RBI issues multiple advisories implementing updates to UN sanctions lists under UAPA, requiring financial entities to amend watchlists for Taliban and ISIL (Da'esh) designations. Three entries removed, eight amended across UNSC 1989 and 1988 regimes.
RBI Updates Terror Financing Sanctions Lists
Between October 19 and October 30, 2026, the Reserve Bank of India issued a series of advisories directing all financial institutions to implement updates to the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) sanctions lists under Section 51A of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, 1967 (UAPA).
The updates include the amendment of 05 entries in the 1988 (Taliban) sanctions list and 06 entries across the 1267/1989 (ISIL (Da'esh) and Al-Qaida) sanctions list. Additionally, 03 individuals and entities have been delisted from the latter regime. Regulated entities are directed to immediately align their screening systems with the revised lists.
"Entities are required to freeze assets, prevent access, and report any holdings related to listed persons without delay,"stated the October 30 circular. Implications for practitioners: Compliance officers must verify client databases against the updated UN Consolidated List. Legal advisors should assist in reviewing customer due diligence and asset-freezing protocols under PMLA and UAPA frameworks.
Citations
- Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, 1967
