Bishnoi Gang’s Deadly Independence Day Plot Crushed by Rajasthan Police
Image via BBC News
Jaipur, August 16, 2025 – In a major security breakthrough ahead of India’s 79th Independence Day, Rajasthan Police arrested several members of the notorious Lawrence Bishnoi gang. Officials revealed that the suspects were planning to carry out terror attacks in Delhi and Gwalior during the August 15 celebrations. The arrests, made in Jaipur and Tonk districts, have prevented what could have been a deadly tragedy on one of the nation’s most important days.
The Arrests and Suspects
Police said the suspects were directly linked to the Lawrence Bishnoi gang, a powerful criminal syndicate known for its involvement in extortion, contract killings, and smuggling. Among those arrested were Jitendra Chaudhary of Tonk, Sanjay from Hanumangarh, and Sonu alias Kali from Kapurthala in Punjab. Along with these men, three minors were also detained, pointing to the disturbing trend of criminal gangs recruiting teenagers into violent plots.
The police operation was led by Additional Director General (ADG) Crime Dinesh M.N., supported by ASP Siddhant Sharma and the Anti-Gangster Task Force (AGTF). Acting on intelligence inputs, undercover officers tracked the movements of the suspects and successfully apprehended them on August 10, 2025.
The Nawanshahr Connection
Investigations revealed that the accused were involved in a grenade attack in Nawanshahr, Punjab, on July 7, 2025. In that incident, a grenade was hurled outside a liquor shop, sending shockwaves across the region. The attack was not random—it was allegedly meant to create fear and force local businessmen to pay extortion money to the Bishnoi gang.
After the blast, the suspects fled to Rajasthan, where they regrouped and began planning larger attacks in Delhi and Gwalior, timed to coincide with Independence Day celebrations.
The Plot and International Links
According to police, the arrested men were acting under the direction of Zeeshan Akhtar, a Canada-based handler suspected of having direct ties to the Bishnoi gang’s international wing. Zeeshan is accused of supplying grenades and explosives to the gang members while using social media platforms like Instagram to coordinate their moves.
Officials said the group was tasked with planting grenades in crowded public areas during Independence Day celebrations. The intention was to cause panic, disrupt national security, and demonstrate the gang’s influence.
The revelation of foreign handlers highlights the global reach of India’s criminal syndicates. Investigators are now working with central agencies to track the flow of arms and money, as well as to identify other foreign operatives working with the Bishnoi gang.
Timeline of the Operation
- July 7, 2025 – Grenade blast outside a liquor shop in Nawanshahr, Punjab.
- Mid-July – Suspects escape Punjab and regroup in Jaipur and Tonk.
- Late July – Intelligence agencies alert Rajasthan Police about possible terror plots in Delhi and Gwalior.
- August 10, 2025 – Police conduct raids and arrest suspects in Rajasthan.
- August 16, 2025 – Police publicly announce details of the terror plot and arrests.
Larger Implications
1. Terror Prevented
The arrests came just days before Independence Day, when the nation was preparing for flag hoisting ceremonies and public gatherings. A successful attack could have caused mass casualties and widespread panic.
2. Youth Recruitment
The fact that three minors were involved has shocked authorities. This points to a dangerous trend of gangs exploiting teenagers, luring them with money, fear, and the promise of power. Experts warn that unless addressed quickly, such recruitment can worsen the law-and-order situation in India.
3. Cross-Border Links
The involvement of a handler in Canada once again underlines the international reach of Indian gangs. The Bishnoi gang and others like it are increasingly using foreign soil to coordinate attacks and smuggle weapons, making law enforcement’s task more complex.
4. Role of Social Media
Instagram, WhatsApp, and other platforms were reportedly used to send instructions and share updates. This raises alarms about the digital strategies of gangs and terrorists, forcing Indian agencies to strengthen online surveillance.
5. Boost for Security Forces
The successful arrests have showcased the effectiveness of joint police and intelligence operations. The Anti-Gangster Task Force and Rajasthan Police have been praised for acting swiftly and decisively.
Statements from Officials
ADG Crime Dinesh M.N. said in a press briefing:
“The arrested individuals were planning to disrupt Independence Day celebrations in Delhi and Gwalior using grenades. Their timely arrest has prevented a major terror incident. Investigations are ongoing, and we are working closely with Punjab Police and central agencies.”
Police further revealed that the suspects have been handed over to the Special Operation Cell of Punjab Police in Amritsar for detailed interrogation and legal proceedings.
Why This Case Matters for India
This case is more than just a gang crime; it is a reminder of the growing overlap between organized crime and terrorism in India. The Bishnoi gang, which has already gained notoriety due to high-profile extortion cases and celebrity threats, is now under the spotlight for direct involvement in terror-related plots.
For common citizens, the arrests highlight both the ongoing threats to public safety and the commitment of Indian security forces to protect them.