingdom (UK) school curriculums, emphasizing Sikhism's distinct identity. The Jathedar deemed the association as insensitive and highlighted the need to respect Sikh beliefs and heritage.
India 30-Mar-2024
Police on March 30 busted an international drug racket being operated from Goindwal Jail in Goindwal, Tarn Taran district, and arrested five youths identified as Gagandeep Singh alias Gora, Harmandeep Singh alias Happy, Charanjit Singh, Germanpreet Singh, and Lovejit Singh alias Rahul and seized 3 kg of heroin, INR 50,000 in drug money, and a pistol with three cartridges from their possession in Amritsar district. Investigations revealed that the suspects lacked prior criminal records and had been involved in the drug trade for six months. The cartel was being operated by a Goindwal Sahib jail inmate who had links with Pakistan-based narco suppliers with the pseudonyms Kala and Rana.
India 30-Mar-2024
The Indian government recently blocked access to a documentary titled ‘Sikhs, Spies, and Murder: Investigating India’s Alleged Hit on Foreign Soil’, produced by the Australian Broadcasting Corporation, which implicates Indian agents in the murder of Khalistani terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar in Surrey, Canada. Following orders from the Indian Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, YouTube restricted access to the documentary.
United States 30-Mar-2024
On March 30, the Bradshaw Gurdwara in Sacramento, California, United States, was busy with preparations for the upcoming Khalistan Referendum scheduled for March 31. Some Sikhs voiced concerns about ongoing repression and transnational threats, advocating for their right to self-determination through the referendum.
India 30-Mar-2024
The Crime Investigation Agency (CIA) staff of the Police on March 30 arrested four persons, identified as Tejinderpal Singh, Parminder Singh alias Billa, Gurvinder Singh and Sanu Sharma alias Bunty and seized 120 banned pills from their possession, near a de-addiction centre in Faridkot in Faridkot district. These individuals were arrested for selling prohibited pills to drug addicts outside the de-addiction centre. Two suspects, who were employed as security guards at the centre, allegedly enticed addicts with chemical drugs during rehab visits. Two other suspects, Rakesh Kumar and Satish Kumar, remain absconding.
India 31-Mar-2024
United States (US) ambassador to India Eric Garcetti on March 31, in an interview with ANI, emphasised the 'red line' that should not be crossed between India and the US amidst the investigation into the alleged foiled assassination plot against US citizen and Khalistani terrorist Gurpatwant Singh Pannun. He highlighted the distinction in freedom of speech between the US and India, emphasising that criminal conviction in the US requires action, not just speech. Garcetti stressed that no government employee of any country should be involved in such plots, highlighting it as an unacceptable violation of sovereignty and rights. He reiterated the commitment to working with India, ensuring that any criminal accusations meet the threshold for a successful outcome under US law. He also addressed recent threats made by Pannun against Air India and the Indian Parliament, underscoring the importance of respecting boundaries in international relations. Additionally, he advocated vigilance for Indian students studying in the US and reassured the safety of American college towns despite challenges, attributing increased awareness of incidents to social media.
United States 31-Mar-2024
According to sources, on March 31, around 5,000 people gathered at the California State Capitol in Sacramento, California, in the United States (US) to vote on the Khalistan referendum, seeking independence from India and proposing the formation of 'Khalistan' in Punjab. The non-binding referendum was organized by the Khalistani outfit Sikhs For Justice (SFJ).
India 31-Mar-2024
The police stated on March 30 that five individuals, including a retired Indian Administrative Service (IAS) officer, have been booked following the killing of Baba Tarsem Singh, the dera kar seva chief of Nanakmatta Sahib Gurdwara in Nanakmatta, Udham Singh Nagar district, Uttarakhand. The FIR includes the two assailants, Sarabjit Singh and Amarjeet Singh, along with the retired IAS officer and the head of the Nanakmatta Gurudwara Prabandhak Committee, Harbans Singh Chugh, Baba Anup Singh, and Pritam Singh Sandhu, the vice-president of a regional Sikh outfit.
India 31-Mar-2024
According to reports, in Sriganganagar Lok Sabha constituency in Rajasthan and Fazilka district in Punjab, authorities are alarmed by a surge in narcotics smuggling ahead of upcoming elections. Most recent arrests under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act in Sriganganagar involved individuals from Punjab, particularly in areas bordering Fazilka district. Significant seizures include 40.3 kg of opium in Sangaria in Rajasthan and 653 kg of poppy husk in Hanumangarh in Rajasthan, both involving Punjab-registered vehicles. In Fazilka district, 14 arrests have been made since March 24, resulting in the seizure of 9.955 kg of heroin, 16.5 kg of poppy husk, 420 drug pills, and drug money amounting to INR 20,700. The crackdown aims to tighten vigilance and curb drug trafficking ahead of the elections.
India 31-Mar-2024
A drug smuggler identified as Gurlal Singh alias Gullu, who was arrested with 40kg heroin by the special task force (STF) of Ludhiana Range in 2018, was recently awarded 12-year rigorous imprisonment along with a fine of INR 1 lakh in Punjab. The STF had revealed his connections with cross-border smugglers for procuring heroin to distribute in Punjab.
India 31-Mar-2024
Police on March 31 busted an inter-state illegal arms smuggling racket and arrested four members identified as Gurmanjot Singh, Kuldeep Singh alias Manak, Sukhchain Singh, and Sandeep Singh and seized nine .32 bore country-made pistols and eight live cartridges from their possession near Patran-Khanauri road near Patran in Patiala district. The police revealed that they acted on credible intelligence regarding arms smugglers transporting illegal weapons from Sendhwan in Barwani district, Madhya Pradesh, to engage in criminal activities in Punjab.
India 31-Mar-2024
The Border Security Force (BSF) on March 31 recovered a China-made drone, from farming fields near Havellian village in Tarn Taran district.
India 31-Mar-2024
Malerkotla police, as part of efforts to combat the drug menace in the region, have decided to expedite the process of attaching movable and immovable properties of five individuals booked under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act. Properties worth over INR 6.91 crore have been evaluated for attachment, with INR 4.083 crore already seized. Immovable properties belonging to Akashdeep Singla and Yogesh Bansal, estimated to be worth INR 4.0837 crore, were seized recently after receiving approval from competent authorities in Delhi. Additionally, modalities for attaching properties of three other accused, worth INR 2.83 crore, are nearing completion.
United States 31-Mar-2024
On March 31, approximately 5,000 people gathered at the California State Capitol in Sacramento, California, United States (US), to participate in the Khalistan referendum organized by the Khalistani outfit Sikhs For Justice (SFJ), aimed at seeking independence from India. During the event, Jathedar Gurdev Singh Kaunke was honoured as a martyr. Additionally, the Punjab Referendum Commission announced a new voting date scheduled for July 28, 2024, in Calgary, Canada.
United States 31-Mar-2024
According to Pakistani sources, over 60,000 American Sikhs participated in the second phase of the Khalistan Referendum organised by the Khalistani outfit Sikhs For Justice (SFJ) at the California State Capitol in Sacramento, California, in the United States (US). The event occurred under the protection of US snipers and police.
India 01-Apr-2024
On April 1, late at night, unidentified individuals fired gunshots at the residence of Punjabi singer Sahil Shah in the Buta Mandi area of Jalandhar in Jalandhar district, Punjab. Shah had been receiving threat calls in recent days and found bullet marks on his house's gate upon returning from Chandigarh. He also stated facing pressure from gangsters to collaborate with them. Police recovered a bullet shell from the scene.
India 01-Apr-2024
Indian External Affairs Minister (EAM) S Jaishankar on April 1 emphasized that India's national security interests were at stake in the investigation into allegations regarding a government official's involvement in a scheme aimed at targeting Khalistani terrorist Gurpatwant Singh Pannun. Jaishankar's statement follows United States (US) Ambassador Eric Garcetti's assertion on March 31 of such involvement being an "unacceptable red line." Jaishankar stated that the Indian government is actively investigating the matter.
United States 01-Apr-2024
On April 1, five Indian-descent members of the United States (US) Congress - Raja Krishnamoorthi, Ro Khanna, Pramila Jayapal, Ami Bera, and Shri Thanedar - demanded a briefing from the Justice Department regarding vandalism at Hindu temples across the country by Khalistani activists. The letter highlighted incidents such as pro-Khalistan and anti-India graffiti, which have caused anxiety and concern among Hindu Americans regarding law enforcement coordination. They stressed the importance of federal oversight to address bias-motivated crimes targeting Hindus.
India 01-Apr-2024
Police on April 1 arrested two individuals identified as Harnam Singh and Amrit Pal Singh alias Ravi and seized one HE-36 hand grenade and a .32 bore revolver, along with an SUV (PB 03-6069), from their possession on the outskirts of Rurki Kalan village in Malerkotla district, Punjab. Further investigations are underway to determine their intent and potential accomplices.
India 01-Apr-2024
The Assam police on April 1 arrested the owner of a dhaba (eatery), identified as Gurmukh Singh, for displaying posters of Khalistani terrorist Jarnail Singh Bhindranwale, along with posters of Sidhu Moose Wala and Khalistani flags, in Bongaigaon district in Assam.
India 03-Apr-2024
Relatives of Khalistani preacher and chief of Waris Punjab De (WPD) Amritpal Singh, along with nine others, who are detained in Dibrugarh Jail in Assam under the National Security Act (NSA), expressed frustration at the lack of political support in Punjab. Sukhchain Singh (Amritpal's uncle) and Balwinder Kaur (Amritpal's mother) lamented that despite their hunger strike and pleas for transfer to Punjab, no prominent leaders have engaged with them during the Lok Sabha election period.
United Kingdom 03-Apr-2024
Five British doctors and academics specializing in blood cancer, while speaking on a BBC Sounds podcast, refuted claims that Khalistani terrorist Avtar Singh Khanda's death from acute myeloid leukaemia (AML) at 35 could have been triggered by poisoning. Charles Craddock, the academic director of the Centre for Clinical Haematology at Queen Elizabeth Hospital in Birmingham, United Kingdom (UK), along with four other doctors and academics, emphasized the aggressiveness of AML and the impossibility of inducing it through poisoning. Khanda's death certificate lists AML and pulmonary embolism as causes, while his family and friends allege he was poisoned by the Indian government, with the UK covering it up.
India 03-Apr-2024
The Punjab and Haryana High Court (HC) on April 3 expressed grave concern over the widespread drug menace, noting that a large number of youth are falling prey to drug peddlers. Justice Sandeep Moudgil emphasized the serious and alarming proportions the issue has taken in recent times, asserting the need for firm action against accused individuals involved in drug-related crimes. The court highlighted the destructive impact of drug peddlers on society's social fabric and the youth, emphasizing the importance of addressing clandestine drug smuggling.
India 03-Apr-2024
Border Security Force (BSF), in a joint operation with Punjab Police on April 3, busted a narco-hawala racket and arrested two unidentified individuals along with one packet containing 500 grams of heroin from a house in Bhalladwal village in Amritsar district. The arrested individuals confessed to transferring drug money to Pakistan-based smugglers. Both suspects have been remanded to judicial custody for 14 days.
India 03-Apr-2024
Border Security Force (BSF) on April 3, during a search operation based on specific information, recovered a packet containing 545 grams of heroin from fields near Naushera Dhalla village in Tarn Taran district.
India 03-Apr-2024
The Election Commission (EC) on April 3 directed District Collectors (DCs), Commissioners of Police (CPs), and Senior Superintendents of Police (SSPs) to heighten vigilance against the smuggling of drugs, liquor, and cash in preparation for the 2024 Lok Sabha polls, in a meeting led by Deputy Election Commissioner Hirdesh Kumar in Chandigarh. Officials were instructed to ensure smooth voting procedures at polling stations and to make adequate arrangements for central security forces. The EC also requested detailed reports on liquor and drug seizures following the enforcement of the code of conduct.
India 03-Apr-2024
Police on April 3 arrested two wanted sharpshooters belonging to the Jitender Gogi-Kapil Maan gang, identified as Himanshu and Abhimanyu alias Abhi and seized two semi-automatic sophisticated pistols of .32 bore along with eight bullets from their possession near Kailash Farm Road near Alipur in North Delhi district in Delhi. The suspects were planning to eliminate witnesses in a case against the gang members. Investigations revealed Himanshu's involvement in previous murders and his association with Abhimanyu, whom he met during his prison term.
United States 03-Apr-2024
The United States (US) State Department spokesperson, Matthew Miller, on April 3 emphasized the need for India to conduct a thorough inquiry regarding the alleged involvement of Indian government agents in a plot to kill Khalistani terrorist and US citizen Gurpatwant Singh Pannun. He reiterated the US's anticipation of the results of a full investigation by India.
India 03-Apr-2024
Jagjit Singh Dallewal, the head of Bharti Kisan Union (BKU-Ekta-Sidhupur), urged farmers to gather in significant numbers at the Punjab-Haryana border while addressing them at a gurdwara in Chhateana village in Muktsar district of Punjab, on April 3. Dallewal also announced plans for a debate with the government regarding unmet demands and the installation of hoardings highlighting their grievances.
Canada 04-Apr-2024
The Canadian Security Intelligence Service (CSIS) on April 4 released a report indicating possible meddling by India and Pakistan in Canada's elections, involving clandestine activities and illegal financial support to candidates sympathetic to their interests. The report suggests that India may have used proxy agents and targeted districts with Indo-Canadian voters sympathetic to Pakistan or the Khalistan movement. However, Pakistan's interference was described as limited, with the Canadian government taking action to mitigate the threat.
India 04-Apr-2024
A state-level joint coordination meeting took place on April 4 with senior officers from Punjab Police, Border Security Force (BSF), Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP), Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB), and other central agencies to review security arrangements for the upcoming Parliamentary elections in Jalandhar district of Punjab. Special Director General of Police (DGP-Law and Order) Arpit Shukla, along with BSF's Inspector General (IG) Dr. Atul Fulzele, emphasized the need to strengthen the line of defense and disrupt the drug supply chain across the border. Shukla called for greater synergy among the forces to ensure free and fair elections, directing enhanced deployment of police personnel for night patrolling and increased vigilance on drone movements. The BSF was instructed to utilize drone detection technology, given the 325 drone sightings reported in 2023, with 118 drones recovered, and 26 drones retrieved in 2024 thus far.
India 04-Apr-2024
The Crime Investigation Agency (CIA) staff of the Police on April 4 arrested a drug peddler, identified as Updesh Singh and seized 1 kg of opium from his possession at Abohar-Hanumangarh road near Abohar in Fazilka district. This arrest follows the previous arrest of his father, Mahal Singh, in April 2023 with 3.5 kg of opium; Mahal Singh remains in jail.
India 04-Apr-2024
Rattandeep Singh, a former Khalistani militant associated with the Bhindranwale Tiger Force of Khalistan (BTFK), was shot dead by two unidentified bike-borne assailants in Balachaur, Shaheed Bhagat Singh Nagar district, Punjab, on April 4. Having been a hardcore militant involved in various terror activities, including a bomb blast in Chandigarh in 1999, Rattandeep was arrested in 2014 after evading authorities for years and was released in 2019. His nephew, who was in the car with him, reported that they were meeting unidentified persons when the assailants opened fire. Gangster Gopi Nawanshahria claimed responsibility for the killing, alleging Rattandeep's involvement in fraud, but police are yet to verify the claim.
India 04-Apr-2024
According to a report by The Guardian, Indian and Pakistani intelligence officials, speaking anonymously, alleged that the Indian government, through its foreign intelligence agency, the Research & Analysis Wing (RAW), has been involved in targeted killings in Pakistan since 2019. The operations, reportedly overseen by Prime Minister (PM) Narendra Modi's office, are said to be part of a strategy to eliminate terrorists residing on foreign soil. The report suggests that sleeper cells operated by Indian intelligence in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) coordinated these killings, with payments facilitated through Dubai.
India 05-Apr-2024
The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal on April 5 labelled allegations by the Canadian Security Intelligence Service (CSIS) of interference in Canadian elections as baseless and highlighted Canada's historical interference in Indian affairs. The CSIS report alleges Indian government involvement in clandestine activities during Canada's 2021 elections, targeting specific electoral districts with alleged support for pro-Indian candidates.
India 05-Apr-2024
Indian officials recently rejected a report by The Guardian that alleged their involvement in orchestrating killings in Pakistan, attributing the actions to Pakistan's spy agency Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI). The report claimed almost 20 killings since 2020, with a notable increase in 2023, and suggested Indian agents were operating sleeper cells in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). Indian officials dismissed these allegations, with Defence expert Sanjay Kulkarni asserting that India does not operate in such a manner.
India 05-Apr-2024
Punjab Police on April 5 busted an interstate gang involved in smuggling drugs and weapons and arrested four individuals identified as Neeraj Kumar, Akashdeep, Tejpal Singh, and Rahu, seizing 300 grams of heroin and seven country-made pistols near Kapurthala in Kapurthala district. The police revealed that the suspects acquired illegal country-made pistols from Bihar and Uttar Pradesh and sold them in Punjab. Neeraj Kumar, one of the arrested individuals, is also implicated in a bank robbery in Bihar where he stole INR 40 lakh.
India 05-Apr-2024
The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) on April 5 opposed the furlough plea of former Congress leader Sajjan Kumar, serving life imprisonment in a 1984 anti-Sikh riots case, citing his involvement in the killing of thousands of Sikhs and the potential flight risk. In its affidavit filed with the Supreme Court, the CBI argued that Kumar's history of misbehaviour and punishment during his incarceration undermines claims of "good behaviour". Kumar surrendered in 2018 after being convicted and sentenced for his role in the riots that claimed around 3,000 lives, mostly Sikhs, in the aftermath of Prime Minister (PM) Indira Gandhi's assassination. The Supreme Court, having dismissed his bail plea previously, has declined further release, emphasizing the severity of his crimes and his lack of entitlement to special treatment.
India 05-Apr-2024
The City-2 police seized 2 kg of opium from a bike belonging to an accused identified as Arun Kumar alias Latu on April 5 in Abohar in Fazilka district. However, the accused managed to evade arrest.
Pakistan 06-Apr-2024
A statement from the Pakistan Foreign Office in Islamabad on April 6 condemned Indian Defence Minister Rajnath Singh's remarks implying extrajudicial killings in Pakistani territory. The statement asserted that India's admission corroborates Pakistan's longstanding suspicions regarding India's involvement in such actions.
India 06-Apr-2024
Punjab Police have initiated a crackdown on drug peddlers, bootleggers, and violators of the model code of conduct following the announcement of General Elections to the 18th Lok Sabha by the Election Commission of India. Since the imposition of the model code of conduct, they have seized a significant amount of contraband, including 10.7 kg of heroin, 207 gm of opium, and 54 kg of poppy husk. Additionally, 2,920 litres of illicit liquor and 173 quintals of lahan were confiscated. A total of 157 individuals have been arrested under various offenses, with 10 pistols recovered along with 28 bullets and magazines. Twenty inter-district nakas (checkpoints) and eight second-line defences near the International Border (IB) have been established to curb smuggling activities ahead of the elections.
India 06-Apr-2024
The Special Task Force (STF) wing of Ludhiana Police on April 6 arrested two drug peddlers identified as Amritpal Singh and Sunny Kumar, seizing 5.5 kg of heroin from their possession near Jandiala Guru in Amritsar district. The suspects were allegedly connected to a prominent Amritsar-based drug smuggler, potentially linked to Pakistan-based heroin traffickers, indicating a cross-border smuggling angle.
United Kingdom 06-Apr-2024
Sikh Federation United Kingdom (UK) leader Dabinderjit Singh recently disclosed in an interview with Akaal TV that prominent Geo/The News London reporter Murtaza Ali Shah faces death threats from the Indian state due to his coverage of Khalistan issues and Sikh activists. Singh revealed that the Metropolitan Police are aware of these threats, linking them to Shah's reporting on the Khalistan Referendum and the Khalistani outfit Sikhs For Justice (SFJ).
India 06-Apr-2024
The registration of Keshdhaari Sikhs for the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC) elections in Punjab has plummeted by nearly 50% since 2011, with only 27.45 lakh registered voters compared to over 52 lakh in 2011. The declining trend is attributed to the SGPC's diminishing significance among Sikhs, along with factors like conversions, migration, and the rising influence of Dera culture. The SGPC elections, overseen by the Gurdwara Election Commission (GEC) established by the Government of India (GoI), involve 159 elected members, with 157 from Punjab and two each from Chandigarh and Himachal Pradesh (HP). Despite extensions, voter registration remained slow, partly attributed to strikes by revenue patwaris and farmer agitation, prompting calls for increased publicity and administrative efforts to boost registration before the April 30 deadline.
India 06-Apr-2024
Police on April 6 arrested an individual identified as Rana Kumar and seized 20 kg of poppy husk from him in Ishar Nagar, Ludhiana, in Ludhiana district. According to the police, Rana, a labourer and drug addict, allegedly smuggled drugs to finance his addiction. He is already involved in seven drug peddling cases across Punjab and Haryana.
India 06-Apr-2024
On April 6, Manjit Singh, a 25-year-old, died from a suspected drug overdose in Lalchian village in Ferozepur district, Punjab. He allegedly consumed a synthetic drug (chitta) at Jawai Singh Wala village and lost consciousness, subsequently passing away at his home in Lalchian village.
India 07-Apr-2024
Police on April 7 arrested two members of the Arsh Dala gang identified as Vimalpreet Singh and Ashu Kumar and seized two illegal .32-bore pistols and a .30-bore pistol from them near Machaki Mal Singh village in Faridkot district in Punjab. The accused were allegedly targeting an executive engineer of Punjab State Power Corporation Limited (PSPCL) for INR 20 lakh in extortion money and sustained gunshot wounds during the encounter with the police. According to police investigations, the gangsters had planned the attack on the engineer who refused to comply with their demands.
India 07-Apr-2024
Police on April 7 arrested two members of the Arsh Dala gang identified as Vimalpreet Singh and Ashu Kumar and seized two illegal .32-bore pistols and a .30-bore pistol from them near Machaki Mal Singh village in Faridkot district in Punjab. The accused were allegedly targeting an executive engineer of Punjab State Power Corporation Limited (PSPCL) for INR 20 lakh in extortion money and sustained gunshot wounds during the encounter with the police. According to police investigations, the gangsters had planned the attack on the engineer who refused to comply with their demands.
India 07-Apr-2024
Punjab Police on April 7 arrested Balwinder Kaur, the mother of Waris Punjab De (WPD) head and Khalistani preacher Amritpal Singh, along with his uncle Sukhchain Singh and four others, while they were en route to Bathinda to participate in the Khalsa Chetna March in Amritsar in Amritsar district. The march aimed to seek the shifting of Amritpal Singh and his associates, currently detained in Dibrugarh Jail in Assam under the National Security Act (NSA), to Punjab. Despite the scheduled march from Takht Damdama Sahib in Talwandi Sabo, Bathinda district, to Akal Takht Sahib in Amritsar, the Bathinda administration denied permission citing potential law and order issues. The detainees were sent to judicial custody for four days.
Pakistan 07-Apr-2024
Sikh pilgrims from India are set to visit Pakistan on April 13 to partake in Khalsa Janma Day and Vaisakhi Mela celebrations. The Evacuee Trust Property Board (ETPB) officials have stated that they have ensured all necessary facilities are provided.
India 07-Apr-2024
The Border Security Force (BSF) recovered a packet of heroin weighing 350 grams from wheat fields adjacent to Kalsian village in Tarn Taran district on April 7.
India 07-Apr-2024
The Bhawanigarh Police on April 7 arrested an unidentified woman and seized 40 grams of heroin from her possession near the grain market at Jollian village in Sangrur district of Punjab.
United States 08-Apr-2024
The United States (US) State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller, in Washington DC, on April 8, refrained from commenting on allegations of India's involvement in targeted killings in Pakistan. He urged both countries to pursue dialogue and avoid escalation. Pakistani reports suggested that India, through its intelligence agency Research and Analysis Wing (RAW), had allegedly orchestrated nearly 20 assassinations in Pakistan since 2020. The targets were Sikh separatists associated with the Khalistan movement, as part of a post-Pulwama attack strategy. However, India has vehemently denied the accusations, labeling them as false and malicious anti-India propaganda.
India 08-Apr-2024
Khalistani terrorist Gurpawant Singh Pannun, chief of the banned Sikhs For Justice (SFJ), released a new video on April 8. In it, he threatened Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Union Minister of Defence Rajnath Singh, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, and former RAW chief Samant Goel, vowing to challenge them 'right in their own backyard.' The video features excerpts from Rajnath Singh's remarks on government action against terrorism and footage of PM Modi's strong statements on India's capability to retaliate against enemies. Pannun also labelled the upcoming Lok Sabha election in 2024 as an opportunity to 'shame' PM Modi. Furthermore, he pledged to continue campaigning for the Khalistan referendum and urged the United States, Canada, and Pakistan to adopt an equal punishment approach, citing 'Lex Talionis' (law of retaliation). His use of social media as a platform for these threats aligns with his past behaviour.
India 08-Apr-2024
Security has been heightened in Bathinda as Khalsa Chetna planned a march on April 8 in Punjab's Bathinda district, demanding the transfer of Khalistani preacher and Waris Punjab De (WPD) chief Amritpal Singh from Dibrugarh Central Jail in Assam to Punjab. Bathinda has been turned into a police cantonment, with extensive vehicle checks and monitoring of suspicious individuals.
India 08-Apr-2024
According to sources, over the past three months, Punjab Police have seized approximately 99 kg of heroin smuggled through drones across the International Border (IB) in Amritsar. Amritsar City and Rural Police have arrested 337 drug peddlers and filed 214 First Information Reports (FIRs) under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act since January 1, 2024. Notably, the rural police recovered 65 kg of contraband, while the city police seized 34 kg of heroin, along with a new trend of intercepting 2 kg of ice drug from Pakistan. Aside from heroin, the police seized 17 kg of opium and 56 kg of poppy husk, and recovered INR 1.17 crore of drug money in rural areas. The Police have highlighted efforts to dismantle narco modules operated by international smugglers from countries like Canada, the United States (US), and Malaysia. They also face challenges in countering cross-border smuggling, including the use of drones, prompting the installation of CCTV cameras and the setting up of special nakas (checkpoints) for border surveillance.
India 08-Apr-2024
Police on April 8 busted a smuggling racket and arrested two individuals identified as Kamaljit and Jatinder Kumar and seized 180 grams of heroin from their possession near Rama Mandi chowk in Jalandhar district. Both suspects have previous criminal records, and the police are continuing investigations to ascertain the source of the drugs.
India 09-Apr-2024
The Sikh high priests, including Akal Takht Jathedar Giani Raghbir Singh, Takht Damdama Sahib Jathedar Giani Harpreet Singh, Takht Kesgarh Sahib Jathedar Giani Sultan Singh, along with Giani Gurdev Singh and Giani Gurminder, held a meeting on April 9 at the Akal Takht secretariat in Amritsar and directed community members to hoist Khalsa flags on their homes to commemorate 325 years of Khalsa on Khalsa Sajna Divas on April 13.
Afghanistan 09-Apr-2024
According to sources, as a result of India's outreach efforts, the Taliban authorities in Afghanistan are working to restore private land to Hindu and Sikh minorities. Indian officials view this development as a positive gesture towards India, underscoring India's role in advocating for the rights and interests of Hindu and Sikh communities in Afghanistan.
India 09-Apr-2024
Prime Minister (PM) Narendra Modi, while addressing a rally in Pilibhit district in Uttar Pradesh (UP) on April 9, reached out to the Sikh community and condemned the 1984 anti-Sikh riots orchestrated by the Congress, stating that India can never forget what the Congress did to the Sikhs in 1984. PM Modi criticized the Congress and Samajwadi Party for their alleged role in the riots while highlighting the Bharatiya Janata Party's (BJP's) solidarity with the Sikh community through various initiatives like opening the Kartarpur Corridor and celebrating Sikh festivals.
India 09-Apr-2024
The National Investigation Agency (NIA) on April 9 announced the arrest of another individual in connection with the 2022 Attari drug seizure case, identified as Harwinder Singh alias Soshi Pannu, bringing the total number of arrests to six. Harwinder is alleged to have played a key role in distributing drugs, handling cash, and laundering drug proceeds through banking and "hawala" channels. The case involves a major conspiracy by an international drug cartel to circulate drugs in India, with seizures totalling 102.784 kg of heroin valued at about INR 700 crores in April 2022 by Indian Customs. The consignment, concealed in liquorice roots, originated from Afghanistan and was sent via the Attari inland customs entry point in Amritsar district, Punjab.
India 09-Apr-2024
The Border Security Force (BSF) and Gurdaspur Police conducted a joint operation on April 9 and recovered 530 grams of heroin allegedly dropped by a Pakistani drone near Chauntra village in Gurdaspur district in Punjab.
India 09-Apr-2024
The United States (US) ambassador to India, Eric Garcetti, emphasized India's pivotal role in shaping the future while speaking at an event in New Delhi on April 9. He urged others to visit India to witness, feel, and work on the future, highlighting the mutual exchange of ideas and initiatives between the US and India. Garcetti emphasized collaboration over teaching and preaching and also mentioned US President Joe Biden's deep appreciation for India's global significance.
United States 09-Apr-2024
The United States (US) National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan on April 9 praised the growing partnership between the US and India during a White House press conference in Washington DC. Sullivan cited advancements in technology and security collaboration, emphasizing the elevation of the partnership to new heights that transcend traditional boundaries. He highlighted the multifaceted engagement between the two nations across various dimensions, marking a significant milestone in their relationship.
Canada 09-Apr-2024
On April 9, Buta Singh Gill, the president of a gurdwara and owner of a construction firm, along with another individual named Nik Dhaliwal, were shot dead near a construction site in the Millwoods area of Edmonton, Alberta, Canada, in what appears to be a targeted attack by Indian gangsters. Another person, Sarbajit Singh, is currently hospitalized with life-threatening injuries. Connections between these gangsters and pro-Khalistan elements in Canada have surfaced, with reports suggesting extortion attempts aimed at affluent Indian-origin Canadians. The Edmonton police have previously linked extortions targeting affluent individuals of Indian origin to a criminal network operating from India, with investigations ongoing into multiple related incidents including arsons and firearms offences.
India 09-Apr-2024
According to sources, the Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) of India Rajiv Kumar allegedly received threat calls from pro-Khalistan elements abroad. These threats were reportedly conveyed through pre-recorded calls to Indian numbers, featuring a well-known pro-Khalistan leader who has a history of making such threats via internet-based voice calls and social media. As a result, the Union Ministry for Home Affairs (UMHA) has taken steps to enhance Rajiv Kumar's security, with the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) now providing "Z-category level" protection, extending across India. Kumar, currently under Delhi Police protection, is expected to receive round-the-clock security from CRPF commandos, including an escort vehicle, as part of his upgraded security detail.
India 10-Apr-2024
Sarabjeet Singh Khalsa, the son of the late Prime Minister (PM) Indira Gandhi's assassin Beant Singh, on April 10 announced his candidacy as an Independent from the Faridkot parliamentary constituency in Punjab. He has previously contested elections in 2004 and 2007 and is aiming to enter Parliament once again. His family has a political legacy, with his mother and grandfather having served as Members of Parliament (MPs) from Ropar and Bathinda, respectively.
India 10-Apr-2024
The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) on April 10 accused the Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) of patronizing the drug mafia, citing the arrest of Prakash Singh Langah, identified as the son of former Cabinet Minister in Punjab and a leader of SAD Sucha Singh Langah, with heroin in Shimla as evidence of their alleged involvement. The AAP urged strict action against the accused and criticized SAD for purportedly contributing to Punjab's drug crisis.
India 10-Apr-2024
Moga Police on April 10 arrested six members of the Davinder Bambiha gang, identified as Lovepreet Singh alias Labhi, Sunil Kumar alias Baba, Karan, Vicky alias Gandhi, Harmeet Singh alias Cheema, and Sahil Sharma alias Shallu and seized three pistols, a country-made revolver, and cartridges from their possession in Moga district. According to the police, Labhi, currently in jail, allegedly directed the gang's activities, leading authorities to procure a production warrant for him. The arrested individuals faced multiple criminal charges, with Gandhi and Baba having extensive criminal records in Moga.
Canada 10-Apr-2024
According to sources, in a top-secret intelligence briefing, Canada's Canadian Security Intelligence Service (CSIS) revealed China's "clandestine and deceptive" interference in the 2019 and 2021 federal elections. China aimed to sway outcomes in favour of candidates aligning with Beijing's interests. The public inquiry, led by Justice Marie-Josée Hogue, delves into these claims. Trudeau defended his government's response, citing increased measures to counter foreign interference since 2015, but cautioned about uncorroborated intelligence in the inquiry. Other nations like India and Pakistan were also implicated, with India allegedly engaging in interference to suppress support for a Khalistani separatist movement. Hogue is expected to release a final report with all details from the public inquiry in December 2024.
India 10-Apr-2024
Amritsar Police on April 10 arrested three associates of Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI)-backed terrorist and drug smuggler Harwinder Singh alias Rinda, as well as United States (US)-based gangster and drug peddler Harpreet Singh alias Happy Pachhia, identified as Mandeep Singh alias Arsh, Gagandeep Singh, and his brother Piara Singh and seized a 9 mm pistol along with five rounds from their possession in Amritsar district, Punjab.
Canada 10-Apr-2024
Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau stated on April 10 that he stands by his government's commitment to defending citizens' rights to speak out, even if it causes friction with the Indian government, during a testimony before the ongoing Public Inquiry into Foreign Interference in Federal Electoral Processes and Democratic Institutions, which is headed by Justice Marie-Josee Hogue in Ottawa, Canada. Trudeau highlighted allegations of Indian interference in Canada's internal affairs and referenced his concerns over the killing of Khalistani terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar. Additionally, Trudeau criticized the previous government's relationship with India, suggesting it was "cosy."
India 11-Apr-2024
Police on April 11 arrested Gurkirat Singh, a member of the Lawrence Bishnoi and Dipu Banur gang, and seized a country-made pistol and two live rounds from his possession in Mohali in Sahibzada Ajit Singh (SAS) Nagar district, Punjab. This arrest was made based on information provided by Aman Kumar, who was previously arrested on March 4, 2024.
India 11-Apr-2024
Delhi Police on April 11 announced the arrest of Satender Kumar alias Sikander, a sharpshooter associated with the notorious Lawrence Bishnoi gang from the outskirts of Delhi. He was apprehended based on specific intelligence indicating his participation in a recent extortion-related shooting on March 31 in Moti Nagar, West Delhi.
India 11-Apr-2024
Gunshots were fired at Punjab Police Inspector Gabbar Singh, who serves as the SHO Mataur in Mohali, while he was traveling in his bulletproof car in Kurali, Sahibzada Ajit Singh (SAS) Nagar district, Punjab, on April 11. Although the shooters managed to escape, police are actively investigating the case to determine if there is any potential gang involvement.
United Kingdom 11-Apr-2024
According to sources, the National Investigation Agency (NIA) has withdrawn Look Out Circulars (LOCs) for three individuals from Punjab in connection with the violence at the Indian High Commission in London. Initially, LOCs were issued against 15 suspects based on videos and photographs. However, after a thorough investigation, no evidence linking the three individuals to the incident was found, leading to the closure of their LOCs. The attack was orchestrated by Khalistani extremists, including Gurcharan Singh, Avtar Singh Khanda, and Jasvir Singh, resulting in criminal charges such as trespass, flag disrespect, and property destruction.
India 12-Apr-2024
Police on April 12 arrested one unidentified drug peddler and seized 500 grams of heroin from his possession, near Sarai Amanat Khan in Tarn Taran district.
India 12-Apr-2024
Khalra police on April 12 arrested two drug smugglers, identified as Lovepreet Singh Labha and Karanpreet Singh Karan and seized 200 grams of heroin from their possession, in Khalra village in Tarn Taran district.
India 12-Apr-2024
The Indian External Affairs Minister (EAM) S Jaishankar, speaking at an event in Pune, Maharashtra on April 12, emphasized India's steadfast commitment to combat terrorism originating from across borders. He stated that terrorists operate beyond the boundaries of rules and regulations. Jaishankar highlighted Pakistan as a challenging neighbour, attributing the difficulties in relations to India's historical approach.
India 12-Apr-2024
The National Investigation Agency (NIA) on April 12 seized an immovable property belonging to Khalistani terrorist Ramandeep Singh, following directives from a special NIA court in New Delhi, related to a case from August 2022. The seized property, measuring 31 kanals, 9 marlas, and 4 sarsahi, is located in Jhok Nodh Singh village in Ferozepur district of Punjab. Ramandeep Singh has affiliations with various terror outfits, including the Khalistan Liberation Force (KLF), Babbar Khalsa International (BKI), and the International Sikh Youth Federation (ISYF).
India 12-Apr-2024
Punjab Police's State Special Operation Cell on April 12 arrested Prabhpreet Singh, a member of the banned Khalistani terror outfit Khalistan Zindabad Force (KZF), at Indira Gandhi International (IGI) airport in New Delhi. Prabhpreet Singh was found to be running a terrorist recruitment and funding network from Germany. Further investigations unveiled that Prabhpreet Singh, in collaboration with his associate Jagdish Singh Bhura based in Belgium, facilitated funding and weapon procurement for associates in India, resulting in the arrest of four operatives and the seizure of weapons and ammunition.
India 12-Apr-2024
At a media briefing in New Delhi on April 12, Indian Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal welcomed the Taliban regime's decision to restore property rights to Afghan Hindus and Sikhs, describing it as a positive development.
India 12-Apr-2024
The Border Security Force (BSF) troops on April 12 recovered one packet of heroin weighing 510 grams from farming fields adjacent to Dhanoe Kalan village in Amritsar district.
India 12-Apr-2024
The Jalandhar Commissionerate Police on April 12 busted a cross-border drug network associated with the Jaipal Bhullar gang by arresting a key individual identified as Saaraj alias Bau and seizing 3 kg of heroin, two .32 bore pistols, and four cartridges from his possession in Jalandhar district. Initially, Saaraj was arrested with 200 grams of heroin, but further investigations based on his disclosure led to the seizure of 2.8 kg of heroin, along with two .32 bore pistols and four cartridges. Saaraj, previously involved in extortion and attempted murder, joined Jaipal Bhullar's criminal network after being released on bail in 2022. He orchestrated heroin trafficking from Pakistan in collaboration with another gang member, Chandu Firozepuria.
India 12-Apr-2024
On April 12, a spokesperson for the Canadian High Commission announced the dismissal of Indian staff from its diplomatic missions in New Delhi, India. The spokesperson also expressed sincere gratitude for the resilience, dedication, and service of its local staff in India.
Pakistan 13-Apr-2024
On April 13, Sikh pilgrims from various parts of the world, including 2,843 from India, arrived in Pakistan to celebrate Khalsa Janam Din and participate in the Baisakhi Mela festivities. The Indian pilgrims were warmly welcomed at the Wagah border in Lahore district and then transported to Hasanabdal via a special train for the main event at Gurudwara Panja Saheb on April 14 in Hassan Abdal, Attock district, Punjab province, Pakistan. The pilgrimage will also include visits to Nankana Sahib, Sacha Sauda, Gurudwara Darbar Sahib Kartarpur, and Gurudwara Rori Sahib before concluding on April 22.
India 13-Apr-2024
Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister (CM) Yogi Adityanath on April 13 while celebrating Baisakhi at Naka Hindola Gurudwara in Lucknow, expressed gratitude to the Sikh Gurus for their sacrifices, emphasizing the country's enduring appreciation and lauding their contributions to protecting religion and the nation. He also highlighted the significance of Guru Gobind Singh Maharaj's establishment of the Khalsa Panth.
India 13-Apr-2024
Haryana Sikh Gurdwara Management Committee (ad hoc) (HSGMC) spokesman Kawaljeet Singh on April 13 announced in Kurukshetra district, Haryana that the government has revoked its directive to banks regarding HSGMC transactions. The government had earlier instructed banks to suspend all financial transactions, which led to issues with staff salaries and gurdwara supplies. After protests and discussions between HSGMC representatives and the government, the directive has been withdrawn, restoring normal operations.
India 13-Apr-2024
In a joint operation, the Border Security Force (BSF) and the Crime Investigation Agency (CIA) staff of Punjab Police on April 13 arrested an unidentified drug smuggler and seized 30 grams of gold and INR 3 lakh in cash from his residence in Muhar Jamsher village, Fazilka district. According to the BSF, the coordinated efforts led to the apprehension of the suspected individual, who has a history of involvement in narcotics smuggling.
India 13-Apr-2024
Police on April 13 arrested an India Reserve Battalion constable posted at Amritsar Central Jail, identified as Mangat Singh Patti and seized 50 grams of heroin and tobacco from his possession in Amritsar district.
India 13-Apr-2024
A research team from the Jallianwala Bagh Chair at Guru Nanak Dev University (GNDU) recently uncovered 57 additional names of martyrs from the Jallianwala Bagh massacre, bringing the total count to 434 in Amritsar, Punjab. Led by Dr. Amandeep Kaur Bal and Dr. Dilbag Singh, the research project, commissioned by the Punjab Government, meticulously verified claims and documents across Punjab, Haryana, and Himachal Pradesh (HP).
India 13-Apr-2024
Police on April 13 arrested one person identified as Baj Singh and seized one country-made pistol and one cartridge from his possession, at Sheron village in Tarn Taran district.
India 13-Apr-2024
Vishva Hindu Parishad’s (VHP’s) Nangal unit president, Vikas Prabhakar alias Vikas Bagga, was shot dead by two unidentified assailants in his confectionery shop in Nangal, Rupnagar district, Punjab, on April 13. Police are investigating multiple angles, including premeditated murder, and analyzing CCTV footage for leads. The community is deeply saddened by this crime and seeks justice for Vikas Prabhakar's tragic death.
India 14-Apr-2024
The Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC) on April 14 unveiled plans to introduce QR code technology into the printing of Guru Granth Sahib scriptures, aiming to enhance accuracy and provide information. The executive committee of the SGPC also introduced leave policies for employees, and approved funding for a civil services training academy.
India 14-Apr-2024
Punjab Police on April 14 conducted ‘Operation Seal-VI’ at the state's borders from 8 am to 2 pm to curb the inflow of drugs and liquor during the Lok Sabha election campaign and seized INR 10 lakh cash, 110 kilograms of poppy husk, 1 kg of opium, 24 grams of heroin, and 228 litres of illicit liquor. The operation involved 1,500 police personnel manning 220 checkpoints across 10 border districts: Pathankot, Muktsar, Fazilka, Ropar, Mohali, Patiala, Sangrur, Mansa, Hoshiarpur, and Bathinda. The police searched 5,137 vehicles, impounded 22, fined 200, arrested 44 individuals, and filed 42 First Information Reports (FIRs).
India 14-Apr-2024
On April 14, Anmol Bishnoi, the brother of gangster Lawrence Bishnoi, claimed responsibility for firing at Salman Khan's home and issued a warning that next time, the bullets won't miss their mark, through Facebook post, shortly after the firing incident at Salma Khan's home in Mumbai, Maharashtra. Earlier, two bike-borne unidentified men, fired multiple rounds at actor Salman Khan’s Bandra residence. The incident led to increased security measures around Khan, who has been receiving death threats for years.
India 14-Apr-2024
On April 14, approximately 3,000 participants took part in the "Vaisakhi 5K Run," highlighting the theme of 'Say no to drugs,' in New Delhi.
India 14-Apr-2024
Police on April 14 arrested a Khalistani terrorist belonging to Khalistan Commando Force (KCF), identified as Parminder Singh Rana from Dingrian village in Jalandhar district of Punjab. Rana, a close associate of KCF chief Sukhdev Singh alias Sukha, had been evading authorities since being declared an absconder in the 1980s. He had been living clandestinely in Rajasthan following Sukha's demise. The arrest was made based on a tip-off received by the police.
India 15-Apr-2024
Recent intelligence reports indicate a leadership vacuum within pro-Khalistani entities, leading to a dilemma, with only a few advocating violence. Several meetings have been held in the United States (US) and Canada to identify new leaders, including Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, the chief of the banned Khalistani terror outfit Sikhs For Justice (SFJ). Disunity among Khalistani sympathizers is evident, with Pakistan-backed groups intensifying efforts in the United Kingdom (UK) and Canada. Indian agencies are closely monitoring these activities, warning against violent protests outside Indian consulates, and expressing concerns over human trafficking by pro-Khalistani elements.