KHALISTAN EXTREMISM MONITOR
A project of the Institute for Conflict Management
A project of the Institute for Conflict Management
12-Nov-2023
Gokul Setia, the 34-year-old grandson of former Haryana Home Minister Laxman Das Arora, approached the Punjab and Haryana High Court expressing concerns about threats to his life from the Bambiha group in Chandigarh. He sought directions from the court for security measures for his family. Setia, a politician from Sirsa, cited information from the State Special Operations Cell (SSOC) about a plot targeting him. He had previously received security after Punjab Police acknowledged the threat in February.
12-Nov-2023
Akal Takht Jathedar Giani Raghbir Singh on November 12 instructed Delhi Sikh Gurdwara Management Committee (DSGMC) officials to expedite the decision on Balwant Singh Rajoana's mercy plea. Rajoana, a death row convict in the assassination case of former Chief Minister (CM) Beant Singh, had earlier urged the Akal Takht to direct Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC) to withdraw the mercy plea, threatening a hunger strike.
12-Nov-2023
Akal Takht Jathedar Giani Raghbir Singh on November 12, at the Golden Temple in Amritsar, Punjab, called for unity among Sikh organizations to secure the release of individuals who have served their prison terms (Bandi Singhs). He emphasized the lack of government efforts in this regard.
11-Nov-2023
On November 11, the eve of Bandi Chhor Divas, Sikh Youth of Punjab activists held prayers at Sachkhand Darbar Sahib in Amritsar, Punjab, praying for the well-being, high spirits, and freedom of the Bandi Singhs. They carried placards with pictures of Jaggi Johal, Sandeep Singh Sunny, and Amritpal Singh, urging their release. The youth organization vowed to continue their democratic struggle against what they perceived as the government's injustice towards Sikh political prisoners, emphasizing the prisoners' right to be released after completing their sentences.
11-Nov-2023
According to sources, Pakistani smugglers are utilizing sophisticated drones to transport narcotics into India, leading to the recovery of 82 unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) and 593 drone sightings along the India-Pakistan border since 2019 by the Border Security Force (BSF) and Punjab Police. Central agencies suspect that these UAVs are used to finance and supply weapons to pro-Khalistan entities on the Indian side. Recent seizures include substantial quantities of heroin, RDX, IEDs, firearms, and cash. The Indian security establishment alleges a nexus between Pakistan's Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI), narco-terrorism networks, and cross-border linkages, with evidence pointing to their collaboration.
11-Nov-2023
Members of the 1984 Sikh Katle Aam Peerat Welfare Society, having failed to meet Chief Minister (CM) Bhagwant Mann on November 11, met Akal Takht Jathedar Raghbir Singh in Amritsar, Punjab. They urged the Jathedar to press the government for their demands, including increasing widow pensions to INR 10,000 per month, 5% job reservation for anti-Sikh riot victims, and the allocation of booths and houses, as directed by the Punjab and Haryana High Court.
11-Nov-2023
The Border Security Force (BSF) is receiving support from residents, especially farmers, in combating drug smuggling along the India-Pakistan border, according to Yogesh Bahadur Khurania, the Special Director General of BSF's Western Command. An awareness campaign initiated by the force in Punjab's border areas has yielded positive results, with local residents, particularly farmers, providing information about suspicious contraband activities.
11-Nov-2023
Police on November 11 arrested three drug peddlers, identified as Jobanjit Singh alias Joban, Lovepreet Singh alias Love and Gurjant Singh, and seized 51 grams of heroin along with two electronic scales and a motorcycle from their possession in Chheharta in Amritsar district.
10-Nov-2023
The Lucknow Gurdwara Prabandhak Committee (LGPC) on November 10 denounced the terror threat on flights made by Khalistani terrorist Gurpatwant Singh Pannun. They expressed concerns that Pannun may be serving divisive political interests, contending that his rhetoric aims to tarnish the reputation of Sikhs globally, despite their commendable contributions through sewa (selfless service).
10-Nov-2023
On November 10, during the 2+2 ministerial meeting in New Delhi, India's Foreign Secretary Vinay Kwatra expressed serious concerns to the United States (US) about the heightened activities of pro-Khalistani extremists in Canada.
10-Nov-2023
During his meeting with the Indian External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar in New Delhi on November 10, United States (US) Secretary of State Antony Blinken urged India to collaborate with Canada's investigation into the murder of Khalistani terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar. Blinken emphasized the importance of both nations working together to address differences during the 2+2 summit between the US and India.
10-Nov-2023
The National Investigation Agency (NIA), on November 10, filed a third charge sheet at a Delhi court in the case related to gangster Lawrence Bishnoi and the Babbar Khalsa International (BKI) terror network. The charge sheet names Darman Singh alias Darmanjot Kahlon, Parveen Wadhwa alias Prince, Yudhvir Singh alias Sadhu, and Vikas Singh. It includes details about the accused individuals' involvement in terror-related activities. The total number of accused persons charged in the case has now reached 21.
10-Nov-2023
Police on November 10 arrested three associates of the Bambiha gang, identified as Jagjeet Singh, Anmol Singh and Manpreet Singh, and seized two illegal weapons, including a .32-bore pistol and a .30-bore pistol, apart from 10 live cartridges and a motorcycle from their possession in Mohali in Sahibzada Ajit Singh (SAS) Nagar district. The arrested individuals were working on the instructions of gangster Lucky Patial, operating the gang from Armenia.
10-Nov-2023
According to reports, the United Kingdom's (UK) decision to add India to its 'safe states' list and restrict asylum rights for illegal migrants is not expected to significantly impact the Doaba region in Punjab, known for extensive migration. Travel agents note that the trend of seeking asylum in the UK has decreased over the years, with the United States (US) and Canada becoming preferred options. Recent data shows a higher number of Indians crossing the US borders illegally compared to those seeking refuge in the UK.
10-Nov-2023
The Border Security Force (BSF) on November 10 recovered a Chinese-made drone from the compound of a house in Naushera Dhalla village in Tarn Taran district, based on specific information during a search operation.
10-Nov-2023
The National Investigation Agency (NIA) on November 10 filed a supplementary charge sheet in the Khalistan Tiger Force (KTF) case before a special court in Delhi, implicating individuals identified as Amritpal Singh alias Ammy and Amrik Singh, both of whom were deported from the Philippines. The charge sheet also named Jassa Singh and Gagandeep Singh alias Mithi. According to the charge sheet, the Canada-based gangster and Khalistani terrorist Arshdeep Singh alias Arsh Dalla, along with Manpreet Singh, orchestrated recruitment, targeted killings, and extortion to raise funds for KTF. Investigations revealed a systematic channeling of extortion funds abroad, primarily aimed at fuelling terrorist activities in India. KTF operatives were found to be involved in arms and explosives smuggling through drones.
09-Nov-2023
The chief of the banned Khalistani outfit Sikhs For Justice (SFJ), Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, while speaking to CTV News, denied making violent threats to travellers, attributing it to an Indian disinformation campaign. However, Canadian authorities remain tight-lipped, investigating online threats without confirming any action. Pannun had earlier issued threats urging travellers not to fly on Air India on November 19, 2023.
09-Nov-2023
The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) Spokesperson, Arindam Bagchi, on November 9 strongly condemned the threats against Air India flights made by Khalistani terrorist Gurpatwant Singh Pannun and emphasized India's commitment to urging foreign governments to deny space to such elements.
09-Nov-2023
Jathedar of Akal Takht, Giani Raghbir Singh, on November 9 instructed the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC) to expedite efforts for the release of Balwant Singh Rajoana and other Sikhs imprisoned after completing their sentences, in Amritsar, Punjab. He emphasized the implementation of the Panj Singh Sahibs' 2012 directive, urging the SGPC to mobilize Sikh organizations, Sangat, and various sects to strategize and work towards the release. Giani Raghbir Singh criticized the government for not meeting the constitutional demands during a signature campaign for Rajoana's release and called for swift action to address Sikh sentiments. The SGPC's campaign, seeking the release of Sikh political prisoners known as 'Bandi Singhs,' has faced obstacles, as its signature campaign with 26 lakh global signatories has not resulted in an audience with the President of India.
09-Nov-2023
The Punjab and Haryana High Court on November 9 expressed 'grave concern' over the interview of alleged gangster Lawrence Bishnoi by a news channel in Chandigarh. The court emphasized the need to identify and take action against the officers who permitted or facilitated the interview.
08-Nov-2023
According to sources, India’s Ministry of Information and Broadcasting has invoked emergency powers to block apps, websites, and social media accounts affiliated with UK-based Punjab Politics TV, linked to the banned Khalistani terror outfit Sikhs For Justice (SFJ). The action was taken in response to intelligence inputs indicating attempts to disrupt public order during state assembly elections. It was executed under IT Rules due to content promoting communal disharmony and separatism, posing threats to India's sovereignty and public order. The government emphasized its commitment to safeguarding the nation's information environment and preventing actions that undermine sovereignty.
08-Nov-2023
The National Investigation Agency (NIA) on November 8 froze assets worth INR 1,34,12,000 belonging to Amritpal Singh, a charge-sheeted accused in a case involving the recovery of 102.784 kg of heroin valued at approximately INR 700 crores in Amritsar, Punjab. The case, initially registered by Indian Customs, revealed a smuggling network orchestrated by Dubai-based accused Shahid Ahmed, involving Afghan-based co-accused Nazir Ahmed Qani and Delhi-based accused Razi Haider Zaidi.
08-Nov-2023
Punjab's Director General of Police (DGP), Gaurav Yadav, on November 8 directed all Commissioners of Police (CPs) and Senior Superintendents of Police (SSPs) to develop an Action Plan against organized crime, drug trafficking, and stubble burning via a video conference meeting. During the meeting, the DGP emphasized collaboration with the Civil Administration to prevent stubble burning, which necessitates daily meetings with District Magistrates.
08-Nov-2023
Harjinder Singh Dhami on November 8 was elected as president of the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC) for the third consecutive term in Amritsar. During the election session, Dhami secured 118 out of 137 votes, with the opposition candidate, Balbir Singh Ghunas, receiving 17 votes.
08-Nov-2023
The general house of the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC) on November 8 passed resolutions in Amritsar, Punjab, urging India and Canada to improve relations amid a diplomatic row. The resolution on India-Canada relations expressed concern about the hate propaganda faced by Sikhs and Punjabis, calling for serious consideration from both governments. The SGPC also addressed issues such as the release of Sikh prisoners, opposition to the Sutlej Yamuna Link (SYL) canal, and the simplification of voter registration processes.
08-Nov-2023
The general house of the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC) on November 8 passed resolutions urging the release of Sikh political prisoners, simplification and extension of the SGPC's voter registration process, an end to discrimination against the Punjabi language in other states, preservation of Sikh heritage in Pakistan, and support for Punjab on water issues, especially the SYL canal, in Amritsar, Punjab. Members emphasized the violation of human rights in the continued detention of Sikh prisoners despite completing their sentences.
07-Nov-2023
Balwant Singh Rajoana, who is on death row for the 1995 assassination of Punjab’s Chief Minister (CM) Beant Singh, on November 7 warned of a hunger strike if the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC) does not withdraw his mercy petition within 7 to 10 days in Patiala, Punjab. Rajoana, who has been in jail since 1995, appealed to Akal Takht Jathedar Giani Raghbir Singh to instruct the SGPC to withdraw the petition. He expressed frustration over the prolonged delay in deciding his appeal and emphasized his detachment from political motives. Rajoana was sentenced to death in 2007 for Beant Singh's assassination, and the hanging was deferred in 2012 after the SGPC filed a mercy petition.
07-Nov-2023
The Border Security Police (BSF) on November 7 arrested an unidentified drug smuggler and seized 1 kg of heroin and two motorcycles from his possession in Bachhiwind village in Amritsar district. The BSF intercepted a drone on the night of November 7-8, leading to the discovery. During a joint search operation with the Punjab Police, conducted on November 8 morning recovered the heroin from fields near Bachhiwind village.
07-Nov-2023
The leader of the All-India Anti-Terrorist Front (AIATF), Maninderjeet Singh Bitta alias MS Bitta, called for the arrest of Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, the chief of the Khalistani terror outfit Sikhs For Justice (SFJ), on November 7 while addressing media persons in Amritsar. Bitta also criticized Pannun's recent statement warning Sikhs not to fly on Air India planes after November 19, deeming it a potential human rights violation. He questioned Pannun’s call for a global blockade and the closure of Indira Gandhi International (IGI) Airport on that day.
07-Nov-2023
The National Investigation Agency (NIA) on November 7 conducted searches at eight locations in Punjab, Uttarakhand, and Uttar Pradesh in connection with a heroin seizure case. The narcotics, specifically heroin, were intercepted at the Integrated Check Post (ICP) in Attari, located in the Amritsar district of Punjab, concealed within a consignment of licorice root originating from Afghanistan. The NIA re-registered the case to investigate not only the drug seizure but also the roles of multiple companies and individuals involved in the drug racket. Four suspects were charged in December 2022, and the recent searches resulted in the recovery of significant incriminating materials.
07-Nov-2023
Border Security Force (BSF) on November 7 recovered a drone from fields near Rajatal village in Amritsar district. The drone was a China-made DJI Mavic-3 Classic quadcopter.
07-Nov-2023
In a joint search operation, the Border Security Force (BSF) and the Punjab Police on November 7 recovered a China-made DJI Mavic-3 Classic quadcopter drone near Dhanoe Khurd village in the Amritsar district.
07-Nov-2023
The election for the president, other office-bearers, and the executive body of the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC) is set to take place on November 8 in Amritsar, Punjab. Harjinder Singh Dhami, the current chief of the SGPC, is the Shiromani Akali Dal's (SAD) nominee for the SGPC president's post for the next annual term. However, rebel Akali leaders, including Balbir Singh Ghunas, a former SAD Member of Legislative Assembly (MLA) and Barnala SGPC member, are challenging Dhami's candidacy. Ghunas, who was expelled from SAD, aims to bring transparency and maintain the supremacy of the Akal Takht in the SGPC.
07-Nov-2023
India has significantly heightened security measures at airports, implementing increased checks and restrictions, in response to a recent threat from Khalistani terrorist Gurpatwant Singh Pannun. He openly threatened to blow up an Air India flight on November 19, 2023. Authorities are taking these threats seriously, engaging diplomatic channels with countries from where the threats originate to ensure passenger safety and national security.
07-Nov-2023
According to sources, India has urged Canada to enhance security measures for Air India flights in response to a recent threat from Khalistani terrorist Gurpatwant Singh Pannun. Pannun openly threatened to blow up an Air India flight on November 19, 2023, and additionally called for a global blockade against the airline. He made references to the Cricket World Cup final on that day, coinciding with the birth anniversary of the late Prime Minister (PM) Indira Gandhi.
07-Nov-2023
Passengers boarding Air India flights from New Delhi's Indira Gandhi International (IGI) Airport and Punjab face additional security checks due to a recent threat from Khalistani terrorist Gurpatwant Singh Pannun. He openly threatened to blow up an Air India flight on November 19, 2023. The Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS) has temporarily suspended the sale of visitor entry passes at Delhi airport until November 30. Additionally, visitor access to the terminal building at IGI Airport has been prohibited until the same date in response to these security concerns. Moreover, BCAS has mandated a 100% secondary ladder point check requirement for all Air India flights at 161 airports, including those in Punjab, to enhance security measures. India has also urged Canada to bolster security for Air India flights and take action against the individual behind the threat.
06-Nov-2023
Zirakpur police on November 6 arrested an associate of gangsters Lawrence Bishnoi and Goldy Brar, identified as Manjeet Singh alias Guri, and seized two weapons, including a .30-bore Chinese pistol and a .32-bore pistol, along with 15 live cartridges and a Hero Splendor motorcycle from his possession following a shootout on VIP Road in Zikapur in Sahibzada Ajit Singh (SAS) Nagar district. During the incident, Manjeet was shot in the leg, and his accomplice managed to escape with two 9 mm weapons. The two were allegedly tasked with eliminating a Zirakpur-based businessman by gangsters Goldy Brar and Saba USA.
06-Nov-2023
A viral video showed around 50 youths wielding weapons and marching near government officials' residences in Faridkot, causing panic among residents in the Faridkot district. Seven of the individuals in the video were identified and detained by the police, who are actively searching for the others, leading to the registration of a case under Section 160 of the Indian Penal Code (IPC).
06-Nov-2023
Police on November 6 arrested a drug smuggler, identified as Harpal Singh, and seized 3.770 kg of heroin from him near Khemkaran village in Tarn Taran district. During the arrest, the police found 610 grams of heroin in his possession and recovered an additional 3.160 kg of heroin from the nearby fields of farmer Somjit Singh based on Harpal Singh’s disclosure.
06-Nov-2023
According to experts, diplomatic relations between India and Canada remain strained following mutual accusations related to the murder of Khalistani terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar. Although India recently partially restored visa services, seen as a small step, it has not led to a significant breakthrough in improving relations. Both countries are unlikely to take major reconciliation steps soon, given Canada's ongoing murder investigation and India's upcoming national elections. The crisis has hindered the movement of Indians in Canada and delayed discussions on a free-trade deal, impacting Canada's Indo-Pacific plans and threatening relations between the two nations, despite their historical ties and strong people-to-people connections.
06-Nov-2023
The Border Security Forces (BSF) on November 6 recovered a drone along with 250 grams of heroin from the fields adjacent to Roranwala Khurd village in Amritsar district.
05-Nov-2023
The crime branch of the Goa police, in collaboration with a special unit of the Amritsar Rural police, on November 5 arrested two individuals in connection with murder and Arms Act cases, identified as Samlval Gurunan Singh and Amrit Kewal Singh in Zuarinagar near Vasco town in South Goa. Samlval Gurunan Singh was sought in connection with four murders, while Amrit Kewal Singh faced charges under the Arms Act. These cases originated from the Jadiala police station in Punjab.
05-Nov-2023
Bibi Balwinder Kaur, the mother of Amritpal Singh, a Pro-Khalistani leader and chief of Waris Punjab De (WPD), along with related families, on November 5 conducted prayers at Sri Akal Takht Sahib in Amritsar, Punjab, for the release of Amritpal Singh and other captive Singhs.
05-Nov-2023
The Delhi Police Special Cell arrested a key associate of Khalistani terrorist Arshdeep Singh alias Arsh Dalla, identified as Manpreet Singh alias Peeta, and his associate Mandeep Singh, for making extortion calls to businessmen across Northern India and assisting Dalla in his activities. Peeta had previously been deported from the Philippines due to alleged illegal activities. He had been collecting funds for the banned Khalistani terrorist organization Khalistan Tiger Force (KTF). Peeta also served as a recruiter for Dalla, luring individuals from Punjab to join the KTF. He was involved in extortion activities and arms smuggling in coordination with Dalla. Peeta will be questioned further about his involvement.
05-Nov-2023
Punjab police on November 5 arrested two drug smugglers, identified as Arshdeep Singh alias Arsh and Rajpreet Singh alias Raj, and seized 2 kg of heroin and a Mahindra Scorpio SUV from their possession in Chohla Sahib in Tarn Taran district. The arrests followed a 40 km hot chase from Bhikhiwind to Chohla Sahib, during which one of the suspects was injured while attempting to escape from the moving vehicle.
04-Nov-2023
Former Indian cricketer Aakash Chopra on November 4 called for the arrest of Khalistani terrorist Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, who recently threatened individuals planning to travel via Air India on November 19. Earlier, Pannun, the chief of the Khalistani terror outfit Sikhs For Justice (SFJ), urged Sikhs to avoid Air India flights on that day.
04-Nov-2023
Khalistani terrorist and the chief of the banned Khalistani terror outfit Sikhs For Justice (SFJ), Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, issued a warning on November 4 via a video message which cautioned Sikh people against flying via Air India on November 19, claiming that doing so could endanger their lives. Pannun's video message also asserted that there would be a global blockade against Air India operations on that day. He further suggested renaming Delhi's Indira Gandhi International (IGI) Airport as "Shahid Beant Singh and Shahid Satwant Singh Khalistan Airport" once Punjab is "liberated." The warning comes amid persisting tensions between India and Canada over allegations of Indian involvement in the shooting of Khalistani terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar, a claim denied by India.
04-Nov-2023
The Batala Police, on November 4, dismantled an extortion racket operated by gangster Harry Chatha with the arrest of its key associate identified as Navneet Singh alias Nav, along with Gagandeep Singh, alias Kaala, Balraj Singh alias Baaz, and Prem Kumar alias Ghulla from Balpurian village in the Gurdaspur district. They seized four pistols - including a Glock and three country-made pistols - along with live cartridges, two motorcycles used in the crime, and one car from their possession. They were arrested when, acting on a tip-off, the police confronted their car, prompting the occupants to open fire. In the ensuing shootout, a suspect, Navneet Singh, was injured, and a police officer sustained minor injuries. The other three accused persons, identified as Harpreet Singh, alias Preet, Sukhraj Singh, and Darshan Singh, alias Darshi, were brought on a production warrant from different jails for providing logistic support to the racket.
04-Nov-2023
According to reports, the personal life of Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, the chief of the banned Khalistani terror outfit Sikhs For Justice (SFJ), including his marital status, is not publicly known, as he has maintained privacy about it. His family background includes his father, Mohinder Singh, mother, Amarjit Kaur, and a sibling named Magwant Singh Pannun, who possess substantial assets, including agricultural land and ownership of a local school and college in Khankot village in Amritsar District of Punjab.
04-Nov-2023
The Crime Investigation Agency (CIA) on November 4 arrested two drug peddlers identified as Gagandeep Singh and Kulwant Singh, seizing 28,500 intoxicating tablets from their possession in Fazilka district.