NIA probes Khalistani terror finance links in McLeodganj amid Dalai Lama’s 90th birthday celebrations

The National Investigation Agency (NIA) carried out a high-profile raid in McLeodganj, Himachal Pradesh, amid the ongoing 90th birthday celebrations of Tibetan spiritual leader, the Dalai Lama. The raid, which is believed to be linked to alleged Khalistani terror financing, has triggered heightened security concerns in the region that’s currently hosting numerous VVIPs for the spiritual leader’s landmark celebrations, The Tribune reported.



The operation was conducted last week at the premises of a local communication centre owner, identified as Sunny, son of Ghindro Ram. He runs a business near the Dalai Lama’s temple and is reportedly married to a Russian national who has been residing with him in McLeodganj for several years.



According to The Tribune, sources within the investigation agency said the raid was prompted by concerns over suspicious financial transactions and foreign exchange dealings, potentially tied to Khalistani sympathisers operating both in India and abroad.



Without prior coordination, the raid caught local authorities by surprise. Deepak Kumar, Station House Officer of McLeodganj Police Station, confirmed: “We are trying to ascertain the details. It appears to be related to high-level security concerns.” Another senior police official from Dharamshala added that the probe is focused on potential terror financing involving Khalistani groups, The Tribune reported.



The NIA team searched both Sunny’s home and business premises, seizing documents, mobile phones, computer hard drives and other materials for forensic analysis. Investigators are also examining possible overseas links connected to his financial activities.



The timing of the raid is significant, coming in the midst of large-scale celebrations marking the 90th birthday of the 14th Dalai Lama, Tenzin Gyatso, who is widely revered as a global icon of peace and compassion. The festivities, which began on June 30 at Tsuglagkhang, the main temple in McLeodganj, have drawn dignitaries, monks and followers from around the world.



In a significant announcement just days before the celebrations, the Dalai Lama reaffirmed the continuation of the spiritual institution he represents. In a statement issued on May 21, the Dalai Lama declared that the Gaden Phodrang Trust, his personal trust, would have the sole authority to recognise his successor.



The statement, delivered in Tibetan, puts to rest longstanding speculation about whether the institution of the Dalai Lama would end with the 14th reincarnation. “The institution of the Dalai Lama will continue,” he said.