Cracks emerge in ISI-backed Khalistan-gangster nexus amid global crackdown

Vicky Nanjappa | July 2, 2026 1:05 PM

New Delhi, July 2 (IANS) Pakistan’s spy agency, the Inter-Services Intelligence, had set up the terrorist-gangster network with the intention of advancing activities linked to the Khalistan movement. The plan was to ensure that the gangster network smuggled narcotics, arms and ammunition, and raised funds for the Khalistan network.

Security crackdown in Northeast drives demand for Nepal marijuana

Vicky Nanjappa | July 2, 2026 1:01 PM

New Delhi, July 2 (IANS) When Narendra Modi first took over as Prime Minister in 2014, there was extensive focus on the northeastern states. While developmental works were sanctioned, plenty of emphasis was given to security considering that these were bordering states. The tightening of security in these states not only kept the borders secure, but also led to a collapse in the cultivation of marijuana. Now, this security crackdown in the Northeast drives demand for marijuana from Nepal.

Rights groups condemn arrest of Baloch activist, decry ‘Pakistani fascism’

IANS | July 2, 2026 11:06 AM

Quetta, July 2 (IANS) Several leading human rights organisations on Thursday strongly condemned the arrest of a woman activist and Baloch Yakjehti Committee (BYC) member, Syed Bibi, by Pakistani forces in Balochistan, describing it as part of an escalating crackdown on peaceful activists and "Pakistani fascism".

US lawmakers blast China's ethnic unity law

IANS | July 2, 2026 10:07 AM

Washington, July 2 (IANS) A bipartisan group of senior US lawmakers has sharply criticised China's newly enacted Ethnic Unity and Progress Law, saying it would further erode the rights of ethnic and religious minorities while expanding Beijing's ability to target critics beyond its borders.