Canada has officially designated India’s Bishnoi gang as a terrorist entity, escalating pressure on the group’s operations. Authorities linked the notorious syndicate to assassinations and extortion in India and potential involvement in the 2023 killing of Sikh activist Hardeep Singh Nijjar near Vancouver.
Nijjar’s Murder Sparked Diplomatic Fallout
Hardeep Singh Nijjar, a Canadian citizen, was a vocal advocate for a separate Sikh state carved from India. He was shot dead in a parking lot in British Columbia in 2023. Following the attack, Canadian authorities accused individuals associated with India’s government of working with the Bishnoi group to silence Sikh activists abroad. India strongly denied the allegations, triggering a diplomatic rift that saw both nations expel senior diplomats.
Canadian Government Justifies Terrorism Designation
Public Safety Minister Gary Anandasangaree stated that the terrorism designation provides Ottawa with stronger tools to counter the Bishnoi gang’s influence. His office described the group as a “transnational criminal organization” operating mainly from India with an active presence in Canada. The statement further said the gang spreads terror through “extortion and intimidation,” posing risks to both communities and businesses.
Carney Seeks to Repair Ties With India: Canada Declares India’s Bishnoi Gang a Terrorist Entity
The decision comes as Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney seeks to stabilize relations with India after a period of deep mistrust. Carney, who took office in March, has emphasized Asia-focused trade expansion as a way to reduce reliance on the United States during its ongoing trade war. In June, he met with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi during the Canada-hosted G7 summit. Both leaders highlighted the importance of strengthening commercial ties despite political disputes.
Balancing Security and Diplomacy
While Canada’s move against the Bishnoi group demonstrates a firm stance on transnational crime, it also complicates ongoing efforts to repair diplomatic ties with New Delhi. Observers believe that future relations will hinge on balancing Canada’s security priorities with its strategic interest in trade and investment opportunities across Asia.
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