India committed to combating organised crime after US indictment in Canada murder case

The U.S. recently charged Lawrence Bishnoi, an imprisoned Indian criminal gang leader, and his North American deputy with directing Nijjar's murder. Responding to questions about the U.S. indictment, Indian foreign ministry spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal stated that India and the U.S. maintain "strong and effective growing cooperation" on transnational organised crime. He emphasized India's dedication to working with partners through close law enforcement and security cooperation.

When asked about the potential extradition of Bishnoi, Jaiswal indicated that New Delhi would address any such request in accordance with "established legal obligations and judicial processes." An official from the U.S. Attorney's Office had previously confirmed they would seek Bishnoi's extradition. U.S. and Canadian officials have not repeated allegations of Indian government involvement or prior knowledge of Nijjar's assassination. Canada and India are currently working to mend their relationship, with plans to finalise a free trade agreement by the end of the year.