Pro-Khalistani Group: Babbar Khalsa International (BKI) is back in the news, as India's National Investigation Agency (NIA) offers a Rs.10 lakh reward for information on key operatives.
Origins & Leadership: Formed post-1978 Amritsar clashes, it is based in Lahore, Pakistan, under the alleged patronage of Pakistan's Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI). Wadhawa Singh currently heads the BKI.
Global Reach: BKI has expanded its operations beyond India and Pakistan to Canada, the U.S., and Europe, often collaborating with other banned groups like the International Sikh Youth Federation.
High-Profile Attacks: Responsible for the 1985 mid-air bombing of Air India 182, killing 329 people. Also, involved in the assassination of Punjab Chief Minister Beant Singh in 1995.
Legal Status: Proscribed in multiple countries including India, Canada, the U.K., and the U.S. The organization is under various investigations.
ISI's Support: Despite internal divisions and leadership changes, the group is believed to continue enjoying ISI's support.
Recent Developments: NIA investigations focus on BKI members involved in arms and explosives smuggling. Wadhawa Singh's family members are reportedly operating from Germany.
Challenges: The resurgence and changing dynamics of the group pose a critical challenge to international security agencies.
The complexities of the BKI network, its history of violent attacks, and its international reach underline the urgency for multi-national cooperation to curb its activities.
