Tahawwur Rana extradited to India in 26/11 case, lands in Delhi for interrogation

Tahawwur Hussain Rana, a key accused in the 2008 Mumbai terror attacks, was extradited from the United States to India on Thursday, marking a significant development in the long-pending case. Rana, a Pakistani-origin Canadian businessman, landed in New Delhi in the afternoon and was immediately taken into custody by Indian authorities.

Also read: 26/11 accused Tahawwur Rana expected in Delhi for high-security interrogation

The National Investigation Agency (NIA), which has been pursuing his extradition for years, will formally arrest Rana and present him before a Delhi court to begin legal proceedings. He is expected to face a detailed interrogation in connection with his alleged role in facilitating the terror strikes that claimed over 160 lives in Mumbai nearly 17 years ago.

Rana is accused of aiding David Coleman Headley, the Pakistani-American terrorist who conducted reconnaissance missions for the attacks, by helping him with documents and travel arrangements under the guise of Rana’s immigration business.

The extradition has ignited a wave of responses across political and diplomatic circles. While the central government hailed it as a major diplomatic win and a testament to India’s global influence under Prime Minister Narendra Modi, opposition leaders have raised concerns over its timing, calling it a politically motivated gesture ahead of upcoming elections.

Security agencies have stepped up vigilance as the high-profile interrogation begins, with expectations of critical revelations regarding cross-border terror networks.