The Indian Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has reiterated its demand for the extradition or deportation of Arsh Dalla, a designated terrorist, following his recent arrest in Canada. The MEA expressed confidence that Canadian authorities would comply with India’s request to bring Dalla to justice.
Randhir Jaiswal, spokesperson for the MEA, addressed the media on Thursday in response to widespread reports about Dalla’s detention in Canada. “We anticipate that Mr. Dalla will be extradited or deported to India to face the charges against him,” Jaiswal stated. He added that Indian intelligence and law enforcement agencies are actively pursuing the extradition process.
Arsh Dalla is implicated in over 50 serious offenses in India, including multiple counts of murder, attempted murder, extortion, terrorist activities, and the financing of terrorism. In May 2022, Interpol issued a Red Corner Notice for his arrest, and he was officially designated as a terrorist by the Indian government in 2023.
Dalla’s activities are not limited to India; he has also been involved in similar illicit operations within Canada, contributing to his complex legal situation. Recent media reports, which began circulating on November 10, have highlighted his apprehension by Canadian authorities. Canadian print and broadcast outlets have extensively covered the story, noting that the Ontario court has scheduled a hearing to determine the next steps in the case.
In July 2023, India formally requested the Canadian government to provisionally arrest Dalla. However, this initial appeal was declined, prompting India to escalate its efforts. Under the Mutual Legal Assistance Treaty (MLAT) between the two nations, India has submitted additional requests seeking detailed information on Dalla’s residence, financial transactions with India, ownership of movable and immovable properties, and mobile phone records.
The MEA’s latest statement underscores India’s unwavering commitment to ensuring that individuals involved in terrorism and related crimes are held accountable, regardless of where they reside. “Our agencies are closely monitoring the situation and will continue to collaborate with Canadian counterparts to facilitate the extradition process,” Jaiswal affirmed.
#BREAKING: Canadian Court orders ban on media coverage on court proceedings about Khalistani terrorist Arsh Dalla after Canadian Govt/Police counsel moved an application urging for ban on media reportage. (It’s abundantly clear Justin Trudeau is protecting a Khalistani terrorist)
— Aditya Raj Kaul (@AdityaRajKaul) November 14, 2024
As the case progresses through the Ontario court system, international observers will be closely watching to see if Canada honors India’s extradition request. The outcome could set significant precedents for future cross-border legal cooperation in combating terrorism and transnational crime.
