Taking another significant step under Modi government's 'Zero Tolerance Policy' against terrorism, Ministry of Home Affairs, under guidance of Union Home Minister Shri Amit Shah, has declared 23 more individuals as 'terrorists'

Why in news

The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA), under the guidance of Union Home Minister Shri Amit Shah, has designated 23 more individuals as 'terrorists' as part of the Modi government's 'Zero Tolerance Policy' against terrorism.

Exam relevance

GS3, GS2 · Internal Security, Governance · Prelims · Mains

Key facts

1. The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has designated 23 more individuals as 'terrorists'.
2. This action is taken under the Modi government's 'Zero Tolerance Policy' against terrorism.
3. The designated individuals are involved in anti-India activities, terrorist attacks, promoting terrorism, arms smuggling, cross-border infiltration, aiding terrorist organizations, fundraising, and recruiting terrorists.
4. Of the 23 designated terrorists, 17 are Pakistani nationals and 6 are Indian nationals.
5. These individuals are reportedly carrying out terrorist activities from Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK).
6. The decision aims to dismantle the terror ecosystem by curbing these terrorists' fundraising mechanisms, movement, recruitment capabilities, and terror-related activities.

Prelims pointers

• Number of individuals recently designated as 'terrorists' by MHA: 23.
• Breakdown of nationalities among the designated terrorists: 17 Pakistani, 6 Indian.
• The policy under which these designations were made: 'Zero Tolerance Policy' against terrorism.
• The Ministry responsible for the designation: Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA).

Mains practice question

Critically examine the effectiveness of designating individuals as 'terrorists' under India's 'Zero Tolerance Policy' against terrorism in dismantling the terror ecosystem. What are the potential challenges and implications of such a policy?

Static linkage

This action is part of India's ongoing efforts to strengthen its counter-terrorism framework and national security apparatus. It reflects the government's stated commitment to a robust policy against terrorism, aiming to disrupt terror financing, recruitment, and operational capabilities.

Significance

The designation of individuals as 'terrorists' under a 'Zero Tolerance Policy' is a significant step in India's counter-terrorism strategy. It aims to cripple the financial and operational networks of terror modules, thereby enhancing national security. By targeting individuals involved in various terror-related activities, including cross-border infiltration and fundraising, the government seeks to proactively dismantle the terror ecosystem. This move also sends a strong message to state and non-state actors supporting terrorism against India, potentially impacting their ability to operate freely.