The relationship between India and Canada is complex, marked by periods of cooperation and, more recently, significant strain. One of the key factors contributing to this strain is the ongoing issue of organized crime, particularly the activities of the Bishnoi gang. Canada has now formally listed the Bishnoi gang as a terrorist entity, a move that highlights the severity of the gang's alleged actions and their impact on the Canada-India relationship.
The Bishnoi gang, led by Lawrence Bishnoi, has been implicated in numerous criminal activities, including murder, shootings, arson, and extortion. The gang is known for instilling fear through intimidation, targeting not only individuals but also businesses and cultural figures within specific communities. This climate of insecurity has raised serious concerns for Canadian authorities, leading to increased pressure to take decisive action.
The decision to designate the Bishnoi gang as a terrorist entity comes after the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) accused the gang of orchestrating violent crimes against Canadian Sikhs advocating for an independent Sikh state. Allegations have also surfaced, linking Indian diplomats to criminal activity in Canada, including the harassment and targeted killings of Canadian Sikhs associated with the Khalistan movement. These allegations have further complicated the already tense relationship between the two countries.
The listing of the Bishnoi gang as a terrorist entity under Canada's Criminal Code enables authorities to freeze or seize any assets owned or controlled by the gang within Canada. It also makes it illegal for Canadians, both at home and abroad, to provide material support to the gang. This designation empowers law enforcement and immigration officials, providing them with more leverage to confront the gang's criminal activities.
This decision is seen as a step to repair strained relations between India and Canada, particularly after the killing of Hardeep Singh Nijjar in 2023. The Canadian government had expressed concerns to Indian intelligence and security officials, and the RCMP had previously highlighted India's links to organized crime in Canada, specifically mentioning the Bishnoi gang.
Despite these efforts, challenges remain. Pro-Khalistan groups continue to operate in Canada, and there have been instances of threats against Indian diplomats. The Canadian government has acknowledged the operation of Khalistani extremist groups with financial backing within the country and has classified some of these groups as terrorist organizations.
The situation is further complicated by the perception that the terrorism listing process has become overly politicized. Some experts argue that the Bishnoi gang does not meet the legal definition of terrorism, and the listing could be a "slippery slope". Additionally, there are concerns that local gangsters may falsely claim affiliation with the Bishnoi gang to instill fear and extort money from the community.
Despite these concerns, the Canadian government maintains that the designation of the Bishnoi gang as a terrorist entity is a necessary step to protect its citizens and combat organized crime. The move sends a strong message that Canada will not tolerate violence, intimidation, or any activity that threatens the safety and security of its communities. It remains to be seen how this decision will impact the long-term relationship between India and Canada, but it is clear that the issue of organized crime will continue to be a significant factor in shaping their ties.
