Delhi High Court Puts on Hold CBI's Adverse Remarks in Liquor Policy Case
In a recent ruling, the Delhi High Court has temporarily stayed the adverse remarks made by the Rouse Avenue Court against the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), which had earlier cleared Arvind Kejriwal and Manish Sisodia of all charges in the controversial liquor policy case. The local court had harshly criticized the CBI, describing its investigation as “demonstrably erroneous, economically illiterate, and legally unsustainable,” claiming that the prosecution failed to provide suff
Delhi High Court Puts on Hold CBI's Adverse Remarks in Liquor Policy Case
In a recent ruling, the Delhi High Court has temporarily stayed the adverse remarks made by the Rouse Avenue Court against the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), which had earlier cleared Arvind Kejriwal and Manish Sisodia of all charges in the controversial liquor policy case. The local court had harshly criticized the CBI, describing its investigation as “demonstrably erroneous, economically illiterate, and legally unsustainable,” claiming that the prosecution failed to provide suff
Shakira’s Mumbai Concert Tickets Go Up to Rs 32,000: Exclusive Access and Philanthropic Mission
Shakira, the Latina pop sensation, is making her highly anticipated return to India after 19 long years, with concerts in Mumbai and Delhi scheduled for April 2026. The excitement surrounding her shows is palpable, and the ticket prices are reflecting this buzz, with prices soaring as high as Rs 32,000 for exclusive access. The last time Shakira performed in India was back in 2007 during her Oral Fixation tour, and her return is generating much excitement. On March 1, 2026,
Shakira’s Mumbai Concert Tickets Go Up to Rs 32,000: Exclusive Access and Philanthropic Mission
Shakira, the Latina pop sensation, is making her highly anticipated return to India after 19 long years, with concerts in Mumbai and Delhi scheduled for April 2026. The excitement surrounding her shows is palpable, and the ticket prices are reflecting this buzz, with prices soaring as high as Rs 32,000 for exclusive access. The last time Shakira performed in India was back in 2007 during her Oral Fixation tour, and her return is generating much excitement. On March 1, 2026,
Kavitha Cleared in Delhi Liquor Scam Case, Receives Clean Chit from CBI Court
Kalvakuntla Kavitha, once infamously known as the Lady in Liquor Scam, has been officially acquitted by the CBI court in Delhi, clearing her of all charges related to the Delhi liquor scam case. This major legal victory for Kavitha comes after a series of intense political attacks and prolonged legal proceedings. Despite being accused and publicly scrutinized, the court determined there was a lack of criminal evidence to substantiate the allegations against her. The accusations
Kavitha Cleared in Delhi Liquor Scam Case, Receives Clean Chit from CBI Court
Kalvakuntla Kavitha, once infamously known as the Lady in Liquor Scam, has been officially acquitted by the CBI court in Delhi, clearing her of all charges related to the Delhi liquor scam case. This major legal victory for Kavitha comes after a series of intense political attacks and prolonged legal proceedings. Despite being accused and publicly scrutinized, the court determined there was a lack of criminal evidence to substantiate the allegations against her. The accusations
Arvind Kejriwal, Manish Sisodia Discharged in Delhi Excise Policy Case
In a significant legal development, Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal and former Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia have been discharged from the Delhi excise policy case. A Delhi court ruled that the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) failed to provide substantial evidence to support the serious charges against the two leaders. The court highlighted the lack of material evidence to substantiate the allegations against Kejriwal. It emphasized that serious charges, such as th
Arvind Kejriwal, Manish Sisodia Discharged in Delhi Excise Policy Case
In a significant legal development, Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal and former Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia have been discharged from the Delhi excise policy case. A Delhi court ruled that the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) failed to provide substantial evidence to support the serious charges against the two leaders. The court highlighted the lack of material evidence to substantiate the allegations against Kejriwal. It emphasized that serious charges, such as th
Delhi To Host First International Film Festival 2026 With 125+ Global Films
Delhi is set to make a significant mark on the global cinema map as it prepares to host its first-ever International Film Festival Delhi (IFFD) from March 25 to March 31, 2026. Announced by Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta, the festival will showcase more than 125 Indian and international films across multiple prestigious venues in the capital. This landmark event reflects Delhi’s growing ambition to become a major hub for cinema, culture, and creative collaboration. The curtain raiser for
Delhi To Host First International Film Festival 2026 With 125+ Global Films
Delhi is set to make a significant mark on the global cinema map as it prepares to host its first-ever International Film Festival Delhi (IFFD) from March 25 to March 31, 2026. Announced by Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta, the festival will showcase more than 125 Indian and international films across multiple prestigious venues in the capital. This landmark event reflects Delhi’s growing ambition to become a major hub for cinema, culture, and creative collaboration. The curtain raiser for
Heritage Foods Files Rs 100 Crore Defamation Case Against Sakshi Media
Heritage Foods has filed a major defamation lawsuit worth Rs 100 crore against Sakshi Media, escalating tensions between the media organization and the business group. The case was filed in the Delhi High Court after Heritage Foods alleged that Sakshi Media published false and defamatory reports linking the company to another dairy entity without sufficient evidence. The company stated that these reports damaged its reputation and credibility, prompting legal action to protect its brand image
Heritage Foods Files Rs 100 Crore Defamation Case Against Sakshi Media
Heritage Foods has filed a major defamation lawsuit worth Rs 100 crore against Sakshi Media, escalating tensions between the media organization and the business group. The case was filed in the Delhi High Court after Heritage Foods alleged that Sakshi Media published false and defamatory reports linking the company to another dairy entity without sufficient evidence. The company stated that these reports damaged its reputation and credibility, prompting legal action to protect its brand image
Delhi Woman Killed as Son Accidentally Shoots Her with Illegal Pistol, Investigation Underway
A tragic incident occurred in Delhi’s Jungpura area on Monday night when a 37-year-old woman, Sumati, was accidentally shot and killed by her son, Tarun, who was allegedly handling an illegal firearm at their home. The victim, a domestic help who supported her family, was struck in the face by a bullet from a country-made pistol while her son was reportedly showing it to her. The fatal shot led to her death on the spot. The incident was discovered after a PCR call was received fro
Delhi Woman Killed as Son Accidentally Shoots Her with Illegal Pistol, Investigation Underway
A tragic incident occurred in Delhi’s Jungpura area on Monday night when a 37-year-old woman, Sumati, was accidentally shot and killed by her son, Tarun, who was allegedly handling an illegal firearm at their home. The victim, a domestic help who supported her family, was struck in the face by a bullet from a country-made pistol while her son was reportedly showing it to her. The fatal shot led to her death on the spot. The incident was discovered after a PCR call was received fro
Security Alert in Delhi After Bomb Threat Mails Sent to Schools
Several schools in the national capital were placed on high alert on Monday after bomb threat emails were sent to their official email IDs, triggering swift action from security agencies. According to officials, at least ten schools across different parts of Delhi received the threatening emails within a short time window, prompting immediate deployment of police teams, fire services, and bomb disposal squads to conduct thorough security checks on school premises. As per the informa
Security Alert in Delhi After Bomb Threat Mails Sent to Schools
Several schools in the national capital were placed on high alert on Monday after bomb threat emails were sent to their official email IDs, triggering swift action from security agencies. According to officials, at least ten schools across different parts of Delhi received the threatening emails within a short time window, prompting immediate deployment of police teams, fire services, and bomb disposal squads to conduct thorough security checks on school premises. As per the informa
RCB Clinches Historic 2nd WPL Title with Record Chase, Beats Delhi by 6 Wickets
In a breathtaking T20 World Premier League 2026 final, Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) scripted history by chasing down the highest total ever recorded in a WPL final, clinching their second title in dramatic fashion. Despite Delhi Capitals (DC) posting an imposing total of 203/4, it was RCB’s chase, led by Smriti Mandhana (87 off 41) and Georgia Voll (79 off 54), that stole the show. RCB’s run chase set the record books ablaze with the highest successful chase in WPL history.
RCB Clinches Historic 2nd WPL Title with Record Chase, Beats Delhi by 6 Wickets
In a breathtaking T20 World Premier League 2026 final, Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) scripted history by chasing down the highest total ever recorded in a WPL final, clinching their second title in dramatic fashion. Despite Delhi Capitals (DC) posting an imposing total of 203/4, it was RCB’s chase, led by Smriti Mandhana (87 off 41) and Georgia Voll (79 off 54), that stole the show. RCB’s run chase set the record books ablaze with the highest successful chase in WPL history.
India rebukes New York mayor’s note to Umar Khalid, stresses judicial independence
India on Friday issued a firm response to a message written by Zohran Mamdani, stating that elected representatives in democracies should respect the independence of judicial institutions in other countries and refrain from commenting on ongoing legal matters. The reaction followed the circulation of a handwritten note addressed to jailed activist Umar Khalid, who is accused in connection with the 2020 Delhi riots case. At a regular press briefing, the Ministry of External Affairs underscored that public office carries responsibilities that require restraint, particularly on sensitive judicial issues. Responding to questions on the matter, Randhir Jaiswal, spokesperson for the Ministry of External Affairs, said India expects public representatives to be respectful of the independence of the judiciary in other democracies. He added that expressing personal views or prejudices on such matters does not befit those holding public office and that attention should instead remain on the duties entrusted to them by their constituents. The remarks came after a photograph of the note written by Mamdani was shared publicly by a close associate of Khalid. The message, written on the day Mamdani was ceremonially sworn in as mayor of New York City, conveyed personal sentiments and support for Khalid. According to those familiar with the interaction, the note was handed to Khalid’s parents during their visit to the United States in December 2025. The development has drawn attention in India amid ongoing legal proceedings related to the violence that erupted in parts of the national capital in February 2020. Earlier this month, the Supreme Court of India declined to grant bail to Umar Khalid and Sharjeel Imam, observing that the two stood on a qualitatively different footing compared with other accused, given the nature of the allegations and the evidence cited by the prosecution. In the same order, the apex court granted bail to several other accused, including Gulfisha Fatima, Meeran Haider, Shifa Ur Rehman, Mohd Saleem Khan and Shadab Ahmad, noting that their alleged roles appeared limited in scope. The court, however, made it clear that similar relief could not be extended to Khalid and Imam at this stage. Officials indicated that India’s response was rooted in principle rather than politics, emphasizing the need for mutual respect among democratic institutions across borders. The government maintained that judicial processes in India are governed by law and evidence, and external commentary by foreign public figures on active cases is neither appropriate nor constructive. The episode has also highlighted the sensitivities surrounding international commentary on domestic legal matters, particularly in high-profile cases. Indian officials reiterated that while democratic societies value free expression, elected representatives are expected to exercise caution and uphold the norms of diplomatic and institutional respect when addressing issues beyond their jurisdiction.
India rebukes New York mayor’s note to Umar Khalid, stresses judicial independence
India on Friday issued a firm response to a message written by Zohran Mamdani, stating that elected representatives in democracies should respect the independence of judicial institutions in other countries and refrain from commenting on ongoing legal matters. The reaction followed the circulation of a handwritten note addressed to jailed activist Umar Khalid, who is accused in connection with the 2020 Delhi riots case. At a regular press briefing, the Ministry of External Affairs underscored that public office carries responsibilities that require restraint, particularly on sensitive judicial issues. Responding to questions on the matter, Randhir Jaiswal, spokesperson for the Ministry of External Affairs, said India expects public representatives to be respectful of the independence of the judiciary in other democracies. He added that expressing personal views or prejudices on such matters does not befit those holding public office and that attention should instead remain on the duties entrusted to them by their constituents. The remarks came after a photograph of the note written by Mamdani was shared publicly by a close associate of Khalid. The message, written on the day Mamdani was ceremonially sworn in as mayor of New York City, conveyed personal sentiments and support for Khalid. According to those familiar with the interaction, the note was handed to Khalid’s parents during their visit to the United States in December 2025. The development has drawn attention in India amid ongoing legal proceedings related to the violence that erupted in parts of the national capital in February 2020. Earlier this month, the Supreme Court of India declined to grant bail to Umar Khalid and Sharjeel Imam, observing that the two stood on a qualitatively different footing compared with other accused, given the nature of the allegations and the evidence cited by the prosecution. In the same order, the apex court granted bail to several other accused, including Gulfisha Fatima, Meeran Haider, Shifa Ur Rehman, Mohd Saleem Khan and Shadab Ahmad, noting that their alleged roles appeared limited in scope. The court, however, made it clear that similar relief could not be extended to Khalid and Imam at this stage. Officials indicated that India’s response was rooted in principle rather than politics, emphasizing the need for mutual respect among democratic institutions across borders. The government maintained that judicial processes in India are governed by law and evidence, and external commentary by foreign public figures on active cases is neither appropriate nor constructive. The episode has also highlighted the sensitivities surrounding international commentary on domestic legal matters, particularly in high-profile cases. Indian officials reiterated that while democratic societies value free expression, elected representatives are expected to exercise caution and uphold the norms of diplomatic and institutional respect when addressing issues beyond their jurisdiction.
Violent Protest Outside Bangladesh Mission in Delhi Over Dipu Das Lynching
A massive protest outside the Bangladesh High Commission in New Delhi turned violent on Tuesday as members of the Vishva Hindu Parishad and other Hindu groups, including the Bajrang Dal, gathered to protest the lynching of Dipu Chandra Das in Bangladesh. Despite heavy security arrangements, demonstrators t
Violent Protest Outside Bangladesh Mission in Delhi Over Dipu Das Lynching
A massive protest outside the Bangladesh High Commission in New Delhi turned violent on Tuesday as members of the Vishva Hindu Parishad and other Hindu groups, including the Bajrang Dal, gathered to protest the lynching of Dipu Chandra Das in Bangladesh. Despite heavy security arrangements, demonstrators t
Multiple vehicles catch fire in fog-related crash on Delhi–Agra Expressway in Mathura
Several casualties are feared after a major road accident on the Delhi–Agra Expressway in Uttar Pradesh’s Mathura district during the early hours of Tuesday, December 16, following a collision triggered by dense fog. The incident occurred around 4 am when visibility on the high-speed corridor dropped sharply due to heavy fog, leading to multiple vehicles crashing into each other and catching fire. Eyewitness accounts and visuals from the scene indicate that several vehicles, inc
Multiple vehicles catch fire in fog-related crash on Delhi–Agra Expressway in Mathura
Several casualties are feared after a major road accident on the Delhi–Agra Expressway in Uttar Pradesh’s Mathura district during the early hours of Tuesday, December 16, following a collision triggered by dense fog. The incident occurred around 4 am when visibility on the high-speed corridor dropped sharply due to heavy fog, leading to multiple vehicles crashing into each other and catching fire. Eyewitness accounts and visuals from the scene indicate that several vehicles, inc
Delhi evening commute most harmful for lungs, new study reveals
A five-year pollution analysis has revealed alarming findings for Delhi residents, showing that the city’s evening commute is the most harmful time of day for lung exposure. The study reports that people traveling home from work inhale nearly 40 percent more PM2.5 particles and 23 percent higher levels of PM10 compared to morning travelers. Conducted by researchers from Netaji Subhas University of Technology and AARC Engineers and Consultants India, the data highlights how real-time polluti
Delhi evening commute most harmful for lungs, new study reveals
A five-year pollution analysis has revealed alarming findings for Delhi residents, showing that the city’s evening commute is the most harmful time of day for lung exposure. The study reports that people traveling home from work inhale nearly 40 percent more PM2.5 particles and 23 percent higher levels of PM10 compared to morning travelers. Conducted by researchers from Netaji Subhas University of Technology and AARC Engineers and Consultants India, the data highlights how real-time polluti
Taliban Hits Back At Pakistan: We Have Right To Maintain Ties With India, Says Muttaqi
Afghanistan’s acting Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi has strongly defended the Taliban government's right to maintain political and economic relations with India, pushing back against Pakistan’s criticism over Kabul-Delhi engagement. Speaking at a conference in Kabul, Muttaqi dismissed Islamabad's accusations that India supports anti-Pakistan groups, calling them inconsistent and politically motivated. He reminded that Pakistan itself maintains diplomatic presence in New Delhi with act
Taliban Hits Back At Pakistan: We Have Right To Maintain Ties With India, Says Muttaqi
Afghanistan’s acting Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi has strongly defended the Taliban government's right to maintain political and economic relations with India, pushing back against Pakistan’s criticism over Kabul-Delhi engagement. Speaking at a conference in Kabul, Muttaqi dismissed Islamabad's accusations that India supports anti-Pakistan groups, calling them inconsistent and politically motivated. He reminded that Pakistan itself maintains diplomatic presence in New Delhi with act
Putin In Delhi Today: BrahMos, S-500 Defence Talks And Big Trade Deals On The Table
Russian President Vladimir Putin lands in Delhi this evening for a crucial two-day state visit, his first trip to India since the Ukraine war and the first since 2021. The visit comes at the invitation of Prime Minister Narendra Modi as both nations celebrate 25 years of the India-Russia strategic partnership along with the 23rd bilateral summit. The leaders last met during the SCO Summit in Tianjin on September 1, and this visit is expected to see multiple agreements aimed at strengthening l
Putin In Delhi Today: BrahMos, S-500 Defence Talks And Big Trade Deals On The Table
Russian President Vladimir Putin lands in Delhi this evening for a crucial two-day state visit, his first trip to India since the Ukraine war and the first since 2021. The visit comes at the invitation of Prime Minister Narendra Modi as both nations celebrate 25 years of the India-Russia strategic partnership along with the 23rd bilateral summit. The leaders last met during the SCO Summit in Tianjin on September 1, and this visit is expected to see multiple agreements aimed at strengthening l
WPL 2026 Auction Full List Of Sold And Unsold Players With Final Prices
The WPL 2026 mega auction in New Delhi has emerged as one of the most intense and closely followed events in women’s cricket, with all five franchises rebuilding their squads from scratch. With a massive lineup of 277 players up for bidding and only 73 slots available, including 23 coveted overseas positions, the tension inside the auction hall was palpable. The event draws even more attention as many members of India’s 2025 World Cup–winning team, such as Deepti Sharma, Renuka Singh Th
WPL 2026 Auction Full List Of Sold And Unsold Players With Final Prices
The WPL 2026 mega auction in New Delhi has emerged as one of the most intense and closely followed events in women’s cricket, with all five franchises rebuilding their squads from scratch. With a massive lineup of 277 players up for bidding and only 73 slots available, including 23 coveted overseas positions, the tension inside the auction hall was palpable. The event draws even more attention as many members of India’s 2025 World Cup–winning team, such as Deepti Sharma, Renuka Singh Th
Rahul Gandhi’s Message To DK Shivakumar Adds Tension As Congress Awaits Karnataka CM Call
A fresh wave of political tension has emerged in Karnataka as Congress leaders await the high command’s final decision on a possible change of chief minister before the December 1 Parliament session. Amid growing speculation, Rahul Gandhi has finally responded to Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar after a week of continuous attempts from the Karnataka leader to speak with him. According to party sources, Rahul replied through a brief WhatsApp message saying, “Please wait, I will call you
Rahul Gandhi’s Message To DK Shivakumar Adds Tension As Congress Awaits Karnataka CM Call
A fresh wave of political tension has emerged in Karnataka as Congress leaders await the high command’s final decision on a possible change of chief minister before the December 1 Parliament session. Amid growing speculation, Rahul Gandhi has finally responded to Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar after a week of continuous attempts from the Karnataka leader to speak with him. According to party sources, Rahul replied through a brief WhatsApp message saying, “Please wait, I will call you
Netanyahu’s India Visit Delay Not Linked To Delhi Blast, Says Government Sources
Reports claiming that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu cancelled or delayed his upcoming India visit due to security concerns after the recent Delhi blast have triggered widespread discussion. However, senior government sources have now clarified that such claims are misleading and factually incorrect. The meeting between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Netanyahu, initially expected later this year, is unlikely to take place in 2025, but officials emphasize that the decision has no
Netanyahu’s India Visit Delay Not Linked To Delhi Blast, Says Government Sources
Reports claiming that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu cancelled or delayed his upcoming India visit due to security concerns after the recent Delhi blast have triggered widespread discussion. However, senior government sources have now clarified that such claims are misleading and factually incorrect. The meeting between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Netanyahu, initially expected later this year, is unlikely to take place in 2025, but officials emphasize that the decision has no
Ethiopian volcanic plume moves across Delhi-NCR; flyers warned of disruptions
A sulphur dioxide–laden ash plume originating from Ethiopia’s Hayli Gubbi volcano has drifted across parts of north India, raising concerns about potential effects on regional air quality and aviation movement. According to meteorological observers tracking the plume from the Afar Rift region, the cloud has moved over Delhi-NCR, Haryana and portions of Uttar Pradesh, carried eastward by upper-level wind patterns. While the ash concentration remains low at the surface, satellite readings i
Ethiopian volcanic plume moves across Delhi-NCR; flyers warned of disruptions
A sulphur dioxide–laden ash plume originating from Ethiopia’s Hayli Gubbi volcano has drifted across parts of north India, raising concerns about potential effects on regional air quality and aviation movement. According to meteorological observers tracking the plume from the Afar Rift region, the cloud has moved over Delhi-NCR, Haryana and portions of Uttar Pradesh, carried eastward by upper-level wind patterns. While the ash concentration remains low at the surface, satellite readings i
Anmol Bishnoi to be deported to India after US rejects asylum plea
A day after a Louisiana court rejected his application for asylum, Indian gangster Anmol Bishnoi is being deported from the United States and is expected to arrive in New Delhi around 10am on Wednesday, according to officials familiar with the matter. Bishnoi, who is wanted in multiple high-profile criminal cases across India, has been identified as the key conspirator in the killing of politician Baba Siddique in October last year. He is the younger brother of incarcerated gang leader Lawrence Bishnoi, whose syndicate has been active across several northern states. Sources stated that Anmol is being brought back to India on a chartered aircraft along with two fugitives wanted in separate Punjab-related investigations. A senior officer said that once his asylum plea was dismissed on Monday, US authorities initiated deportation procedures and notified Indian agencies of his travel schedule. The officer added that detailed coordination began immediately for securing his arrival. Indian security officials said arrangements have been made for multiple teams of Delhi Police to be deployed at the Indira Gandhi International Airport to assist central agencies. Preliminary discussions indicate that the National Investigation Agency will present Bishnoi before a court to seek custody in connection with ongoing terror and organised crime cases. Investigators are prioritising his alleged involvement in the murder of Punjabi singer Sidhu Moosewala in May 2022, the killing of Baba Siddique in 2024, and a firing incident outside the residence of actor Salman Khan. Baba Siddique’s son, Zeeshan Siddique, confirmed that he received an email from US authorities informing him that Bishnoi had been “removed” from the country. He said the communication was sent because his contact information was registered as part of the victim’s family details, and such updates were routinely provided. However, he added that he had no clarity on Bishnoi’s exact travel status or location after removal. Baba Siddique was shot dead outside his Bandra office on October 12, 2024. Following the attack, Mumbai Police arrested 26 individuals and invoked sections of the Maharashtra Control of Organised Crime Act. Anmol was listed as the mastermind in the chargesheet, and police claimed that audio clips recovered from the accused matched his voice, allegedly giving instructions for the execution of the murder plot. Indian authorities had sought Bishnoi’s extradition in January last year. In response, the US Department of State had requested additional information in March, specifically asking for detailed proof of his direct role in various crimes and supporting technical evidence. Bishnoi was arrested by US immigration officials in November 2024 for travelling with forged documents but was later released on bail after a period of detention. Investigators said Anmol fled to the United States in May 2022 using a fake passport issued under the name “Bhanu.” His cover began to unravel when US immigration authorities flagged discrepancies in reference letters submitted with his travel documents. A Red Corner Notice was issued against him in December 2022, and the NIA announced a reward of Rs 10 lakh for information leading to his capture. Officials noted that Bishnoi faces 31 criminal cases, including 22 in Rajasthan alone, and has nine pending arrest warrants. The Lawrence Bishnoi syndicate, which he is believed to have helped manage from abroad, spans Punjab, Haryana, Rajasthan and Delhi, and is suspected of carrying out extortion, targeted killings and coordinated operations using overseas handlers. With his deportation underway, agencies expect a significant breakthrough in investigations linked to the network’s recent activities.
Anmol Bishnoi to be deported to India after US rejects asylum plea
A day after a Louisiana court rejected his application for asylum, Indian gangster Anmol Bishnoi is being deported from the United States and is expected to arrive in New Delhi around 10am on Wednesday, according to officials familiar with the matter. Bishnoi, who is wanted in multiple high-profile criminal cases across India, has been identified as the key conspirator in the killing of politician Baba Siddique in October last year. He is the younger brother of incarcerated gang leader Lawrence Bishnoi, whose syndicate has been active across several northern states. Sources stated that Anmol is being brought back to India on a chartered aircraft along with two fugitives wanted in separate Punjab-related investigations. A senior officer said that once his asylum plea was dismissed on Monday, US authorities initiated deportation procedures and notified Indian agencies of his travel schedule. The officer added that detailed coordination began immediately for securing his arrival. Indian security officials said arrangements have been made for multiple teams of Delhi Police to be deployed at the Indira Gandhi International Airport to assist central agencies. Preliminary discussions indicate that the National Investigation Agency will present Bishnoi before a court to seek custody in connection with ongoing terror and organised crime cases. Investigators are prioritising his alleged involvement in the murder of Punjabi singer Sidhu Moosewala in May 2022, the killing of Baba Siddique in 2024, and a firing incident outside the residence of actor Salman Khan. Baba Siddique’s son, Zeeshan Siddique, confirmed that he received an email from US authorities informing him that Bishnoi had been “removed” from the country. He said the communication was sent because his contact information was registered as part of the victim’s family details, and such updates were routinely provided. However, he added that he had no clarity on Bishnoi’s exact travel status or location after removal. Baba Siddique was shot dead outside his Bandra office on October 12, 2024. Following the attack, Mumbai Police arrested 26 individuals and invoked sections of the Maharashtra Control of Organised Crime Act. Anmol was listed as the mastermind in the chargesheet, and police claimed that audio clips recovered from the accused matched his voice, allegedly giving instructions for the execution of the murder plot. Indian authorities had sought Bishnoi’s extradition in January last year. In response, the US Department of State had requested additional information in March, specifically asking for detailed proof of his direct role in various crimes and supporting technical evidence. Bishnoi was arrested by US immigration officials in November 2024 for travelling with forged documents but was later released on bail after a period of detention. Investigators said Anmol fled to the United States in May 2022 using a fake passport issued under the name “Bhanu.” His cover began to unravel when US immigration authorities flagged discrepancies in reference letters submitted with his travel documents. A Red Corner Notice was issued against him in December 2022, and the NIA announced a reward of Rs 10 lakh for information leading to his capture. Officials noted that Bishnoi faces 31 criminal cases, including 22 in Rajasthan alone, and has nine pending arrest warrants. The Lawrence Bishnoi syndicate, which he is believed to have helped manage from abroad, spans Punjab, Haryana, Rajasthan and Delhi, and is suspected of carrying out extortion, targeted killings and coordinated operations using overseas handlers. With his deportation underway, agencies expect a significant breakthrough in investigations linked to the network’s recent activities.









