Punjab Terror Plot Busted: Khalistani Mastermind Happy Passia Extradited from US to India; Wanted in 16 Criminal Cases
New Delhi: In a major breakthrough for Indian security agencies, Khalistani terrorist Harpreet Singh, alias Happy Passia, has been extradited to India from the United States, according to media reports. Happy, who is accused of orchestrating a series of terror attacks in Punjab, was earlier arrested in Sacramento, California in April this year.
After his arrest, he was placed in the custody of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), following which extradition procedures were initiated. Authorities confirmed that Happy had illegally entered the United States and was using burner phones to evade surveillance and arrest.
Linked to 2024 Chandigarh Grenade Attack; Named in NIA Chargesheet
The National Investigation Agency (NIA) has named Happy Passia in a chargesheet connected to the 2024 grenade attack in Chandigarh, which targeted a residence believed to be that of a retired Punjab Police officer. The NIA alleges that Happy, along with Pakistan-based terrorist Harwinder Singh Sandhu alias Rinda, facilitated the attack by providing logistical support, arms, ammunition, and terror funds to operatives on the ground.
Wanted in 16 Criminal Cases; Key Player in ISI-Backed Module
According to Punjab Police, Happy is a wanted fugitive in at least 16 criminal cases, ranging from terrorism to arms smuggling and conspiracy. His name also surfaced in the busting of a Pakistan-ISI-backed terror module jointly operated by him and another Khalistani operative Shamsher Singh alias Honey.
A report by the Hindustan Times detailed how the Punjab Police foiled multiple terror plots, arresting five individuals, including mastermind Abhijot Singh, who were involved in grenade attacks on police establishments in Batala and Gurdaspur.
Security Agencies Tighten Grip on Khalistani Network
Happy Passia’s extradition marks a significant win for Indian counter-terrorism agencies as they continue to crack down on transnational terror networks with alleged backing from Pakistan’s ISI. His interrogation is expected to yield crucial leads on Khalistani terror financing, foreign safe havens, and sleeper cells operating within India.
With this arrest, India has sent a clear signal about its zero-tolerance policy toward terrorism and its increasing success in international law enforcement collaboration.
