The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) on 4 July 2026 designated 23 individuals based in Pakistan as 'terrorists' under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA), 1967. The notification empowers the central government to add names of individuals to the list of designated terrorists if it believes they are involved in terrorism.
Legal Basis and Implications
Under Section 35 of the UAPA, the government can designate individuals as terrorists without prior judicial approval. This designation freezes their assets, prohibits them from accessing financial services, and allows law enforcement agencies to take preventive measures. The 23 individuals are accused of being involved in cross-border terrorism, including funding and orchestrating attacks in India.
Background and Previous Actions
India has previously designated numerous Pakistan-based entities and individuals, including Hafiz Saeed and Masood Azhar, under the UAPA and UN sanctions lists. The latest move comes amid heightened tensions over cross-border terrorism. According to MHA officials, the designations are based on intelligence inputs and evidence of their involvement in terrorist activities against India.
Impact on Bilateral Relations
The designations are expected to further strain India-Pakistan relations. Pakistan has condemned the move, calling it baseless. However, Indian officials maintain that the actions are necessary for national security. The MHA stated that the designations will help in preventing terror financing and disrupting networks operating from Pakistan.
