Washington, DC: The United States Supreme Court has rejected a plea by Tahawwur Hussain Rana, an accused in the 26/11 Mumbai terror attacks, to prevent his extradition to
Washington, DC: The United States Supreme Court has rejected a plea by Tahawwur Hussain Rana, an accused in the 26/11 Mumbai terror attacks, to prevent his extradition to India. Justice Elena Kagan made the ruling, dismissing his request for a stay. This decision paves the way for Rana’s extradition, where he will face trial for his alleged role in the deadly attacks.
Rana, a Pakistani-Canadian national, argued that extradition would put his life at risk due to his Muslim identity, Pakistani heritage, and deteriorating health. He claimed that he might not survive long enough to stand trial in India. However, the court denied his plea just days after former US President Donald Trump assured India that he would be sent back to face justice.
In his appeal, Rana insisted that he would face mistreatment in India. He referenced the 2023 Human Rights Watch report, which documented concerns about the treatment of religious minorities in the country. He also expressed fears that his chronic health conditions would worsen under Indian custody.
“If the court does not grant a stay, no further review will take place, and the US courts will lose jurisdiction,” Rana stated in his plea.
Despite his claims, the court remained unconvinced and ruled in favor of his extradition. This decision aligns with a previous ruling by a US district court that also approved his transfer to Indian authorities.
The 2008 Mumbai attacks, orchestrated by the Pakistan-based terrorist group Lashkar-e-Taiba, targeted multiple locations, including Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus railway station, the Taj Hotel, and the Oberoi Trident. The coordinated attacks left over 170 people dead and hundreds injured, causing international outrage.
Rana has long been a person of interest due to his close ties with David Coleman Headley, a key conspirator in the attacks. Headley, who scouted locations for the attack, previously testified against Rana. Now, with the Supreme Court’s decision, Indian authorities are set to proceed with his trial, marking a significant step in seeking justice for the victims of 26/11.
