In a significant move, Canada has officially classified India’s Bishnoi gang as a terrorist organization, granting the federal government authority to confiscate the group’s assets and freeze its financial holdings within the country. The announcement was made by Public Safety Minister Gary Anandasangaree on Monday, who emphasized that the gang has fostered an environment of fear and intimidation within Canadian diaspora communities. The decision follows allegations by Canadian police last year that members of the Bishnoi gang, allegedly linked to the Indian government, were involved in homicides, extortion, and violent acts targeting supporters of the pro-Khalistan movement. India has consistently denied these claims, citing a lack of evidence provided by Canada. The new designation empowers Canadian law enforcement to prosecute terrorist activities such as financing, recruitment, and travel. Minister Anandasangaree stated, ‘Specific communities have been subjected to terror, violence, and intimidation by the Bishnoi gang. This listing equips us with stronger tools to combat and halt their criminal operations.’ The Bishnoi gang, led by Lawrence Bishnoi, a 32-year-old incarcerated Indian gangster, is described as a transnational criminal organization primarily based in India but with significant operations in Canada, particularly in areas with large diaspora populations. In India, Bishnoi is accused of controlling a 700-member gang involved in extortion, drug and weapon smuggling, and targeted assassinations. The designation follows pressure from opposition parties and provincial leaders in Alberta and British Columbia, who argued that such a move would enable the government to impose sanctions and counter the gang’s activities more effectively.