The Canadian government has formally designated the Lawrence Bishnoi gang as a terrorist entity under the country’s Criminal Code, a move that grants authorities sweeping powers to curb its operations and connections.
Government’s announcement
Public Safety Minister Gary Anandasangaree announced the decision on Monday, stating that the designation equips Canadian law enforcement with “enhanced powers to combat a group that has instilled fear through violence and intimidation.”
The measure effectively criminalises any support for the gang within Canada. Citizens and residents are now prohibited from providing financial assistance, material support, or services to the organisation. The law also authorises freezing of assets, seizure of property, and the prosecution of individuals or groups with links to the gang.
About the gang
The Lawrence Bishnoi gang, which originated in Rajasthan, India, has grown into a transnational syndicate with operations reportedly stretching across India, Canada, and other countries. Its leader, Lawrence Bishnoi, is currently lodged in an Indian prison but continues to exert influence through associates.
The group has been linked to contract killings, extortion rackets, and cross-border organised crime. Intelligence agencies in both India and Canada have previously raised concerns about its international footprint, including suspected involvement in targeted attacks against public figures.
Concerns in Canada
Canadian authorities say the gang’s presence has contributed to rising fears in sections of the Indian diaspora. Some affiliates have been accused of using Canada as a base for financial operations, recruitment, and coordination with counterparts overseas.
Officials added that the terror listing will help dismantle such networks by cutting off access to funds and legal loopholes. “By designating this entity, we are making it clear that Canada will not serve as a safe haven for violent criminal organisations,” Anandasangaree said.
India-Canada security cooperation
The decision is expected to draw attention in New Delhi, where Indian security agencies have long pushed for international action against criminal syndicates with overseas operations.
While diplomatic ties between India and Canada have faced strain in recent years, security and law enforcement agencies are understood to maintain communication on cross-border organised crime. The designation of the Bishnoi gang is likely to be seen in India as a step towards greater cooperation on tackling transnational crime.
A growing pattern
This move also reflects Canada’s broader efforts to use its anti-terrorism framework against criminal outfits with international reach. By bringing the Bishnoi gang under the same legal framework as terrorist organisations, Canada signals that it considers violent organised crime a threat to both domestic and international security.
Conclusion
With this designation, Canadian authorities now have wider legal grounds to pursue individuals and entities connected to the Bishnoi syndicate. Whether the measure will significantly curb the gang’s global influence remains to be seen, but the step marks a rare convergence between criminal law enforcement and counter-terrorism policy.