Ottawa: Lawrence Bishnoi, a notorious Indian gangster, has recently made international headlines after being designated as a terrorist entity by the Canadian government. Known for allegedly commanding a sprawling criminal network of over 700 members from inside a high-security prison in Gujarat, Bishnoi’s influence reportedly extends far beyond India’s borders.

At just 32 years old, Bishnoi is accused of masterminding an array of heinous crimes, including threatening Bollywood celebrities, orchestrating the murder of a pop icon, and even plotting political assassinations overseas. Despite being confined in a concrete cell, Bishnoi allegedly continues to run his empire through a smuggled smartphone, maintaining his grip on one of India’s most feared criminal organizations.

The National Investigation Agency (NIA), India’s premier investigative body, has long pursued Bishnoi, charging him with criminal conspiracy, extortion, murder, and terrorism-related activities. His rise to international notoriety was cemented last month when Canada formally listed his gang as a terrorist group, citing their involvement in violent crimes against Sikh dissidents on Canadian soil.

“Specific communities have been targeted for terror, violence and intimidation by the Bishnoi Gang,” said Canada’s Minister of Public Safety, Gary Anandasangaree. “Listing this group of criminal terrorists gives us more powerful and effective tools to confront and put a stop to their crimes.”

While Bishnoi denies many allegations, his legal team has questioned the validity of Canada’s designation, vowing to investigate the claims thoroughly.

Attempts by international media to contact the Sabarmati jail authorities, where Bishnoi is held, went unanswered. Meanwhile, the Indian government has remained silent on Canada’s move, even as New Delhi and Ottawa seek to mend diplomatic ties strained by years of discord.