KHALISTAN EXTREMISM MONITOR
A project of the Institute for Conflict Management
A project of the Institute for Conflict Management
11-Dec-2023
The police on December 11 arrested six persons, identified as Aniket Talwara, Kartik Chinki, Varun, Sukhmandeep Singh, Gurkirat Singh, and Vikramjit Singh, and seized 51 grams of heroin, INR 70,000 in drug money, four weapons, and 14 cartridges from their possession near Bhai Chattar Singh Park in Ludhiana in Ludhiana district.
11-Dec-2023
Border Security Force (BSF) troops on December 11 recovered a drone along with 450 grams of heroin near the border fence in Roran Wala village in Amritsar district.
11-Dec-2023
Border Security Force (BSF) troops on December 11 recovered a packet containing 400 grams of heroin, with a metal ring attached to it, during a search operation in fields on the outskirts of Hardo Rattan village in Amritsar district.
11-Dec-2023
Border Security Force (BSF) troops along with Punjab Police, during a joint search operation, recovered a drone from a field on the outskirts of Dal village in Tarn Taran district.
11-Dec-2023
Border Security Force (BSF) troops along with Punjab Police, during a joint search operation, recovered three packets containing 3.182 kg of heroin stored inside a white waterproof bag with a strip of radium blinkers attached to it, from Dhyani Natha Singh Wala village in Fazilka district.
11-Dec-2023
On December 11, at a press conference held in Chandigarh, Yogesh Bahadur Khurania, Special Director General (SDG) of Western Command, Border Security Force (BSF), revealed that security agencies, including the BSF, are creating a database of individuals with criminal records and suspicious elements residing in border areas. The purpose is to monitor their activities and prevent cross-border smuggling. The collaboration with law enforcement agencies involves compiling data on individuals previously involved in smuggling or drug trafficking, who may pose a risk upon release. The initiative aims to enhance surveillance, especially in light of increased incidents of drones and narcotics smuggling along the International Border.
10-Dec-2023
According to a report by The Intercept, a secret memorandum titled "Action Points on Khalistan Extremism" from India's Ministry of External Affairs, dated April 2023, instructs its consulates in North America to launch a "sophisticated crackdown scheme" against Sikh diaspora organizations, especially those advocating for Khalistan.
10-Dec-2023
The spokesperson for the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), Arindam Bagchi, on December 10 strongly denied reports of a written order issued last April to address the threat of Khalistan sympathizers in Western countries. The denial came in response to The Intercept's report that such an order, signed by Foreign Secretary Vinay Mohan Kwatra, listed pro-Khalistan figures, including Hardeep Singh Nijjar, who was killed in Surrey, British Columbia, in June. Bagchi labelled the reports as "fake and completely fabricated," part of a "sustained disinformation campaign against India," and linked the outlet to propagating narratives by Pakistani intelligence.
10-Dec-2023
According to reports, there is considerable public anger in India over the perceived capitulation to United States (US) pressure in the alleged plot targeting Khalistan terrorist Gurpatwant Singh Pannun. The formal indictment of Nikhil Gupta for plotting the murder on US soil, allegedly orchestrated by an Indian government official (code-named 'CC-1'), has resulted in widespread discontent. Critics argue that the Indian government, which initially expressed concern and announced a high-level committee to examine security concerns raised by the US, has exhibited a weak response, with some describing it as a significant setback for India's national security image
10-Dec-2023
Amritsar Rural Police on December 10 busted a drug module being operated from Ferozepur jail, by arresting two individuals, identified as Bhupinder Singh and Rahul Singh, and seizing 1 kg of heroin, INR 32,000 in drug money, and three expensive mobile phones from their possession at BR Resort, located on the Amritsar-Attari bypass road near Khasa in Amritsar district. The investigation revealed that they were instructed by a jailed drug peddler named Prince to collect narcotics. Prince provided them with money and directions through Instagram.
10-Dec-2023
The Amritsar City Police on December 10 arrested five individuals in separate incidents for allegedly possessing narcotic substances in Amritsar district. The arrested individuals were identified as Raju, who was found with 20 grams of heroin; Roop Singh and Gagandeep Singh, each arrested with 15 grams of heroin; Mandeep Singh, arrested with 20 grams of heroin; and Kamal Kishore, arrested with 50 grams of heroin in Amritsar.
10-Dec-2023
Amritsar city Police on December 10 arrested an individual identified as Hasanpreet Singh and seized 180 grams of opium from his possession in Putlighar area in Amritsar district.
10-Dec-2023
The All India Sikh Students Federation (AISSF) on December 10 expressed objections to specific scenes in the film "Animal" and wrote a letter to the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC), firmly requesting the CBFC to promptly take action in removing these offensive scenes. They claimed that the scenes caused deep offense to Sikh sentiments.
10-Dec-2023
According to data shared in Parliament by Union Minister of State (Home) Nityanand Rai, Punjab, the second-highest state in drug-related arrests, has not received any funds from the Centre for narcotics control over the past five years, despite recording 16,831 arrests in 2022.
10-Dec-2023
The Border Security Force (BSF) and Punjab Police have observed a four-fold increase in the interception of Pakistani drones attempting to smuggle narcotics and weapons into India along the Punjab border, rising from 21 in 2022 to 91 in 2023 (until December 9). The spike is attributed to the use of smaller and cheaper Chinese drones, each costing around INR 1 lakh, compared to larger drones costing between INR 18 to INR 20 lakh. The intercepted drones are mostly China-made DJI Mavic 3 Classics, capable of carrying loads of 400 to 500 grams. Authorities employ anti-drone technology and conduct joint operations to counter this threat.
10-Dec-2023
Despite consistent requests from the Indian Government, Pakistan continues to charge a fee of USD 20 from every pilgrim visiting Kartarpur Sahib gurdwara through the Kartarpur Sahib Corridor. Minister of State in the Ministry of External Affairs, V Muraleedharan, in response to MP Manish Tewari's question in the Lok Sabha, mentioned the agreement for visa-free travel to Gurdwara Darbar Sahib and clarified that the Indian Government charges only visa fees from Pakistani applicants. Tewari emphasized the need for renewed efforts to waive the travel fee or for the Indian government to bear the entire burden.
09-Dec-2023
Police on December 9 arrested a smuggler identified as Deepak Kumar alias Kochar, and seized 5.020 kg of heroin from his possession at Aima Khurd village in Tarn Taran district. The smuggler is suspected to have collected the consignment brought from across the border using a drone.
09-Dec-2023
On December 9, during a general house meeting held in Amritsar, Punjab, the Chief Khalsa Diwan (CKD) urged the Central government to promptly release Sikh prisoners. The resolution, referencing the government's decision made on the 550th Parkash Purab of Sri Guru Nanak Sahib Ji, called for the immediate release of Bandi Singhs who have completed their sentences.
09-Dec-2023
A high-level panel meeting is scheduled to take place on December 9 in Amritsar, Punjab, led by Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC) President Harjinder Singh Dhami to engage in dialogue with the Union government regarding the mercy petition for Balwant Singh Rajoana. Rajoana is a death row convict in the assassination of former Chief Minister (CM) Beant Singh.
09-Dec-2023
Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) preacher Ravinderpal Singh received two threatening calls in the past month demanding the closure of RSS Shakhas in Tarn Taran district of Punjab. Security personnel have been assigned to protect Singh and two RSS Shakhas. The revival of Khalistan demands, supported by foreign-based terrorists and local Sikh bodies, poses a significant threat to communal harmony in Punjab, with terror organizations like Sikhs For Justice (SFJ) exacerbating tensions through financial incentives for Khalistan advocacy.
09-Dec-2023
The Shiromani Akali Dal (Amritsar) on December 9 organized a march under the leadership of Dal Khalsa, where supporters raised Khalistan slogans, causing disruptions in the markets and road blockages in Bathinda district of Punjab.
09-Dec-2023
The Border Security Force (BSF) in a joint operation with Punjab Police on December 9 recovered 520 grams of heroin along with a drone on the outskirts of Daoke village in Amritsar district. The recovered drone was a Quadcopter, DJI Mavic 3 classic, made in China.
09-Dec-2023
The Akal Takht on December 9 constituted a five-member high-level committee to explore ways for the release of Balwant Singh Rajoana, a death row convict in the assassination case of former Chief Minister Beant Singh, and other Bandi Singhs and decided to seek a meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi in a meeting held at the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC) office in Amritsar, Punjab.
09-Dec-2023
The Border Security Force (BSF) on December 9 intercepted a drone that had intruded into India and recovered it in a joint search operation with Punjab Police near Mabboke village in Ferozepur district.
08-Dec-2023
Balwant Singh Rajoana, a death row convict in the assassination of former Chief Minister (CM) Beant Singh, ended his hunger strike on December 8 after meeting with Akal Takht Jathedar Giani Raghubir Singh and others in Central Jail Patiala, in the Patiala district of Punjab.
08-Dec-2023
While addressing the Lok Sabha, the lower house of the Indian Parliament, on December 8, the Minister of State for External Affairs, V. Muraleedharan, stated that Canada has not provided India with specific and relevant information regarding allegations of Indian involvement in the killing of Khalistani terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar, and emphasized the government's rejection of allegations of its involvement in violence in Canada.
08-Dec-2023
The Pakistan High Commission on December 8 stated that it issued 104 visas to Sikh pilgrims from India to facilitate their visit to Shadani Darbar in Sindh, scheduled from December 12 to 23, in accordance with a bilateral protocol on religious shrine visits. This reciprocal arrangement allows Sikh and Hindu pilgrims from both countries to visit each other annually. Pakistan's Charge d'Affaires extended felicitations and wished the pilgrims a safe journey.
08-Dec-2023
The Rupnagar district police on December 8 organised a hockey match under the “Punjab Against Drugs” campaign at the Hawks Club in Rupnagar in Rupnagar district of Punjab. The event aimed to promote sports among the youth and create awareness against drugs.
08-Dec-2023
The Delhi Police on December 8 arrested two gang members associated with the Lawrence Bishnoi-Goldy Brar gang, identified as Akaash Kassa and Nitesh Sinti, for firing bullets at the west Delhi house of former Punjab legislator Deep Malhotra, from different locations in Haryana. The police also seized a stolen motorcycle, two guns, and seven bullets from their possession.
08-Dec-2023
The Ministry of Defence on December 8 informed the Lok Sabha that nearly 3 lakh widows of armed forces personnel reside in the north-western part of India, with Punjab having the highest number of registered widows at 74,253. Overall, the country has 6,98,252 widows, with Kerala and Uttar Pradesh ranked second and third, respectively.
07-Dec-2023
The Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson, Arindam Bagchi, stated on December 7 in New Delhi that they are in contact with the United States (US) and Canada regarding threats from Khalistani terrorists, including the designated terrorist Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, to attack the Indian Parliament and Air India. He also mentioned that India has sought cooperation from the US regarding Pannun, who is wanted for law violations. The ongoing conversations with partners involve addressing concerns about threats from extremists or terrorists against India or its diplomats.
07-Dec-2023
India’s External Affairs Minister (EAM) S Jaishankar, while speaking in the Parliament in New Delhi on December 7, clarified that India treats the United States (US) and Canada differently due to the security inputs provided by the US, prompting an inquiry committee to examine the national security implications. The clarification comes after the US charged an Indian national with a foiled plot against Khalistani terrorist Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, while Canada's allegations lacked specific evidence.
07-Dec-2023
The National Students' Union of India (NSUI) president in Punjab, Israpreet Singh, in Chandigarh, urged DAV College in Chandigarh to address Google search results associating gangster Lawrence Bishnoi with the college, expressing concern about the potential influence on the youth. The college clarified that they did not add Bishnoi's name and pledged to resolve the issue. Lawrence Bishnoi has a criminal record and affiliations with Khalistani terror outfits.
07-Dec-2023
According to reports, Lakhbir Singh Rode, the chief of the banned International Sikh Youth Federation (ISYF), and a nephew of Sikh militant Jarnail Singh Bhindranwale, passed away in Lahore at the age of 71, was among India's 20 most-wanted terrorists. Rode, who fled to Pakistan in 1996, faced charges including arms smuggling, IED blasts, and targeted killings in an attempt to revive terrorism in Punjab. The National Investigation Agency (NIA) was actively investigating six cases against him.
07-Dec-2023
Geopolitical experts suggest that India should exert pressure on the United States (US) and Canada to investigate their alleged shielding of Khalistani elements. Concerns have been raised about the US prioritizing strategic benefits in the Indo-Pacific over addressing India's security issues. The upcoming visit of the FBI chief is seen as an opportunity for dialogue, but doubts persist regarding the resolution of India's concerns.
07-Dec-2023
The Union Ministry of Home Affairs (UMHA) declared a total of 15 organizations as unlawful associations under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act between 2019 and 2023, including Sikhs for Justice (SFJ). The Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, amended in 2019, enables the designation of individual terrorists under Indian law to fulfil international obligations. The government has the authority to designate individuals as terrorists.
07-Dec-2023
According to reports, the influx of drones carrying pure-grade heroin from Pakistan into India has become a growing concern for the Border Security Force (BSF) and Punjab Police. A recent incident involved the discovery of 550 grams of heroin in the fields near the International Border in Gurdaspur district, prompting joint efforts by the BSF and police. The recurring use of sophisticated drones is believed to be sponsored by Pakistan, with a specific picket identified across the border as the origin point for these illicit activities. Despite talks with Pakistani Rangers, little progress has been made in addressing the issue.
07-Dec-2023
The recent murder of Sukhdev Singh Gogamedi, claimed by Lawrence Bishnoi's gang, highlights ongoing rivalries in organized crime in Rajasthan. Since 2014, Bishnoi has played a prominent role in criminal activities in the state, initially engaging in illegal liquor trade along the Punjab-Rajasthan border. Bishnoi's influence expanded through alliances with gangsters like Sampat Nehra, Kala Rana, and others involved in the illicit liquor business. Over the years, Bishnoi's criminal activities have diversified into illegal mining, opium trade, extortion, and his gang's involvement in high-profile murders and intimidation in Rajasthan.
06-Dec-2023
The Delhi Police on December 6 received a bomb threat call at both Indira Gandhi International (IGI) airport and the Paharganj area. and case has been registered against an individual identified as Tejpal Solanki, a resident of Delhi's Najafgarh area. Security at IGI airport, Ahmedabad, and Amritsar airports was heightened following a video threat by Khalistani terrorist Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, who claimed that Air India would be barred from operating on November 19.
06-Dec-2023
Delhi Police are on high alert following a video message by Khalistani terrorist Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, threatening to disrupt Parliament on December 13, the anniversary of the 2001 terrorist attack. Security has been intensified around Parliament and throughout Delhi, with authorities vowing to prevent any disturbances.
06-Dec-2023
The Akal Takht on December 6 urged Balwant Singh Rajoana, a death row convict in the 1995 Beant Singh assassination case, to end his hunger strike aimed at persuading the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC) to withdraw his mercy petition. The SGPC, which filed the petition in 2012, cites 'Panthic' sentiments as the reason for not withdrawing it.
06-Dec-2023
In a joint operation, the Border Security Force (BSF) and the Punjab Police on December 6 recovered one packet of heroin weighing 555 grams from a sugarcane field in Dugri village in the Gurdaspur district.
06-Dec-2023
The police on December 6 arrested three individuals, identified as Pawanjot Singh, Major Singh, and a juvenile and seized 4.155 kg of heroin worth over INR 20 crore in the international market from their possession near Mauzewala village in Fazilka district. The heroin was reportedly smuggled from Pakistan through a drone in two 2 kg consignments on December 5.
06-Dec-2023
Christopher A Wray, the Director of the United States (US) Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), is scheduled to visit India next week to discuss key issues, including the alleged plot to assassinate Khalistani terrorist Gurpatwant Singh Pannun. The plot involves an Indian citizen, Nikhil Gupta, and an unnamed official. This marks Wray's first visit to India since 2017, and he is expected to address concerns related to Khalistan terrorism, the gangster nexus, and Pakistan-sponsored terrorism in Jammu and Kashmir.
06-Dec-2023
According to sources, Lakhbir Singh Rode, the self-styled head of the International Sikh Youth Federation (ISYF) and nephew of the slain Khalistani militant Jarnail Singh Bhindranwale, played a significant role in reviving militancy in Punjab. He reportedly died due to a heart attack in Pakistan recently. Rode was involved in coordinating with Pakistan's Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) to smuggle arms and ammunition into Punjab. He had joined the Khalistan movement in 1982 and fled to Pakistan in 1991, participating in various terror activities against India.
06-Dec-2023
Official sources on December 6 revealed that Punjab Police had previously shared intelligence with Rajasthan, warning of a threat to Rashtriya Rajput Karni Sena chief Sukhdev Singh Gogamedi's life and linking it to plans by gangster Sampat Nehra to instigate religiously motivated riots in Rajasthan. Gogamedi was shot dead on December 5 by two individuals in the living room of his house in Jaipur, Rajasthan, and Rohit Godara of the Bishnoi gang has claimed responsibility for the murder.
06-Dec-2023
Security agencies on December 6 arrested two unidentified smugglers and seized approximately 1 kg of heroin from their possession near Nihale Kilcha village in Ferozepur district.
05-Dec-2023
Amritsar City Police on December 5 busted an interstate gang of arms smugglers run by gangster Simranjit Singh alias Jujhar, and arrested its key associate identified as Manak Singh alias Sunny Welding and seized four .32 bore pistols, four magazines, and seven live rounds from his possession in Amritsar in Amritsar district.
05-Dec-2023
The Punjab Police on December 5 conducted a special operation to combat drug trafficking, liquor smuggling, and monitor gangster activity by checking vehicles entering and exiting the state. Directed by the Director General of Police (DGP), Gaurav Yadav, the operation spanned from 8 am to 2 pm and involved checkpoints at 131 entry and exit points across 10 border districts. Approximately 1,200 police personnel were deployed, resulting in the checking of 3,760 vehicles, fines for 271, impounding of 46 vehicles, and legal action against 23 individuals, including 26 arrests and 211 for questioning.
05-Dec-2023
The Enforcement Directorate (ED) on December 5 conducted searches at 13 locations in Haryana and Rajasthan as part of a crackdown on gangster Lawrence Bishnoi and the Khalistani terror network. The focus was on Surender Singh Chiku, a close associate of Bishnoi, who operated through shell companies to launder proceeds of crime in mining, liquor, and toll businesses. The National Investigation Agency (NIA) has been investigating these networks since 2018 for extortion, murder, and kidnapping, leading to the seizure of electronic devices, documents, cash, and the identification of 60 bank accounts and 13 benami properties.