
Government Announcement
Lawrence Bishnoi gang has been officially declared a terrorist organization by Canada. The gang is linked to crimes including murder, robbery, and arms and drugs trafficking in India and abroad. Canadian Public Safety Minister Gary Anandsangari authenticated the action under the country's criminal code.
Legal Impact
The Canadian government can now:
- Freeze or seize assets, cars, and funds associated with the gang.
- Grant law enforcement agencies greater authority to investigate gang members.
- Allow immigration officials to exclude suspected members from entering Canada.
Political Context
There are growing concerns in Canada about the increasing activities of the gang. The Conservative Party recently urged the government to intervene, asking the Bishnoi gang to be labeled as a terrorist organization. In his letter, Canadian MP Frank Caputo wrote the criminal empire of the gang is expanding and linked them to kidnapping and murder cases within Canada.
Bilateral Relations
Observers are of the view that this move can strengthen India–Canada relations, which of late have seen tensions.