RCMP Links Indian Government Agents to Organized Crime Group ‘Bishnoi Group’. The Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) has accused agents of the Indian government of having ties to an organized crime syndicate known as the “Bishnoi group.” This accusation follows a diplomatic crisis between India and Canada, triggered by allegations that Indian agents were involved in the 2023 murder of a Sikh separatist leader near Vancouver. In response, both nations expelled six diplomats from each side in a tit-for-tat move.
The RCMP, which is investigating the case central to the current diplomatic rift, has asserted that Indian government agents are connected to the Bishnoi group. India’s National Investigation Agency (NIA) characterizes this group as a criminal organization led by Lawrence Bishnoi, who is currently imprisoned and faces over 40 criminal charges, including murder and extortion.
India has not yet publicly addressed the allegations linking its officials to the Bishnoi group, and the foreign ministry has not responded to inquiries from Reuters. The Indian government has previously dismissed Canadian accusations regarding the murder as “preposterous.”
Key Facts About Lawrence Bishnoi and His Associates
Who is Lawrence Bishnoi? Lawrence Bishnoi, a 31-year-old law graduate, has been incarcerated since 2015. Born in Punjab, he is described as short and lean, often seen with a beard during court appearances. The NIA alleges that he operates a transnational crime syndicate from prison, maintaining connections with associates in Canada and “pro-Khalistani” groups in countries like Nepal. However, Bishnoi has publicly stated his opposition to Khalistan, claiming he is not “anti-national.” An interview where he made these claims has since been removed, and authorities are investigating its origins.
Where is He Now? Bishnoi is currently held at Sabarmati Central Jail in Ahmedabad, Gujarat. Reports indicate that he has been moved between various prisons for safety reasons and to prevent him from violating jail regulations.
What Has Canada Accused Him Of? While Canada has not specified charges, the RCMP has indicated there has been “specific targeting” of Khalistan supporters in the country. They have named the Bishnoi group in relation to these actions and allege connections to Indian agents.
Are There Other Cases Against Him? Bishnoi faces multiple charges related to murder, extortion, and terrorism. The NIA has claimed that he and his associates aim to instigate terror through targeted killings of prominent social and religious figures, as well as celebrities and business leaders. One notable case is the 2022 assassination of popular Punjabi rapper Sidhu Moose Wala, which authorities have linked to Bishnoi’s associates.
In 2018, Bishnoi was recorded threatening Bollywood actor Salman Khan, and this year shots were fired near Khan’s residence, leading to police arresting two gunmen allegedly working on behalf of Bishnoi’s group. Recently, a lawmaker named Baba Siddique was shot dead in Mumbai, with a person claiming affiliation with Bishnoi’s group taking responsibility on social media; police have suggested Bishnoi orchestrated the attack, though without providing evidence.
What is Bishnoi’s Defense? Bishnoi’s lawyer, Rajani, states that he faces around 40 charges dating back to 2012 and maintains that he contests these allegations, with many trials still pending.
