The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has designated 23 Pakistan-based individuals as terrorists under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA), according to an official notification issued on July 4. The individuals are linked to Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) and Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM), two groups proscribed by the United Nations and India.
Details of the Designation
The notification lists names including Hafiz Saeed, Zaki-ur-Rehman Lakhvi, and Maulana Masood Azhar, among others. The MHA stated that these individuals are involved in cross-border terrorism, funding of terror activities, and radicalization. The move aims to freeze their assets and prevent them from using Indian financial systems.
According to the MHA, the designation under the Fourth Schedule of the UAPA allows for the freezing of funds, financial assets, and economic resources belonging to these individuals. It also prohibits any person from making funds available for their benefit.
Impact on Counter-Terror Operations
This action strengthens India's legal framework to combat terrorism, particularly targeting Pakistan-based entities. The MHA emphasized that these individuals pose a threat to national security and have been involved in planning and executing terror attacks on Indian soil. The designation is also expected to assist in international cooperation, as India seeks to have these individuals listed under UN Security Council sanctions.
Officials said that the government remains committed to taking all necessary measures to dismantle terror networks. The notification comes amid ongoing efforts to curb terrorism financing and radicalization through enhanced surveillance and legal action.
The MHA's notification further states that the individuals have been involved in activities threatening the sovereignty and integrity of India. The government has urged citizens to report any suspicious activities related to these designated terrorists.
