The Government of Canada has officially listed the Bishnoi Gang as a terrorist entity under the Criminal Code, citing its "violent operations" across the country.
Announcing the decision, Public Safety Minister Gary Anandasangaree said acts of terror and intimidation have no place in Canada. “Groups that use fear, violence, and extortion to target communities must be held accountable,” he said. "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 Bishnoi Gang engages in murder, shootings and arson, and generates terror through extortion and intimidation. They create a climate of insecurity in these communities by targeting them, their prominent community members, businesses, and cultural figures. Listing the Bishnoi Gang will help Canadian security, intelligence, and law enforcement agencies in combatting their crimes and making communities safer," the government said in its release. With the listing, the Bishnoi Gang is now legally defined as a “terrorist group.” This allows Canadian authorities to freeze or seize its assets, prosecute members and supporters for terrorism-related offences, and crack down on activities such as financing, recruitment, and travel. It also makes it a criminal offence for anyone in Canada, or Canadians abroad, to provide property or resources to the gang. Immigration and border officials can also use the designation to determine admissibility to Canada under the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act.
