In a significant diplomatic and legal development, US President Donald Trump has announced the approval of Tahawwur Rana’s extradition to India. The decision was made public during a press conference at the White House following his meeting with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Describing Rana as “one of the very evil people” involved in the 26/11 Mumbai terror attacks, Trump confirmed that the accused would soon be sent to India to “face justice.”
"I am pleased to announce that my administration has approved the extradition of one of the plotters, Tahawwur Rana, and one of the very evil people of the world, having to do with the horrific 2008 Mumbai terrorist attack, to face justice in India," Trump stated.
End of a Lengthy Legal Battle
Rana, who had fought extradition for years, faced his final legal setback on January 21, 2025, when the US Supreme Court rejected his review petition, effectively clearing the path for his transfer. With no further legal recourse, Indian authorities are now working closely with their US counterparts to finalize the logistics of his surrender.
Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri confirmed the development, stating, “Mr. Rana has exhausted all legal avenues in the United States, with the US Supreme Court dismissing his appeal. We are now in touch with US authorities to work on the logistics of his surrender to Indian authorities.”
The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) had earlier emphasized its commitment to ensuring a smooth extradition process. MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal noted, “We are now working with the US side on procedural issues for the early extradition of the accused in the Mumbai terror attack.”
Rana’s Connection to the Mumbai Terror Attacks
Tahawwur Rana, a Canadian citizen of Pakistani origin, was arrested in 2009 in Chicago for his links to a Pakistan-backed terror network. The FBI charged him with supporting Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT), the terrorist organization responsible for the 26/11 attacks. Although Rana was convicted in the US for aiding LeT, he was acquitted of charges directly linked to the Mumbai attacks.
However, Indian investigators have consistently maintained that Rana played a crucial role by facilitating David Coleman Headley, one of the key planners, to use his immigration business as a front for conducting reconnaissance missions in Mumbai before the attacks.
Indian Authorities Prepare for Rana’s Return
A team from India’s National Investigation Agency (NIA) is expected to travel to the US shortly to complete the necessary formalities for Rana’s extradition. Reports indicate that senior officers of Inspector General and Deputy Inspector General rank will be part of the delegation, overseeing the final transfer.
According to ANI, the NIA has been working behind the scenes for months to ensure Rana’s extradition, with a dedicated team handling the legal and procedural aspects.
Strengthening Indo-US Security Cooperation
The approval of Rana’s extradition highlights the deepening security cooperation between India and the US, particularly in counter-terrorism efforts. Addressing concerns about anti-India elements operating in the US, Trump reaffirmed his commitment to working with India on crime and terrorism.
"I don't think India had a good relationship with the Biden administration... A lot of things happened that weren't very appropriate between India and the Biden administration. We are giving a very violent man (Tahawwur Rana) back to India immediately. There are more to follow because we have quite a few requests. So, we work with India on crime, and we want to make it good for India," Trump said.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi welcomed the US's decision and expressed gratitude to Trump for ensuring justice. A statement from the US State Department reiterated, “We have long supported India's efforts to ensure the perpetrators of the Mumbai terrorist attacks face justice.”
Next Steps: The Path to Justice
Once extradited, Rana is expected to stand trial in India for his alleged role in the Mumbai attacks, which resulted in 166 deaths and hundreds of injuries. Indian authorities have relentlessly pursued his extradition, determined to hold all those responsible for the attack accountable.
With all legal barriers now cleared, the final execution of the extradition order is the last remaining step. As the process moves forward, Indian security agencies are preparing for Rana’s return, marking a significant milestone in the pursuit of justice for the victims of the 26/11 Mumbai terror attacks.
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