KHALISTAN EXTREMISM MONITOR
A project of the Institute for Conflict Management
A project of the Institute for Conflict Management
31-May-2023
Punjab Police's Anti-Gangster Task Force's (AGTF) on May 31 arrested a member of the Bambiha gang, identified as Gurveer Singh alias Guri in connection with the murder of Jarnail Singh, from an undisclosed place in Punjab. The arrest was made with the recovery of a .32 calibre pistol and seven live cartridges. Preliminary investigations reveal that Gurveer Guri conspired with other gang members, including those presently abroad, to eliminate Jarnail Singh.
31-May-2023
Delhi's Patiala House Court on May 31 sent Lawrence Bishnoi to judicial custody until June 14 after his interrogation in a case related to the illegal arms supply to the Bishnoi-Jathedi Gang. The court decided that further police custody was not required.
30-May-2023
The National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT) on May 30 removed references to the demand for Khalistan, a separate Sikh nation, from its Class 12 political science textbooks. This decision came after a representation from the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC) expressing concerns about misrepresenting the Anandpur Sahib resolution. The SGPC claimed that the textbook interpreted the resolution as separatist and demanded its removal. NCERT formed a committee of experts, which recommended the removal of the contentious content and subsequently made the necessary changes.
30-May-2023
The Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC) on May 30 condemned government's actions against women Olympian wrestlers protesting for justice at Jantar Mantar in Delhi.
30-May-2023
Punjab Police on May 30 released pictures of 10 alleged members of the Bambiha gang who are believed to be involved in the murder of gangster Jarnail Singh. Eight of the accused have been identified, while the identity of two others is yet to be determined. The anti-gangster task force has uncovered the conspiracy and raids are underway to apprehend the suspects.
30-May-2023
According to sources, the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC) plans to exhibit the bullet-riddled copy of the Guru Granth Sahib 'Saroop' on the anniversary of Operation Bluestar on June 6. The damaged 'Saroop' was installed in the Golden Temple's sanctum sanctorum and retains the original bullet mark. Conservation experts repaired the damaged pages while preserving some marks of damage. The SGPC's executive body decided to display the holy 'Saroop' for public viewing on June 6 at Gurdwara Shaheed Baba Gurbaksh Singh.
29-May-2023
The National Investigation Agency (NIA) on May 29 filed a charge sheet against Lakhbir Singh Rode, the Pakistan-based chief of the banned Khalistan Liberation Force (KLF) and International Sikh Youth Federation (ISFY), for his alleged involvement in the 2021 Ludhiana Court complex blast. The blast resulted in one death and six injuries. According to the NIA, Rode smuggled Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs) from Pakistan into India to carry out explosions in Punjab. Another accused, Harpreet Singh alias Happy Malaysia, was arrested in December 2022. Both individuals have been charged under various sections of the Indian Penal Code and other relevant acts. The case was initially registered by Punjab Police and later taken over by the NIA.
29-May-2023
Indian External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on May 29 discussed with British Minister Lord Tariq Ahmad the need to protect India's diplomatic missions in the United Kingdom (UK) and prevent the misuse of democratic freedoms. The conversation followed the vandalization of the Indian High Commission in London by pro-Khalistan supporters. Jaishankar emphasized these concerns during his meeting and also touched upon various topics such as the Free Trade Agreement, South Asia, Indo-Pacific, and G20.
29-May-2023
The parallel Jathedar of Akal Takht, Bhai Dhian Singh Mand, on May 29 expressed concern over the declining reverence and sanctity of the Sikh community's supreme temporal seat. Mand, who is not recognized by the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC), plans to deliver his message from within the Akal Takht complex on June 6. He highlighted issues such as controversial pardons, sacrilege incidents, and allegations of favoritism towards a particular political party, urging the Jathedar to prioritize Sikh principles over political influences.
29-May-2023
The Border Security Force (BSF) and the Punjab Police, in a joint search operation, seized 4.2 kg heroin, near Dal village along the International Border in Tarn Taran district on May 29.
29-May-2023
The Border Security Force (BSF) personnel seized a Pakistani drone and recovered 2.7 kg of heroin from the International Border (IB) in Amritsar on May 29.
28-May-2023
Pro-Khalistan posters of Jarnail Bhindranwale were displayed outside the Golden Temple in Amritsar on May 28 ahead of the 39th anniversary of June 1984 ‘Operation Blue Star’. The posters pay tribute to the martyrs of the 1984 operation and invite people to various commemorative events.
28-May-2023
On May 28, a Pakistani drone was shot down, and a packet wrapped in yellow plastic tape was recovered in Amritsar sector in Amritsar district.
27-May-2023
The Border Security Force (BSF) on May 27 successfully shot down a Pakistani drone that entered Indian airspace in Amritsar.
27-May-2023
Khanna police arrested a member of an inter-state gang involved in illegal weapons trade, identified as Divesh along with five country-made 315 bore guns in Ludhiana district. Further investigation revealed that Divesh, who is from Haryana, had connections with gangsters in different states and was involved in supplying weapons in Punjab.
27-May-2023
The Border Security Force (BSF) shot down a drone near the India-Pakistan International Border and apprehended a smuggler with a narcotics consignment of 3.4 kg heroin in Amritsar on May 27.
26-May-2023
Gangster Lawrence Bishnoi was remanded to four-day custody by the Patiala House Court in an illegal arms supply case on May 26. The Delhi Police's special cell sought custody to interrogate Bishnoi regarding his alleged involvement in an Arms Act case, where 25 pistols were recovered from an arms trafficker who supplied weapons to Bishnoi's gang.
26-May-2023
The Golden Temple in Amritsar has installed a giant digital screen at its main entrance to educate visitors about the code of conduct to be followed while accessing the shrine. The screen displays information in Punjabi, Hindi, and English regarding the dos and don'ts, including guidelines on depositing footwear and luggage.
26-May-2023
An Intelligence Bureau (IB) report submitted to the Union Ministry of Home Affairs (UMHA) exposed Canada-based gangster cum Khalistani terrorist Lakhbir Singh alias Landa as key recruiter in Punjab. The report reveals the outfit's activities, including mobilizing youths for anti-India actions and supplying arms through over-ground workers. Landa's recruits are trained to issue extortion threats and transfer funds through Hawala channels. The report also highlights the involvement of Sikh expatriate communities in Canada and the arrest of sharpshooters involved in drone-dropped weapon shipments. Landa's role in the May 2022 RPG attack on Punjab police headquarters is also mentioned.
26-May-2023
Officials are concerned about jailed gangster Lawrence Bishnoi's obsession with wearing T-shirts featuring images of freedom fighter Bhagat Singh. They suspect it is part of an effort to build his image on social media. Instructions have been issued to restrict Bishnoi from wearing such T-shirts in Delhi and Punjab jails. Multiple social media accounts link Bishnoi to Bhagat Singh, and some posts are related to gang activities and gun sales. Guards are monitoring the clothes given to Bishnoi by his relatives, and prison rules authorize an IG-level officer to decide prisoners' clothing.
26-May-2023
Police in Vairoke arrested two individuals, identified as Ladhu Ram and Raju Ram and recovered 450 kg of poppy husk from them. in Gurdaspur district on May 26.
26-May-2023
Punjab Police's State Special Operation Cell (SSOC) arrested a member of a criminal gang, identified as Rahul alias Akash, and seized a .30 bore pistol and five cartridges from him in SAS Nagar district on May 26. Rahul and his associate, Sukh alias Subhash, both with a history of criminal activities, were planning to target rival gang members and acquire more weapons. While Rahul was apprehended, Sukh managed to escape.
26-May-2023
The Patiala House Court in Delhi on May 26 extended the custody of Amritpal Singh alias Ammy and Amrik Singh, who are allegedly associated with Canada-based terrorists Arshdeep Singh Dhalla and the Khalistan Tiger Force (KTF), by 10 days. They were arrested under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA) upon their deportation from Manila on May 19. The National Investigation Agency (NIA) is interrogating them regarding their involvement in recruiting youth for KTF, smuggling arms and ammunition, and raising funds for the organization. Non-bailable arrest warrants had been issued against them by the NIA court in a case related to the unlawful activities of banned organizations in India.
25-May-2023
The National Investigation Agency (NIA) on May 25 conducted raids on the hideouts of a gangster accused in the killing of Punjabi singer Sidhu Moosewala, Deepak Teenu in Bhiwani, Haryana. Deepak, an active member of the Lawrence Bishnoi gang, allegedly provided logistic support and hired shooters for the popular Punjabi singer's killing. Teenu, currently in jail, had previously escaped custody and was later apprehended with hand grenades.
25-May-2023
Lawrence Bishnoi, a notorious gangster, was on May 25 moved from a Gujarat jail to Mandoli prison in Delhi for security concerns. The decision was made after a recent gang-related killing in Tihar Jail. Bishnoi, accused in multiple cases including murder, was brought to Delhi amidst tight security. Previously, he was in the custody of NIA (National Investigation Agency), Punjab Police, and Gujarat Anti-Terrorist Squad (ATS).
25-May-2023
Police arrested two youths, identified as Gurinder Singh and Ranjan Singh and recovered 14 grams of heroin from them in Mohali on May 25.
25-May-2023
A Facebook post from gangster Davinder Bambiha on May 25 claimed responsibility for the killing of gangster Jarnail Singh in Amritsar. The post alleges Jarnail's links to other gangsters and states that he was not part of the Gopi Ghanshampuria gang. Jarnail, a member of the Gopi Ghanshampuria gang according to the police, was shot dead by four assailants in his village. The investigation into the motive behind Jarnail's murder is ongoing.
25-May-2023
Punjab Chief Minister (CM) Bhagwant Mann and his immediate family members have been provided 'Z-plus' category security cover by the Union Ministry of Home Affairs (UMHA) following a threat assessment report. The Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) will be responsible for the CM's security, with a team of 55 armed personnel assigned to the task.
25-May-2023
The Sadar police arrested two individuals, identified as Sukhmandeep Singh and Jagsir Singh, and seized 500 gm of opium from them on Thandewala Road in Muktsar in Sri Muktsar Sahib district on May 25.
24-May-2023
According to reports, the recent arrest of Lakhwinder Singh Lakha, a drug smuggler who used drones to fetch drugs from Pakistan, has raised concerns among security agencies about the practice of 'reverse drone sorties'. Smugglers purchase drones from New Delhi and send them to Pakistan to collect drugs, displaying their audacity in carrying out such activities. Lakha, arrested in Amritsar, claimed it was his first time using a drone, but the police suspected otherwise. This incident reignites worries after a previous case of drone sorties for drug smuggling was busted in 2020.
24-May-2023
Olympic wrestler Sakshi Malik seeks support from Akal Takht Jathedar for wrestlers protesting against the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) chief. She met with Jathedar Giani Harpreet Singh and shared the reasons for the protest and the demands of the wrestlers. Malik requested an appeal from the Sikh community to gather more support. Jathedar Harpreet Singh urged the Central Government to take the wrestlers' demands seriously.
24-May-2023
A gangster, identified as Jarnail Singh was shot dead by four armed assailants in broad daylight at Sathiala village in Beas sub-division, Amritsar district on May 24. Jarnail was out on bail at the time of the incident. The police suspect gang rivalry or personal enmity as possible motives for the killing.
24-May-2023
The Border Security Force (BSF) on May 24 apprehended a Pakistani intruder named Mohammad Sohail in Amritsar sector in Amritsar. Sohail was caught entering Indian territory without any documents.
24-May-2023
According to reports, Pakistan's Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) attempts to activate a narco-terror network in Punjab, India using drones and sea routes. Recent interceptions of drones carrying narcotics on the Punjab border highlight the preference for this method of smuggling. The rise in drone activity has prompted the involvement of locals and the implementation of security measures, such as Village Defence Committees. The Punjab Police emphasizes the need for coordination and proactive policing to counter this emerging threat, including the installation of CCTV cameras in border villages.
24-May-2023
According to reports, Punjab has become a leader in combating rogue drones and smuggling activities, outperforming Jammu and Kashmir. The Union Ministry of Home Affairs (UMHA) urged J&K's security grid to learn from Punjab's anti-drone mechanisms. The Border Security Force (BSF) and Indian Army's strategies were praised during a meeting attended by top officials. Punjab's success can be attributed to experimental anti-drone devices, expert officers, and improved coordination with Punjab Police.
23-May-2023
The special task force (STF) of Punjab Police on May 23 arrested a wanted accused, identified as Lakbhir Singh alias Lakha along with a Chinese-made drone, 1.6 kg of heroin, a pistol, and a rifle in Amritsar. Lakbhir Singh confessed to smuggling drugs and weapons and revealed his connections with Pakistani smugglers. The drone was used for bringing goods from Pakistan.
23-May-2023
The National Investigation Agency (NIA) team on May 23 left for London to investigate a pro-Khalistan protest outside the Indian High Commission on March 19. One staffer was allegedly attacked and the mission's property was damaged in the incident. The Indian government raised concerns about the misuse of UK's asylum status by pro-Khalistan elements during the India-UK Home Affairs Dialogue. The NIA team will gather CCTV footage, examine the crime scene, and record statements from senior officials. The attack is believed to have a terror link involving Pakistan's ISI, prompting the transfer of the case from Delhi Police to NIA.
23-May-2023
According to reports, in an attempt to disrupt the G20 Summit in Srinagar, Pakistani terror outfits, pro-Khalistan entities, and Canadian leaders were found to be creating anti-India sentiments to influence global leaders. The United Jihad Council (UJC) and Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) held a meeting, led by Syed Salahuddin and Hizbul Mujahideen leaders, to highlight the "Kashmir issue" before the international community. Separatist leaders and Pakistan-based lobbyists used social media platforms and fake accounts to shape global opinion. Pro-Khalistan entities in the UK and Canada also aimed to exert political pressure against the summit. Despite these efforts, the stringent security measures in place have prevented any reported incidents.
23-May-2023
Charge sheet was filed against Amritpal Singh's associates, in a case against Amritpal Singh, by Khilchian Police in the Baba Bakala court in Amritsar district on May 23. The next court appearance for the individuals is scheduled for May 29.
23-May-2023
For the first time in the last 10 years, the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbhandak Committee (SGPC) has not sent any visa requests to the Pakistan embassy for Jathas that visit the neighbouring country to observe the martyrdom day of Guru Arjan Dev, the fifth Guru of Sikhs. Pakistan has been denying visas to SGPC-planned jathas due to a dispute over the Nanakshahi calendar. The SGPC observes the martyrdom day according to the amended calendar, while the Pakistan Sikh Gurudwara Parbhandak Committee follows the 2003 version.
23-May-2023
The Shiromani Gurdwara Parbhandak Committee (SGPC) Chief Harjinder Singh Dhami on May 23 announced that open tenders will be called for the telecast of 'gurbani' (sacred hymns) from the Golden Temple. This comes in response to Punjab CM Bhagwant Mann's criticism of exclusive rights being granted to one TV channel for the telecast. Dhami stated that a five-member committee has been formed to decide the terms and conditions of the telecast.
23-May-2023
The National Investigation Agency (NIA) on May 23 offered INR 10 lakh reward for Kashmir Singh Galwaddi, a suspected associate of Canada-based gangster Arshdeep Singh Dhalla. Galwaddi is accused of involvement in terrorist activities and has been booked under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act. The NIA has also released two photos of Kashmir Singh.
23-May-2023
On May 23, the Border Security Force (BSF) intercepted a fifth Pakistani drone on the Punjab border in the last four days. These drones were found to have alleged narcotics attached to them
23-May-2023
The Special Task Force (STF) on May 23 arrested a drug and arms smuggler, identified as Lakhbir Singh alias Lakha along with a drone, 1.6 kg of heroin, and weapons in Amritsar district. Lakhbir Singh is being investigated for his alleged involvement in the Ludhiana court blast case.
23-May-2023
Pro-Khalistan leader and Waris Punjab De (WPD) chief, Amritpal Singh, along with his nine associates, was interrogated by National Security Agency (NSA) officers in Dibrugarh jail, Assam on May 23. Singh has been in custody since April 23 after being arrested in Punjab. The NSA officers questioned Singh and his associates separately for more than two hours.
22-May-2023
Gangster Lawrence Bishnoi on May 22 revealed his top 10 targets and future plans to the National Investigation Agency (NIA), aiding them in preventing potential murders, robberies, and extortion cases. Bishnoi disclosed his involvement in college politics and admitted to killing several individuals over the past decade. His targets included Bollywood actor Salman Khan, Sidhu Moosewala's manager, and various rival gang members. The NIA also discovered Bishnoi's extortion activities while imprisoned in Bharatpur and Faridkot jails, spanning across Rajasthan, Chandigarh, Punjab, and Delhi.
22-May-2023
Gurdeep Singh Khera, a former militant and terror convict, was admitted to Guru Nanak Dev Hospital in Amritsar, Punjab, after experiencing severe chest pain on May 22. Khera has been in jail since 1990 under the TADA (Terrorist and Disruptive Activities (Prevention) Act) and is serving a life sentence in two cases.
22-May-2023
The National Investigation Agency (NIA) on May 22 revealed that it suspects Lawrence Bishnoi's gun may have been used in the killing of gangster-politician Atiq Ahmed and his brother. Bishnoi confessed to targeting Bollywood actor Salman Khan and Sidhu Moosewala's manager as part of his plan.
22-May-2023
The Border Security Force (BSF) on May 22 shot down a Pakistani drone carrying drugs and recovered 3.3 kg of heroin near border in Amritsar in Punjab. The incident occurred during an operation conducted by the BSF troops, resulting in the successful interception and destruction of the drone.
22-May-2023
Gangster Jaggu Bhagwanpuria, a prime accused in the killing of Punjab singer Sidhu Moose Wala, was granted 7-day remand, in relation to a drug case, by a local court in Amritsar on May 22.