India Pushes for Dallas-Based Khalistan Terrorist’s Extradition

New Delhi:  The Indian government confirmed that it will seek the extradition of Arsh Singh Gill, alias Arsh Dalla, the de facto leader of the Khalistan Tiger Force (KTF), after reports surfaced that he had been arrested in Canada. The Indian authorities expressed hope that the Canadian government would facilitate his deportation to India, where he faces multiple charges related to terrorism and violent activities linked to the Khalistan movement.

Arsh Dalla, 38, who has been on India's most-wanted list for several years, is accused of orchestrating several terrorist attacks and supporting organized crime syndicates with the goal of reviving the separatist Khalistan movement in Punjab. The KTF, under his leadership, has been linked to attacks on security forces, bombings, and extortion activities aimed at creating fear and instability in India.

According to Indian officials, Dalla has been operating from abroad for years, using his position to fund and coordinate operations for the KTF. His arrest in Canada marks a significant development in the ongoing efforts to bring Khalistani extremists to justice. India’s Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) issued a statement urging Canadian authorities to expedite the legal process and cooperate with India’s request for extradition. “We are closely monitoring the situation, and we hope the Canadian authorities will act swiftly in extraditing him to India so that he can face trial for his crimes,” an MEA spokesperson said.

The arrest of Arsh Dalla is viewed as a crucial step in dismantling the global network of Khalistani operatives, many of whom are believed to be living in countries with large Sikh populations. It remains to be seen whether the Canadian authorities will prioritize their legal obligations under international extradition treaties or bow to the broader political pressure surrounding the issue.