OTTAWA– The Canadian government has officially designated the Bishnoi gang, led by notorious Indian gangster Lawrence Bishnoi, as a terrorist organization, citing its involvement in murder, shootings, arson, and widespread extortion that has fueled fear in diaspora communities.
Public Safety Minister Gary Anandasangaree announced the move on Monday, saying the group has been added to Canada’s list of terrorist entities under the Criminal Code. “Acts of violence and terror have no place in Canada, especially those that target specific communities to create a climate of fear and intimidation,” Anandasangaree said in a statement.
The listing empowers Canadian law enforcement to freeze or seize the gang’s property and assets, including money and vehicles. It also broadens the tools available to prosecute terrorism-related crimes, from financing to recruitment. For Canadians, it is now a criminal offense to knowingly conduct business with or provide resources to the group, whether at home or abroad.
Officials said the Bishnoi gang is a transnational criminal network that originated in India but has developed a presence in Canada, particularly in areas with significant South Asian populations. The group is accused of targeting prominent community members, businesses, and cultural figures with violence and intimidation.
“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,” Anandasangaree added. “Listing this group of criminal terrorists gives us more powerful and effective tools to confront and put a stop to their crimes.”
The Public Safety Ministry emphasized that the designation will also guide immigration and border officials in assessing the admissibility of individuals associated with the gang under the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act.
By formally labeling the Bishnoi gang a terrorist organization, Ottawa hopes to strengthen the ability of Canadian security, intelligence, and law enforcement agencies to counter its activities and safeguard communities across the country.
