Suspect Identified as Sunny Allegedly Linked to Khalistani Network; Local Police Kept in the Dark
Thenewsdose.com
Dharamshala/Shimla
July 4, 2025,UPDATED:11.50AM
In a dramatic turn of events during the ongoing 90th birthday celebrations of Tibetan spiritual leader the Dalai Lama, the National Investigation Agency (NIA) on Friday carried out a high-stakes raid on the premises of a local communication centre owner in McLeodganj, Dharamsala. The individual is suspected of having links with Khalistani elements operating both in India and abroad.
Security Concerns Over VVIP Movement
Sources confirmed that the operation is tied to heightened national security concerns, especially in light of the presence of several VVIPs and foreign dignitaries attending the high-profile event in the Himalayan town, a globally significant centre for the Tibetan community.
The timing of the raid, amidst such a sensitive occasion, has raised eyebrows. Deepak Kumar, Station House Officer (SHO) of McLeodganj Police Station, revealed that the local police force had not been informed in advance by the NIA. “We are trying to ascertain further details. It appears to be linked to serious security threats,” he said.
Suspect Identified as Sunny, Foreign Connections Under Scanner
The individual under the NIA’s radar has been identified as Sunny, son of Ghindro Ram, who operates a communication and internet service centre located near the Dalai Lama’s temple complex — an area frequented by domestic and international tourists as well as Tibetan monks and officials.
According to officials, Sunny is married to a Russian national, who has been living with him in McLeodganj for several years. Investigators are examining the foreign connections of the couple, particularly focusing on suspected financial and communication links with overseas Khalistani networks.
Evidence Seized; Terror-Financing Angle Probed
The raid, which was still ongoing at the time of filing this report, covered Sunny’s residence and business premises. The NIA has seized electronic devices, including computer hard drives, mobile phones, and suspicious documents, which are now being sent for forensic examination.
A senior police official based in Dharamsala disclosed that the operation is believed to be connected to a broader investigation into terror financing aimed at supporting Khalistani separatist activities.
“Preliminary information suggests there were questionable bank transactions and possible violations in foreign exchange regulations,” the official said. The NIA is also scrutinising Sunny’s banking records, remittances, and digital communication patterns, which reportedly triggered red flags during routine surveillance by central agencies.
Backdrop of Celebrations and Global Attention
The raid has cast a shadow over the otherwise celebratory atmosphere in McLeodganj, where devotees, officials, and dignitaries have gathered from around the world to mark the Dalai Lama’s milestone birthday. Authorities have already ramped up security in the town, which remains under tight surveillance.
The NIA, which has expanded its scope of anti-terror operations across the country in recent years, has neither issued an official statement nor confirmed the extent of Sunny’s involvement as of yet.
