'Creates climate of fear': Canada designates Lawrence Bishnoi's gang as terrorist entity

The listing on Sunday, September 29, comes after reports over several months that the Bishnoi gang targeted pro-Khalistan elements, including Sikh Canadian citizens, inside Canada over the past few years. The Indian government has denied reports that it indirectly used this gang to target anti-India Sikh extremists. Delhi has, in fact, urged Ottawa to act against terror elements, including their financiers, based in Canada.

“The Bishnoi Gang is a transnational criminal organization operating primarily out of India. They have a presence in Canada and are active in areas with significant diaspora communities,” the Canadian government's press release on the listing read.

Gary Anandasangaree, Canada's minister of public safety, said, "Every person in Canada has the right to feel safe in their home and community and as a government it is our fundamental responsibility to protect them. Specific communities have been targeted for terror, violence and intimidation by the Bishnoi Gang. Listing this group of criminal terrorists gives us more powerful and effective tools to confront and put a stop to their crimes.”