Lagatar24 Desk
New Delhi: Tahawwur Hussain Rana, a key accused in the 26/11 Mumbai terror attacks, has been extradited to India from the US and landed in Delhi on Wednesday. The 64-year-old Canadian citizen of Pakistani origin will now face trial for his role in one of the deadliest terror attacks on Indian soil that left 166 people dead.
Rana Taken Into NIA Custody, To Be Presented In Court
After landing in Delhi, Rana was immediately taken into custody by the National Investigation Agency (NIA) and is currently lodged in Tihar Jail under high security. He is expected to be presented before Delhi’s Patiala House Court shortly. Later, he may be transferred to Mumbai, where the 26/11 trial proceedings will take place, sources said.
Charges Against Tahawwur Rana
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Criminal Conspiracy
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Waging War Against Government of India
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Murder
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Forgery
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Violations under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA)
Major Diplomatic Victory For India
Union Home Minister Amit Shah called the extradition a major diplomatic success, crediting Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s strong international relations. The extradition was finalized following discussions between Home Minister Amit Shah, Foreign Minister S Jaishankar, and National Security Advisor Ajit Doval.
US President Donald Trump had announced Rana’s extradition approval during PM Modi’s US visit, calling Rana “very evil” and emphasizing that he would face justice in India.
Who is Tahawwur Rana?
A Chicago-based businessman, Rana is accused of providing logistical and financial support for the 26/11 Mumbai attacks planned by Pakistan-based terror outfit Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT).
David Coleman Headley, the prime accused in the 26/11 case, had testified that Rana helped him in setting up a cover company, the Immigrant Law Centre in Mumbai, which allowed Headley to survey attack locations across India.
Rana’s Legal Battle in the US
Rana was arrested in 2009 by the FBI for his involvement in a separate terror plot targeting a Danish newspaper. He was convicted in 2011 and has since served time in the US.
Rana appealed against his extradition to India, citing health concerns like abdominal aortic aneurysm, Parkinson’s disease, and suspected bladder cancer. However, US courts dismissed his appeal, paving the way for his extradition.
Background of 26/11 Mumbai Attacks
The 2008 terror attacks targeted multiple locations in Mumbai, including the Taj Hotel, CST Railway Station, and the Chabad House Jewish Centre.
The attacks were orchestrated by Lashkar-e-Taiba with Pakistan-based handlers.
Out of the 10 attackers, Ajmal Kasab was captured alive and executed in 2012 after trial.
