The US is assessing next steps for the extradition of Tahawwur Rana to India after the Supreme Court’s ruling cleared the way for him to face justice for his alleged role in the 2008 Mumbai terrorist
The United States Department of State is currently assessing the next steps regarding the extradition of Tahawwur Rana to India. Last week, India’s Supreme Court upheld his extradition, clearing the path for him to face justice for his alleged involvement in the 2008 Mumbai terrorist attacks.
Rana, of Pakistani descent, was linked to David Coleman Headley, who is serving a prison sentence in the US after pleading guilty for his role in the attacks. Headley’s deal with American authorities shields him from extradition. The US State Department responded to inquiries regarding Rana’s extradition, stating, “In view of the recent Supreme Court decision, and consistent with applicable US law, the Department of State is currently evaluating next steps in this case.”
The US has consistently supported India’s efforts to bring the Mumbai attack perpetrators to justice. Despite the lack of clarity on when Rana will be sent to India, the US has urged Pakistan to take action against Lashkar-e-Taiba terrorists who were involved in the attacks, which killed 167 people, including six Americans.
Rana was arrested by US authorities in October 2009 on charges related to the Mumbai attacks and a terrorist plot in Denmark. He was convicted in 2011 for terrorism-related charges linked to Denmark and providing material support to Lashkar-e-Taiba. However, he was acquitted of charges related to the Mumbai attacks. After serving half of his 14-year sentence, he was granted compassionate release in 2020 during the COVID-19 pandemic.
India has been pursuing his extradition since 2018, with a Mumbai court issuing an arrest warrant for him in connection to the 2008 attacks. Despite Rana’s claims against extradition, US courts have rejected his arguments, and his extradition appears to be moving forward.
NIA team may visit US
A team from the National Investigation Agency (NIA) – India’s investigation agency with specific focus on counter-terrorism – is likely to visit USA very soon to complete the formalities for the extradition of Tahawwur Rana, who is wanted in India for his role in the 26/11 Mumbai terror attacks, sources said.
As per sources, a team of Inspector General and Deputy Inspector General rank officers are likely to visit the USA by the end of this month, the move regarding it has been shared with the Ministry of Home Affairs as well as the Ministry of External Affairs.
The NIA has stated that Rana’s role in aiding and abetting Headley makes him a key figure in the conspiracy.
Following the US Supreme Court’s dismissal of Rana’s review petition, the extradition process has gained momentum. The upcoming visit by the NIA team signifies India’s determination to ensure justice for the victims of one of its worst terror attacks.
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