New Delhi: Indian intelligence agencies have warned of a possible escalation in violent activities linked to pro-Khalistan groups, including plans to carry out targeted killings in India and abroad, according to officials familiar with the developments.

Security agencies believe that recent diplomatic efforts to reset relations between India and Canada have frustrated Khalistani elements operating overseas, prompting fears of renewed aggression.

The warning comes days after the killing of 45-year-old Punjabi-origin social media influencer Nancy Grewal in Canada. Grewal, who had openly criticised extremist Khalistani elements online, was stabbed to death on March 3.

In a video posted on February 22, Grewal had said she respected the idea of “original Khalistan” but condemned those who insult the Indian national flag. She had also spoken out against violence and alleged abuse against women within sections of the Khalistani movement.

Grewal was a vocal critic of Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, the leader of the banned organisation Sikhs for Justice (SFJ).

Although Canadian authorities have not publicly confirmed a motive behind the killing, Indian intelligence officials suspect the attack could be linked to her criticism of Khalistani leaders.

According to an Intelligence Bureau official, pro-Khalistan operatives led by figures such as Pannun are attempting to escalate violence in countries including Canada and the United Kingdom.

Officials say the strategy allegedly involves targeting members of the Indian diaspora abroad to create pressure on both Indian and foreign governments.

Security agencies have also received intelligence suggesting that Khalistani groups have prepared a list of individuals to be targeted in India and overseas. The alleged plan is not limited to isolated attacks but aims to create a sustained pattern of violence.

Intercepted communications reportedly indicate that some Khalistani operatives abroad have reached out to criminal networks in Punjab to execute potential attacks.

“Mass killings involving influential personalities are being considered as part of their strategy to spread fear and send a message to governments,” an official said.

Over the past several months, agencies have also reported attempts to revive the Khalistan movement in Punjab. Security officials say drones from across the Pakistan border have been used to drop arms, ammunition and narcotics into the state. The narcotics trade, officials believe, is being used to generate funds for pro-Khalistan activities. 

However, heightened border security has prevented many such attempts from succeeding. Officials also claim that the movement currently lacks significant support among youth in Punjab.

Sources say the alleged plans for violence come at a time when India and Canada have begun improving cooperation on security issues, including concerns related to Khalistani extremism.

Intelligence officials believe that the groups behind the threats aim to create fear through attacks on both prominent figures and civilians. “The objective is to send a message that any interference in their activities will have serious consequences,” an official said.