Canada has officially declared India’s Bishnoi gang a terrorist entity. A move that underscores Ottawa’s intent to confront transnational organized crime while managing fragile ties with New Delhi. Public Safety Minister Gary Anandasangaree announced the decision on Monday. Highlighting that the designation equips Canada with “more powerful and effective tools” to counter the gang’s influence.
The Bishnoi network, notorious in India for contract killings and extortion, has gradually extended its reach beyond borders. Canadian authorities believe the group operates on Canadian soil. Using intimidation and financial channels to expand its operations.
Investigators have also suggested the gang’s possible involvement in the 2023 killing of Sikh activist and Canadian citizen Hardeep Singh Nijjar. Nijjar, a vocal supporter of the Khalistan movement, was shot dead outside a gurdwara in British Columbia, sparking outrage and international attention.
Following the assassination, Ottawa accused individuals connected to Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s government of colluding with the Bishnoi syndicate to suppress Sikh voices abroad. India strongly denied the claims, triggering a diplomatic standoff that saw both countries expel senior diplomats in retaliation.
In its formal statement, Canada described the Bishnoi gang as “a transnational criminal organization operating primarily out of India. With a presence in Canada, that generates terror through extortion and intimidation.” With its new terrorist entity designation, Ottawa gains authority to freeze assets, halt fundraising, and disrupt the gang’s support networks across borders.
This announcement also carries significant political weight. Prime Minister Mark Carney, who took office in March, has sought to rebuild fractured relations with India while advancing trade opportunities in Asia.
By targeting the Bishnoi gang, Canada signals a dual approach. Cracking down on organized crime while carefully recalibrating its partnership with India.
