Canada Declares Bishnoi Gang a Terrorist Organization Amid India–Canada Tensions

In October last year, Canada’s then–Prime Minister Justin Trudeau told a parliamentary committee that India had allegedly been using criminal groups such as the Lawrence Bishnoi gang to target Canadian citizens who were outspoken critics of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s government.

India, however, has consistently denied any involvement in the killing of Hardeep Singh Nijjar or in any such operations abroad. Earlier this month, Canadian Foreign Minister Anita Anand told CBC News that Indian law enforcement agencies were cooperating with the ongoing investigation.

CNN reportedly reached out to India’s Ministry of External Affairs for comment, but New Delhi did not respond.

Bishnoi Gang Officially Listed as a Terrorist Entity in Canada

The Canadian government has now formally designated the Lawrence Bishnoi gang as a terrorist organization, citing its activities that allegedly spread fear among diaspora communities.

In a statement, Canada’s Public Safety Department said the Bishnoi network has been involved in murders, shootings, and arson attacks, often relying on intimidation and extortion to create fear. The group’s targets reportedly include local business owners, cultural figures, and influential community members.

The World Sikh Organization of Canada welcomed the move, claiming the Bishnoi gang has acted as a proxy tool for India’s campaign of suppression against Sikh voices abroad, including the assassination of Hardeep Singh Nijjar.

Following the designation, Canadian authorities now have the legal power to freeze the gang’s assets, restrict its funding channels, and prosecute anyone linked to its operations.

Bishnoi Remains Defiant Behind Bars

Despite facing dozens of criminal cases and being imprisoned for years, Lawrence Bishnoi appears unshaken and confident.

In an interview with ABP News last year, Bishnoi said, “I have no problem being called a gangster — it’s the identity given to me by God.”

He added, “After spending nine years in jail, I no longer dream of becoming a good man. I’m fine with who I am.”