New Delhi asserts that the Justin Trudeau administration has failed to provide any evidence to support the claims despite numerous requests
Team Clarion
NEW DELHI — The Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) has claimed that “agents of the Government of India” are using the Bishnoi gang to target the South Asian community in Canada, particularly pro-Khalistani elements. The claim, articulated by RCMP Commissioner Mike Duhene and Deputy Commissioner Brigitte Gauvin, has further strained diplomatic relations between India and Canada, which deteriorated following the murder of Canadian citizen and Khalistani terrorist Hardeep Nijjar.
The Bishnoi gang — led by Lawrence Bishnoi from his prison cell in Gujarat’s Sabarmati Jail — has rapidly become one of the country’s most feared criminal organisations.
It even has a base in Canada, where gangster Goldy Brar is based.
During a press conference in Ottawa on Monday, Gauvin stated, “The Indian government is targeting the South Asian community, specifically focusing on pro-Khalistani elements in Canada. From our perspective, we have observed that organised crime elements are being employed.” She specifically cited the Bishnoi gang, alleging a direct connection between this criminal organisation and Indian government agents.
When pressed about whether these agents were implicated in crimes such as homicide, extortion, and intimidation, Duhene replied unequivocally, “Yes.” The officials further alleged that certain Indian diplomatic staff is collaborating with organised crime to gather information on Canadian citizens through questionable and illegal means, which is then relayed to criminal organisations that may resort to violent actions, including extortion and murder.
The Indian government has categorically dismissed what it describes as “preposterous imputations.” The External Affairs Ministry has condemned Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s accusations that New Delhi is involved in criminal activities targeting Canadians, asserting that the Trudeau administration has failed to provide any evidence to support these claims despite numerous requests.
The ministry also rejected Ottawa’s designation of Sanjay Kumar Verma, the Indian High Commissioner, and five of his staff as “persons of interest.” Following this designation, Canada expelled these six officials, claiming that India was not cooperating with its investigation.
In a subsequent statement, Trudeau reaffirmed his allegations against the Indian government, declaring, “It is obvious the Government of India made a fundamental error in thinking they could engage in supporting criminal activity against Canadians, here on Canadian soil. Whether it be murders, extortion, or other violent acts, it is absolutely unacceptable.” His remarks reflect increasing domestic pressure, with declining popularity and recent parliamentary challenges as he heads toward the upcoming 2025 elections.
The Bishnoi gang is allegedly involved in murder, arms trafficking, and extortion. It operates with an extensive network of around 700 hitmen, enabling it to function with relative impunity.
The recent assassination of former Maharashtra minister Baba Siddique further highlights the gang’s influence and reach, raising alarms about the ongoing issues of organised crime in India.