The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has designated 23 individuals as terrorists under the fourth schedule of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA), including a relative of Hafiz Saeed who was involved in conducting reconnaissance of the Ram temple and RSS headquarters.
Key Details of the Designation
According to an official notification issued on July 4, 2026, the MHA added the names to the list of designated terrorists under the UAPA. The individuals are accused of engaging in activities threatening the security and sovereignty of India.
The list includes a close relative of Hafiz Saeed, the mastermind of the 2008 Mumbai attacks and founder of Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT). The relative was reportedly part of a module that carried out detailed recce of sensitive locations, including the under-construction Ram temple in Ayodhya and the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) headquarters in Nagpur.
Background of the Operation
Intelligence agencies had earlier uncovered a plot involving Pakistan-based operatives who were tasked with gathering intelligence on high-profile targets in India. The recce was allegedly conducted to plan potential attacks. The MHA's action is part of a broader crackdown on terror networks operating from across the border.
“The designation under the fourth schedule of UAPA enables freezing of assets, restriction on movement, and other legal measures to prevent these individuals from carrying out unlawful activities,” said a senior MHA official, speaking on condition of anonymity.
Legal Implications
The fourth schedule of UAPA allows the central government to list individuals as terrorists based on evidence of their involvement in terrorism. Once designated, the persons face severe restrictions, including the freezing of bank accounts, seizure of property, and prohibition from traveling or communicating without prior permission.
In the past, India has used this provision to target operatives of LeT, Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM), and other Pakistan-based terror groups. The latest move underscores India’s commitment to countering cross-border terrorism.
Reactions and Analysis
Security experts have welcomed the move, stating that it sends a strong message to terror handlers. “Including a relative of Hafiz Saeed highlights the nexus between terrorist leaders and their family networks,” said a former intelligence officer, who wished not to be named.
The MHA has not disclosed the exact number of individuals involved in the recce operation. However, sources indicate that the module was dismantled following a joint operation by the National Investigation Agency (NIA) and state police forces.
