Babbar Khalsa International Terrorist Extradited to India from UAE
In a major counter-terrorism success, Parminder Singh 'Pindi', a terrorist associated with Babbar Khalsa International (BKI), has been extradited from the UAE to India. Pindi, a close aide of foreign-based terrorists Harwinder Singh Rinda and Happy Passia, was wanted for multiple crimes in Punjab, including petrol bomb attacks and extortion. The extradition was the result of a coordinated operation between Punjab Police, central agencies, and UAE authorities, acting on a Red Corner Notice issued at India's request.
Unpacked:
Babbar Khalsa International (BKI) is a pro-Khalistan militant organization aiming to create an independent Sikh state in Punjab. It is designated a terrorist group by India, the US, UK, EU, and others, and has carried out violent attacks including the 1985 Air India bombing, making it a significant security threat.
Harwinder Singh Rinda and Happy Passia are foreign-based operatives considered key leaders within BKI. They are involved in coordinating attacks, funding, and supporting BKI’s operations from abroad, especially as the group’s leadership has moved outside India in recent years.
A Red Corner Notice is an international request issued by Interpol to locate and provisionally arrest a wanted person, pending extradition. It alerts police forces worldwide to detain the individual, helping countries like India seek extradition from foreign jurisdictions.
Recent BKI-linked activities in Punjab include petrol bomb attacks, extortion, and attempts to revive pro-Khalistan militancy. Authorities have arrested several BKI operatives and foiled plots between 2017 and 2023, reflecting an uptick in efforts to destabilize the region.