Who is Lawrence Bishnoi and Why is He Targeting Salman Khan?

Lawrence Bishnoi, a notorious gangster from Punjab, has recently made headlines for his gang’s alleged involvement in high-profile criminal activities, including the murder of Punjabi singer Sidhu Moosewala and Maharashtra politician Baba Siddique. The gang has also been linked to threats against Bollywood superstar Salman Khan, raising concerns about the ongoing tensions between the two.

Background of Lawrence Bishnoi

At just 31 years old, Lawrence Bishnoi hails from a wealthy farming family in Dhattaranwali village, Punjab. He became involved in student politics during his college years, quickly transitioning to a life of crime, with his first charges surfacing in 2010 for attempted murder. Since then, he has been implicated in a series of serious offenses, including extortion and murder, and has maintained control of his operations from within Sabarmati Central Jail.

Recent Criminal Activities

The gang’s notoriety intensified following the murder of Baba Siddique on October 12, 2024, a well-known politician with ties to Bollywood. The investigation quickly pointed towards Bishnoi’s gang, especially after a social media post claimed responsibility for the murder. This incident underscored the gang’s violent tendencies and its expanding influence in both political and criminal circles.

In addition to political figures, Bishnoi’s gang has also targeted celebrities, with Salman Khan being a prominent focus. The tensions between Bishnoi and Khan date back to a 1998 poaching case, where Khan was accused of killing a blackbuck, an animal revered by the Bishnoi community. This long-standing grudge escalated into public threats against Khan’s life, leading to heightened security around the actor.

Threats Against Salman Khan

The threats against Salman Khan have been serious enough to warrant police action. Reports indicate that gang members fired shots outside Khan’s residence in April 2024, prompting authorities to increase security around him. Bishnoi’s threats are seen not only as a means to gain notoriety but also as a reflection of the deep cultural tensions surrounding the blackbuck incident.

The Killing of Sidhu Moosewala

The Bishnoi gang’s involvement in the shocking murder of Sidhu Moosewala in 2022 further solidified its reputation as a violent and organized criminal syndicate. Goldy Brar, a key associate of Bishnoi, claimed responsibility for the murder, citing revenge for a previous killing as the motive. This incident marked a significant turning point in public perception, highlighting the gang’s reach and influence.

Operating from Within Prison

What sets the Bishnoi gang apart is its ability to operate effectively from behind bars. Despite Lawrence Bishnoi’s incarceration, he continues to direct gang activities through associates and illicit communications, demonstrating the challenges law enforcement faces in curtailing gang operations.

Expanding Influence

As traditional Mumbai underworld figures like Dawood Ibrahim and Chhota Rajan have diminished, police believe that the Bishnoi gang is attempting to fill the void. Their reach into Bollywood and local politics indicates a growing presence in the criminal landscape of Mumbai.

Lawrence Bishnoi represents one of the most dangerous criminal elements currently active in India, with a web of criminal activities and a significant focus on high-profile targets, including Salman Khan. As the situation develops, authorities remain vigilant to prevent further violence and uphold public safety.