Canadian Police Accuse Indian Govt Of Aiding Lawrence Bishnoi Gang's Activities In Canada

Ontario: The Lawrence Bishnoi gang is once again in the spotlight in Canada. A secret report by the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) claims that the gang is working on behalf of the Indian government. 

What has the RCMP said about Lawrence Bishnoi?

The RCMP report mentions the Bishnoi gang's ties to the Indian government at least six times. The report explicitly states that the Bishnoi crime group uses violence to further its criminal enterprise while acting on behalf of the Indian government. The report describes the Bishnoi gang as a violent criminal organization with an active and growing presence in several countries, including Canada. According to the report, the gang is involved in activities such as extortion, drug trafficking, money laundering, and contract killings.

Why is the timing of the RCMP report significant?

These reports come at a time when relations between India and Canada are improving. After more than 10 months of strained relations, both countries appointed ambassadors to each other in August 2025. Relations had soured after Canadian security officials accused India of involvement in espionage and acts of violence without providing evidence. India has repeatedly denied these allegations. On the other hand, the report claims that the Lawrence Bishnoi gang is expanding its influence in Canada.

What are the RCMP charges against Lawrence Bishnoi?

The RCMP report states that the awrence Bishnoi gang is a violent criminal organization with an active and expanding presence in several countries, including Canada. The report further states that the group is known for using violence to further its criminal enterprise while acting on behalf of the Indian government. According to the RCMP, the Bishnoi gang is involved in a range of serious criminal activities, including extortion, drug trafficking, financial manipulation, and targeted killings. Police stated that the gang's primary motivation is 'greed,' not political or religious reasons. 

According to Global News, the report was released by the RCMP on the same day that British Columbia Premier David Eby embarked on a trade mission to India from January 12 to 17.  The report states that the Lawrence Bishnoi gang has intensified its violent activities in Canada over the past year, and despite being designated a terrorist organization by Ottawa, its activities are spreading in Canada.

How are bilateral ties between India and Canada?

It is worth noting that a diplomatic standoff arose between India and Canada when Justin Trudeau was Prime Minister. Trudeau alleged the Indian government's involvement in the killing of Khalistani terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar on Canadian soil. New Delhi denied any involvement and demanded evidence, which was never provided. Last October, India's Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said that the two countries had agreed to enhance intelligence sharing and take joint measures to combat organized crime.