Canada designates Bishnoi gang as terrorist group for spreading fear and targeting communities

OTTAWA, Sept 29: In a significant move reflecting growing concerns over transnational organised crime, Canada on Monday officially designated the Bishnoi gang as a terrorist entity, citing its role in creating a “climate of fear and intimidation” through violent activities. The decision marks a major escalation in Ottawa’s response to gang-linked threats and underscores its commitment to safeguarding public safety and social harmony.

“Acts of violence and terror have no place in Canada — especially those aimed at specific communities to sow fear and intimidation,” the Canadian government said in an official statement, warning that the country will not tolerate extremist criminal networks operating on its soil.

The decision comes just over a week after a high-level meeting in New Delhi between India’s National Security Advisor Ajit Doval and his Canadian counterpart Nathalie Drouin, where the growing activities of organised crime groups with links to Canada were reportedly discussed in depth.

The Bishnoi gang, led by notorious gangster Lawrence Bishnoi, has been linked to numerous high-profile violent incidents and targeted killings in India, including threats against public figures and cross-border criminal activities. Canadian authorities said the designation empowers law enforcement agencies to freeze assets, disrupt financial networks, and prosecute individuals associated with the gang under anti-terror laws.