Canada Declares Bishnoi Gang a Terrorist Organisation, Citing Violence and Intimidation

Ottawa, Sept 2025 : The Canadian government on Monday officially designated the Bishnoi gang, led by notorious gangster Lawrence Bishnoi, as a terrorist organisation under the Criminal Code. The move comes in response to the gang’s alleged involvement in murder, shootings, arson, and spreading terror through extortion and intimidation.

“Acts of violence and terror have no place in Canada, especially those that target specific communities to create fear and insecurity,” Public Safety Minister Gary Anandasangaree said in a statement. “That is why the Government of Canada has listed the Bishnoi Gang as a terrorist entity under the Criminal Code.”

Implications of the Listing

With this designation, any property, assets, or vehicles owned by the group in Canada can be frozen or seized. The listing also provides law enforcement with expanded tools to prosecute terrorism-related offences, including financing, recruitment, and travel facilitation.

Under Canadian law, it is a criminal offence for anyone in Canada—or Canadians abroad—to knowingly deal with property owned or controlled by a terrorist group. It is also illegal to provide, directly or indirectly, any property or resources knowing they may benefit a terrorist organisation.

The Ministry of Public Safety added that the listing can also guide immigration and border officials in determining admissibility to Canada under the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act.

Transnational Reach and Community Impact

The Bishnoi Gang is described as a transnational criminal organisation with its roots in India but an active presence in Canada, particularly in areas with large diaspora populations. The gang has allegedly targeted community leaders, businesses, and cultural figures, generating fear and insecurity through violent acts and threats.

By designating the Bishnoi Gang as a terrorist entity, Canadian authorities aim to enhance cooperation between security, intelligence, and law enforcement agencies in countering its influence.

Government’s Stand on Safety

“Every person in Canada has the right to feel safe in their home and community,” Anandasangaree said. “Specific communities have been targeted for terror, violence, and intimidation by the Bishnoi Gang. Listing this group gives us more powerful and effective tools to stop their crimes and protect Canadians.”

The decision underscores Ottawa’s broader commitment to curbing transnational criminal networks and safeguarding multicultural communities across the country.