Lawrence Bishnoi is a name that resonates in the realm of organized crime in India. With a background steeped in academic pursuits and a sharp turn into criminal activities, Bishnoi’s life story is one of complexity, marked by violence, political affiliations, and a relentless grip on a sprawling gang network. This biography explores his journey from a promising student to a notorious gangster, shedding light on the factors that shaped his life choices.
Lawrence Bishnoi: The Rise and Fall of an Infamous Indian Gangster
Lawrence Bishnoi is a name that resonates in the realm of organized crime in India. With a background steeped in academic pursuits and a sharp turn into criminal activities, Bishnoi’s life story is one of complexity, marked by violence, political affiliations, and a relentless grip on a sprawling gang network. This biography explores his journey from a promising student to a notorious gangster, shedding light on the factors that shaped his life choices.
Early Life: Roots in Punjab
Lawrence Bishnoi was born on February 12, 1993, in Dutarawali, a village in the Fazilka district of Punjab, India. He grew up in a disciplined family; his father, a former constable in the Haryana Police, instilled in him a sense of hard work and resilience. Following his father’s departure from the police force in 1997, the family turned to farming, which further emphasized the values of diligence and perseverance in Lawrence’s upbringing.
Education: A Promise of Future
Bishnoi completed his early education in Abohar, Punjab, before moving to Chandigarh in 2010 to pursue higher studies at DAV College. This transition marked a significant phase in his life, opening doors to new opportunities and challenges. In 2011, he enrolled at Panjab University, where he not only pursued academic excellence but also became actively involved in student politics.
Political Awakening
During his time at Panjab University, Lawrence became a member of the Panjab University Campus Students Council, where he honed his leadership skills and found his voice among peers. It was in this politically charged environment that he formed a close bond with Goldy Brar, who would later become a prominent figure in the underworld. Their friendship flourished against the backdrop of campus politics, paving the way for Lawrence’s eventual involvement in criminal activities.
The Shift: From Education to Crime
Despite his promising academic path, Lawrence’s descent into crime began between 2010 and 2012 in Chandigarh. He found himself entangled in a series of criminal activities, leading to multiple First Information Reports (FIRs) filed against him for offenses such as attempted murder, assault, and robbery. The tensions from his involvement in student politics often escalated into violence, setting the stage for his criminal career.
Gang Formation and Violence
While serving time in jail, Bishnoi formed alliances with other inmates, further solidifying his gang’s influence. After his release, he reconnected with arms dealers and expanded his criminal operations, particularly during his university years. His violent actions escalated dramatically after he graduated in 2013, culminating in shootings during student elections and a venture into liquor dealing.
The Notorious Gangster
Lawrence’s rise in the criminal world was characterized by a series of violent incidents that caught the attention of law enforcement agencies. His gang reportedly involved over 700 shooters spread across five Indian states, creating an extensive network of fear and intimidation. This widespread influence led to increased scrutiny from authorities, highlighting the challenges in addressing gang-related violence.
Relationships and Operations from Jail
Bishnoi’s criminal operations continued even while incarcerated. He developed a relationship with Jaswinder Singh, known as “Rocky,” a gangster-turned-politician, which allowed him to maintain his influence. After being transferred to Tihar Jail in 2021, Bishnoi was charged under the Maharashtra Control of Organized Crime Act (MCOCA) but continued to manage his syndicate through illegal communication with associates.
High-Profile Threats and Assassinations
Targeting Salman Khan
In 2018, Lawrence Bishnoi’s gang made headlines when his associate, Sampath Nehra, attempted to attack Bollywood actor Salman Khan. The attack stemmed from the notorious Black Buck hunting case, as Bishnoi’s gang considers the blackbuck a sacred animal. Following this incident, Bishnoi issued direct threats against Khan, specifically stating that he would be killed in Jodhpur.
The threats escalated in November 2023, when Bishnoi claimed responsibility for a shooting at the home of actor-singer Gippy Grewal, citing Grewal’s alleged connection to Salman Khan. However, Grewal denied any friendship with Khan, casting doubt on the gang’s motives and raising questions about their reach into the entertainment industry.
Assassination of Sidhu Moose Wala
The landscape of violence further deepened with the tragic assassination of Punjabi singer Sidhu Moose Wala on May 29, 2022. Bishnoi’s associate, Goldy Brar, claimed responsibility for orchestrating the murder in coordination with Bishnoi, despite the latter being in custody at the time. This act of violence not only shocked the music industry but also showcased the gang’s extensive reach and willingness to target high-profile individuals.
Following Moose Wala’s assassination, Bishnoi sought protection from the Delhi High Court, fearing a possible fake encounter by the Punjab Police. However, he later withdrew his petitions from both the Delhi High Court and the Punjab and Haryana High Court.
Violence Against Khalistani Separatists
On September 21, 2023, Bishnoi claimed responsibility for the killing of Sukhdool Singh Gill, also known as Sukha Duneke, a Khalistani separatist. This act further illustrated the gang’s violent operations and their readiness to target individuals they perceive as threats to their influence.
Political Assassinations
The gang’s violent streak continued with the assassination of Sukhdev Singh Gogamedi, President of the Karni Sena, on December 5, 2023. This killing was publicly claimed by the Bishnoi gang through Rohit Godara, a known gang member, demonstrating the gang’s entrenchment in both the criminal and political spheres.
Killing of Baba Siddique
The Bishnoi gang struck again on October 12, 2024, when they claimed responsibility for the assassination of Baba Siddique, a former Maharashtra Cabinet minister. Citing Siddique’s close ties to Salman Khan as a motive, the killing underscored the gang’s determination to eliminate anyone perceived as a threat.
International Allegations and Network
Allegations by Canada
In October 2024, the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) alleged that Lawrence Bishnoi’s gang was involved in targeted attacks against pro-Khalistan individuals in Canada. The revelation led to significant diplomatic discussions, as Indian National Security Adviser Ajit Doval met with his Canadian counterpart in Singapore to address the concerns. Reports indicated that evidence linked Bishnoi’s gang to the killing of Hardeep Singh Nijjar, a pro-Khalistan leader, raising international scrutiny on the gang’s operations.
A Global Network
The Bishnoi gang’s reach extends beyond India, reportedly boasting over 700 members spread across five Indian states and engaging in international operations. Despite being imprisoned, Bishnoi’s ability to maintain control over his syndicate through illegal communications showcases the complexity of his criminal operations.
Public Perception and Media Attention
Lawrence Bishnoi’s story has captivated the media and the public alike. Many portray him as a notorious gangster, but beyond the headlines lies a more complex narrative. Discussions around his motivations and background continue to evolve, inviting debates on the systemic issues contributing to his rise.
His life embodies the struggles of a young man caught between ambition and violence, making his story a cautionary tale of the consequences of choices made in the pursuit of power. As the authorities continue to grapple with the implications of his actions, Lawrence Bishnoi remains a figure of intrigue, fear, and controversy in the landscape of organized crime in India.
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