Tahawwur Rana, a key accused in the 26/11 Mumbai terror attacks, has been extradited from the United States and is on his way to India. Sources told India Today TV that once he lands in Delhi, he will be arrested by the National Investigation Agency (NIA) and lodged in Tihar Central Jail under heightened security.
Rana, who was put on a special flight accompanied by intelligence and investigative officials, departed from the US at around 7:10 pm IST on Wednesday and is expected to arrive in Delhi by Thursday afternoon. The entire extradition operation is being closely monitored by National Security Advisor Ajit Doval, along with senior officials from the NIA and the Ministry of Home Affairs.
Trial in Delhi, Not Mumbai
Once in India, Tahawwur Rana will undergo a trial at a special NIA court in Delhi, not Mumbai. Due to security concerns, sources indicate he may be presented virtually before the NIA judge or physically at the judge’s residence, as courts remain closed on Thursday in observance of Mahavir Jayanti.
Also Read: 26/11 accused Tahawwur Rana now on a flight being extradited to India: Report
The trial will likely be conducted at Delhi’s Patiala House Court, which had earlier this year recalled its trial court records related to the 2008 Mumbai attacks from Mumbai. This step followed the US government’s approval of Rana’s extradition, ensuring that the trial could be effectively held in the capital.
Who is Tahawwur Rana?
Tahawwur Rana is a Canadian trader of Pakistani origin and a former captain in the Pakistan Army. He has been accused of aiding the 26/11 attacks by providing logistical support through forged documents and immigration services via his US-based company.
According to investigation agencies, Rana helped David Coleman Headley (alias Dawood Gilani), the Pakistani-American LeT operative, with cover for his reconnaissance missions in Mumbai. Headley is said to have surveyed several 26/11 targets, including locations later attacked by Lashkar-e-Taiba terrorists.
Rana himself reportedly travelled to Mumbai from November 11 to 21, 2008, staying at Hotel Renaissance in Powai. During this visit, he is believed to have reviewed preparations for the attacks.
Extradition After Years of Legal Battle
India formally requested Rana’s extradition in 2019 under the India-U.S. Extradition Treaty. After years of legal proceedings, the US Supreme Court rejected Rana’s final appeal earlier this year, clearing the way for his transfer to India.
In February, former US President Donald Trump had confirmed that Rana would be extradited to India and “face justice” for his alleged role in the 2008 Mumbai terror attacks.
26/11 Mumbai Attacks: A Timeline
The Mumbai terror attacks, which began on November 26, 2008, and lasted for over 60 hours, claimed the lives of 166 people, including six Americans. Ten terrorists from Pakistan stormed 12 locations in the city, including the Taj Mahal Palace Hotel, CST railway station, and Leopold Café.
Only one terrorist, Ajmal Kasab, was caught alive and was later executed in 2012 after a lengthy trial.
As Rana’s extradition marks a significant development in the pursuit of justice for the victims of the 26/11 attacks, all eyes are now on the upcoming proceedings in Delhi’s special NIA court.
