Lakhbir Singh Rode. File photo
GS Paul
Amritsar, December 5
Pakistan-based self-styled chief of the banned outfits Khalistan Liberation Force (KLF) and International Sikh Youth Federation, Lakhbir Singh Rode, 72, has reportedly died in Pakistan following cardiac arrest.
A nephew of slain Damdami Taksal head Jarnail Singh Bhindranwale, Lakhbir was listed as an ‘individual terrorist’ under the UAPA. He was accused in the 1985 bombing of the Air India jet Kanishka.
A native of Rode village in Moga, Lakhbir had initially fled to Dubai, but later moved to Pakistan. However, his family had stayed in Canada.
In 2002, India had submitted a list of 20 terrorists demanding their extradition from Pakistan.
The National Investigation Agency has also declared him as the mastermind behind the 2021 Ludhiana court complex blast. He was charged with smuggling Improvised Explosive Devices into India from Pakistan for triggering explosions across Punjab.
Lakhbir’s brother and former Akal Takht jathedar Jasbir Singh Rode confirmed the development to The Tribune.
“We have been informed by his (Lakhbir's) son, who lives in Canada, that his father died of a heart attack in Pakistan on December 2. He must have been cremated over there. We have no confirmation about it."
He said his brother was not keeping well for the past fortnight.
“He was diabetic and had recently undergone a bypass surgery," Jasbir said.
The Tribune News Service brings you the latest news, analysis and insights from the region, India and around the world. Follow the Tribune News Service for a wide-ranging coverage of events as they unfold, with perspective and clarity.
Join Whatsapp Channel of The Tribune for latest updates.
Most Read In 24 Hours
Don't Miss
View All
Top News
Telangana CM Revanth Reddy summoned by Delhi Police to join probe in Amit Shah’s 'doctored' video case
Revanth Reddy says he will not be afraid about notice over p...
Supreme Court stays CBI probe into West Bengal government officials' role in teacher recruitment scam
The top court, however, refused to stay for now cancellation...
After Surat setback, Congress faces Indore ignominy as Lok Sabha candidate Akshay Bam withdraws nomination
The Congress says there is a 'threat to democracy' and wonde...
Coast Guard apprehends Indian fishing boat with 173 kg of narcotics off Gujarat coast; 2 crew members detained
The seizure comes a day after ICG, ATS and NCB, in a joint o...
JD(S) to suspend ex-PM Deve Gowda's grandson Prajwal Revanna facing probe over alleged sexual abuse of women
Prajwal is BJP-JD(S) alliance candidate for Lok Sabha electi...
