Canadian Shooting Sparks Speculation Over Khalistan Terrorist Arsh Dalla’s Detention
NEW DELHI: A recent shooting incident in Ontario, Canada, followed by the detention of two individuals, has fueled speculation that one of the detained men could be Arshdeep Singh, alias Arsh Dalla, a prominent Khalistan terrorist and close associate of the late Hardeep Singh Nijjar. Despite growing reports, neither Canadian nor Indian authorities have officially confirmed Dalla’s detention. Indian intelligence agencies are actively working to verify the claims.
Arsh Dalla’s Rise to Infamy
Arsh Dalla, a key rival of gangster Lawrence Bishnoi, took charge of the Khalistan Tiger Force (KTF) after Nijjar’s assassination earlier this year. Dalla has remained on India’s most-wanted list since orchestrating the brutal murder of a Hindu businessman in Delhi in December 2022.
Dalla first entered the radar of Indian security agencies following his suspected involvement in the killings of Dera Sacha Sauda followers in 2020 and 2021. Over the years, he has been implicated in a string of violent offenses, including targeted killings, extortion rackets, and terrorism-related activities. Security officials believe Dalla has continued to operate extremist networks abroad, allegedly overseeing operations and providing financial support to his operatives in India.
The Ontario Shooting and Arrest
The shooting incident occurred between October 27 and 28 in Halton Region, Ontario. Halton Regional Police Service (HRPS) confirmed the arrest of two men on charges of “discharging a firearm with intent” after one individual sustained a gunshot wound and sought treatment at a local hospital. Unverified reports suggest that the injured individual may be Arsh Dalla, though some sources claim his injuries were minor.
While HRPS has maintained silence on the detainees’ identities, Indian authorities remain cautious. Security agencies are closely coordinating with their Canadian counterparts to ascertain whether Dalla was among those arrested.
Connection to Recent Arrests in India
The speculation surrounding Dalla’s detention comes amid significant crackdowns by Indian law enforcement. The Punjab Police recently arrested two of Dalla’s close associates from Mohali and Delhi, linking them to a high-profile murder case. Investigators have also connected Dalla’s network to another killing in Gwalior, further emphasizing his reach and influence.
Indian agencies have repeatedly flagged Dalla’s attempts to fund and direct criminal operations from Canada. Reports indicate that he has been channeling money to his associates in Punjab and other parts of India to sustain terror activities and carry out targeted killings.
Criminal Charges and Terror Designation
Arsh Dalla faces over 13 FIRs for crimes ranging from murder and extortion to orchestrating terror-related plots. In January 2023, the Indian government officially designated him as a terrorist under the Unlawful Activities Prevention Act (UAPA). This designation underscores his role in promoting Khalistani separatism, sponsoring violence, and destabilizing internal security.
India’s Ongoing Investigation
Indian intelligence agencies have confirmed that Dalla fled to Canada in July 2020, where he has been living with his wife. Since then, he has operated as a key figure within the Khalistani extremist movement, reportedly collaborating with other fugitive militants.
The Ontario shooting incident highlights the growing scrutiny of Dalla’s activities. The episode has reignited concerns over Canada’s status as a safe haven for individuals linked to extremist organizations. Indian authorities continue to monitor the situation, anticipating clarity on Dalla’s status in the coming days.
Broader Implications
The case of Arsh Dalla underscores the complex challenges faced by Indian authorities in addressing transnational terrorism. The suspected detention in Canada coincides with escalating tensions over extremist networks operating abroad, raising questions about international cooperation in tackling terror financing and separatist movements.
With investigations ongoing, authorities in both nations face pressure to address rising concerns over Khalistani networks and their potential to disrupt peace and stability. Further developments on Arsh Dalla’s reported detention are awaited as officials continue to probe the Ontario shooting incident.