An RCMP report has raised alarming concerns regarding the Lawrence Bishnoi gang and its alleged collaboration with the Indian government. This classified document highlights the gang’s ongoing presence in Canada, describing it as a violent organization involved in serious criminal activities such as extortion and murder-for-hire.
Key Findings of the RCMP Report
The report, recently released under the Access to Information Act, outlines several critical points:
- The Bishnoi gang is characterized as a violent criminal organization with an expanding reach in multiple countries, including Canada.
- It engages in extortion, drug trafficking, money laundering, and contract killings, primarily motivated by financial gain.
- Multiple references within the report indicate that the gang operates on behalf of the Indian government to further its interests.
Political Context and Reactions
British Columbia Premier David Eby’s statement on June 17, 2025, called for the Bishnoi gang to be designated a terrorist organization. This request coincided with Eby’s trade mission to India aimed at strengthening economic ties. Prime Minister Mark Carney is also set to visit India later this year.
However, organizations representing Canadian Sikhs are voicing strong opposition to these diplomatic efforts. They argue that enhancing trade relations with India compromises Canadian safety by ignoring the government’s alleged connections to the Bishnoi gang.
Statements from Sikh Organizations
Balpreet Singh, spokesperson for the World Sikh Organization of Canada, stated, “The RCMP and the government of Canada are aware that the Bishnoi gang operates in coordination with the Indian government to target individuals in Canada.” He criticized the political motivations behind minimizing the gang’s activities.
Recent Violent Incidents
The issue of violence attributed to the Bishnoi gang has gained attention, especially following the murder of Hardeep Singh Nijjar, a prominent Sikh leader, on June 18, 2023. Nijjar was associated with the Khalistan movement, advocating for the independence of Punjab. The Indian government labeled him a “terrorist” and sought his arrest.
Previous Prime Minister Justin Trudeau confirmed that Canadian authorities were investigating potential involvement from Indian agents in Nijjar’s murder. Following this, there was a notable rise in violence, including the killing of Sukhdool Singh in Manitoba in September 2023, who was also categorized as a terrorist by India.
International Implications and Government Response
The ongoing situation has prompted questions about Canada’s commitment to justice and safety for its citizens, amid police investigations linking the Bishnoi gang to the Indian government. In response to growing tensions, Canada expelled six Indian diplomats to protest these alleged actions.
The federal government designated the Bishnoi gang as a terrorist group in September, although the listing did not explicitly mention the alleged ties to India. The report emphasizes the need for vigilant monitoring and urgent action to address the potential threats posed by such organizations.
Conclusion
As the narrative unfolds, the complex relationship between Canada and India, alongside the troubling activities of the Bishnoi gang, continues to capture national attention. Moving forward, the Canadian government faces significant challenges in balancing diplomatic relations while ensuring the safety of its people.
