Will the FBI Take Lawrence Bishnoi to the US? Fugitive Punjab Police Inspector Also Under Scanner

New Delhi: America has given a big hint in the case related to the murder of Khalistan supporter Hardeep Singh Nijjar in Canada. US officials have confirmed that they will seek the extradition of gangster Lawrence Bishnoi and Gurinderjit Singh Nagra, accused in a US extortion case. Currently, Bishnoi is lodged in Gujarat's Sabarmati Central Jail, while Nagra is accused of demanding extortion of four lakh dollars from people of Indian origin living in America and being associated with an organised crime network. After this incident, old controversies related to the international gangster network and Punjab Police have once again come into discussion.

What did American officials say?

When Ciaran McEvoy, public affairs officer of the US Attorney's Office in California, was asked a question about the extradition of Bishnoi and Nagra, he gave a brief reply and said, "Yes," but declined to give further details. However, his answer is being considered an important indication in the direction of the extradition process. If the US sends a formal request, further proceedings will proceed under the provisions of the extradition treaty in force between India and the US.

What are the charges against Gurinderjit Singh Nagra?

According to the US Justice Department, Gurinderjit Singh Nagra conspired with Lawrence Bishnoi and Jaggu Bhagwanpuria gang to extort money by threatening people living in America. Investigating agencies claim that the accused tried to extort four lakh dollars and used organised crime network for this. This matter now remains a major part of the investigation by American agencies.

What actions took place in Operation Hardball?

Law enforcement agencies from the US, Canada and Europe recently conducted a joint operation, named 'Operation Hardball'. 24 people were arrested during this operation, with 11 arrests occurring in California alone. The US Justice Department has filed chargesheet against a total of 37 people. Investigative agencies say that this action is part of a strategy to weaken the internationally active organised crime network.

Why are Goldie Brar and Punjab Police in the news again?

In the Nijjar murder case, Goldie Brar, considered close to Lawrence Bishnoi, has been accused of conspiring to murder. The FBI has also announced a reward of $50,000 for information leading to his arrest. Meanwhile, cases related to some officers of Punjab Police have also made headlines. Recently, an inspector was suspended, while another Gallantry Award-winning officer is said to be on the radar of investigating agencies.

Why did the debate start again regarding gallantry medals?

Amidst this entire incident, the issue of Punjab's famous Jaswant Singh Khalda murder case has also come to the fore again. The gallantry medals of some former police officers convicted in this case have not been withdrawn yet. Whereas the Union Home Ministry had years ago directed the states to initiate the process of withdrawing gallantry awards of police officers found guilty in serious criminal cases. Now, between America's action and the international investigation, the question is again being raised that when will the process of fixing accountability in the pending cases be completed.