Tahawwur Rana, an accused in the 26/11 Mumbai terror attacks, has been extradited to India, marking a significant development in the case. A seven-member special team from the National Investigation Agency (NIA) brought him to Delhi airport amidst tight security.
Mumbai Attack Mastermind: Tahawwur Hussain Rana, a key figure in the 26/11 Mumbai terror attacks and a close associate of David Coleman Headley, has been extradited from the United States. A seven-member NIA team arrived in Delhi late Wednesday with Rana. The 64-year-old was brought to Delhi on a chartered plane under strict security and immediately taken for a medical examination. NIA has now commenced detailed interrogation at its headquarters.
Rana Housed in Tihar's High-Security Ward
Sources indicate that Tahawwur Rana has been placed in a high-security section of Delhi's Tihar Jail. The jail administration has made special security arrangements. He is being held in an isolated cell under 24-hour surveillance and CCTV monitoring. Officials state he will be kept completely separate from other inmates.
The interrogation is being conducted jointly by NIA and officials from the Research and Analysis Wing (RAW). The agencies aim to delve into Rana's role, his coordination with Headley, his contacts with Pakistan's ISI, and his links with Lashkar-e-Taiba.
Legal Battle for Extradition Concludes
Tahawwur Rana's extradition involved a prolonged legal battle in the United States. He repeatedly filed appeals in US courts to prevent extradition, but ultimately, his petitions were dismissed by the US Supreme Court. This process involved extensive diplomatic negotiations between the Indian and US governments, with assurances of cooperation from the administration of former US President Donald Trump.
Charges Filed
The NIA has charged Rana under serious sections of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA), including murder, sedition, criminal conspiracy, forgery, and waging war against the Indian government. Rana is accused of not only participating in the 26/11 conspiracy but also assisting Headley in traveling to India and obtaining forged identity documents. Sources suggest Rana might later be transferred to Mumbai. He may be held in the same high-security cell at Arthur Road Jail where 26/11 convict Ajmal Kasab was kept. However, the final decision will be made after the NIA completes its interrogation.
Potential for Further Revelations
Investigative agencies expect Rana's interrogation to shed light on several unresolved aspects of the attack, including Pakistan's role, the funding network, the attackers' training, and the identification of any Indian agents. NIA sources hint that new names might emerge. This extradition is viewed as a significant diplomatic and legal victory for India in its global fight against terrorism. Information obtained from Tahawwur Rana could play a crucial role in preventing future attacks like 26/11.
