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The MEA emphasized that India remains committed to ensuring justice and curbing transnational terrorism
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As the Ontario Court begins hearings on Dalla’s case, Indian authorities are optimistic about his extradition
India has initiated efforts to extradite Arsh Dalla, a designated terrorist and alleged leader of the Khalistan Tiger Force (KTF), following his arrest in Canada on November 10, 2024, reported indianexpress.com.
The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) announced this on November 14, expressing confidence that Dalla will be extradited or deported to face justice in India.
Arsh Dalla, 27, is a proclaimed offender in over 50 criminal cases, including murder, attempted murder, extortion, and terror-related activities such as financing. The National Investigation Agency (NIA) designated him as an individual terrorist in 2023, and a Red Corner Notice was issued against him in May 2022. Despite India’s earlier request in July 2023 for Dalla’s provisional arrest under the Mutual Legal Assistance Treaty (MLAT), Canadian authorities initially declined the appeal.
India’s Case Against Dalla
MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal confirmed that India had submitted extensive evidence to Canada, including details about Dalla’s suspected address, financial transactions, and mobile connections. The Department of Justice in Canada sought additional information in December 2023, to which India responded in March 2024.
Dalla’s criminal activities in Canada have been well-documented, with Canadian media outlets reporting his involvement in a recent shooting in Milton, Ontario. His history of violence reportedly extends to extortion threats targeting Indian-origin business owners in Canada, further exacerbating tensions within the Indian diaspora.
Gangster-Turned-Terrorist
Born in Dala village, Punjab, Dalla started as a small-time gangster before fleeing to Canada in 2018. There, he associated with Hardeep Singh Nijjar, the former KTF chief. According to an NIA chargesheet, Dalla and Nijjar raised funds for KTF through extortion and targeted killings in Punjab. Wire-transfer records reveal Dalla and his wife channeled significant funds to individuals linked with weapons smuggling and extortion networks.
Dalla’s activities have also fueled gang rivalries, particularly with the Lawrence Bishnoi gang. This conflict reportedly intensified in December 2023, with Indian-origin entrepreneurs in Canada frequently reporting threats and extortion calls.
Next Steps
Dalla’s arrest marks a pivotal moment in India’s efforts to address cross-border terrorism. Indian agencies are now intensifying their follow-ups on the extradition request, underlining Dalla’s extensive criminal record and his illegal operations in both India and Canada.
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