26/11 Plotter Tahawwur Rana Extradited to India, Lands in Delhi to Face Trial After 16 Years
Tahawwur Rana, a key accused in the 2008 Mumbai terror attacks, arrived in Delhi on Thursday following his extradition from the United States, marking a significant breakthrough in India’s long-standing efforts to bring him to justice.
Rana, a Canadian national of Pakistani origin, landed at Delhi’s Palam technical airport in a special aircraft escorted by a high-level team comprising Indian intelligence and investigative officials. According to sources, extraordinary security arrangements were put in place for his arrival, including bulletproof convoy vehicles and a team of armed commandos from the Delhi Police Special Cell.
He will immediately taken to the National Investigation Agency (NIA) headquarters, where a specially secured interrogation cell awaits. The NIA, which has been pursuing Rana’s extradition for over a decade, is expected to formally arrest him and present him before a Delhi court to seek custody.
The 63-year-old former Pakistani army doctor is accused of playing a pivotal role in facilitating the 26/11 attacks through his immigration consultancy business. His close associate, David Coleman Headley—already convicted and serving time in the US—had confessed to conducting reconnaissance in Mumbai ahead of the deadly attacks that claimed 166 lives and injured hundreds during a three-day siege in November 2008.
Rana faces multiple serious charges under Indian law, including criminal conspiracy, waging war against the nation, murder, and violations of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act. His trial is expected to be closely monitored both domestically and internationally.
Security experts and legal analysts have described his extradition as a rare diplomatic and judicial victory for India. “It’s a major step forward in holding those responsible for the 26/11 attacks accountable, particularly when it comes to cross-border complicity,” a senior official familiar with the case told Hindustan Times.
Rana’s arrival comes nearly 16 years after the attacks rocked India’s financial capital and led to sweeping changes in the country’s internal security policies. His questioning could also offer new insights into the extent of institutional support received by the perpetrators from Pakistan-based terror outfits and possibly elements within the state.
As the legal proceedings unfold, the NIA is likely to intensify its investigation to uncover further links and build a watertight case against Rana, whose extradition is being seen as a critical juncture in India’s ongoing efforts to secure justice for the victims of one of the deadliest terror attacks on Indian soil.
