Mumbai Attack Convict Tahawwur Rana to Be Extradited to India: U.S. Supreme Court Approves Request

Washington, January 25 : The U.S. Supreme Court has approved the extradition of Tahawwur Rana, a key conspirator in the 2008 Mumbai terrorist attacks, to India. Currently imprisoned in Los Angeles, the 63-year-old Pakistani-origin Canadian citizen was found guilty of aiding the horrific 26/11 attacks that left 166 people dead, including six American citizens.

The Supreme Court rejected Rana’s plea against extradition, stating it was inadmissible. The decision effectively ends his legal options to avoid being sent to India, where he faces charges for his involvement in one of the most devastating terror attacks in the country’s history.

Supreme Court Rejects Final Appeal

Rana had filed a review petition in the U.S. Supreme Court on November 13, 2024, seeking to block his extradition. However, on January 21, 2025, the court dismissed the petition, clearing the way for his extradition. The Supreme Court cited that the petition lacked merit and upheld prior rulings by lower courts, including the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit in San Francisco.

India’s Long-Standing Extradition Request

India has been pursuing Rana’s extradition for years, citing his direct role in facilitating the Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) operatives who carried out the attacks. Rana, a former doctor in the Pakistani Army, is accused of providing logistical support to David Coleman Headley, the mastermind behind the 26/11 attacks. Headley, who is currently serving a 35-year sentence in the U.S., had cooperated with investigators and testified against Rana.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) arrested Rana in 2009 in Chicago, accusing him of being an active member of Lashkar-e-Taiba. His trial revealed how he used his immigration consultancy business as a front to facilitate travel and reconnaissance operations for the attackers.

Key Role in the Mumbai Attacks

Tahawwur Rana’s involvement in the 26/11 attacks was significant. His close association with David Headley allowed the latter to survey and plan the attacks, targeting key locations in Mumbai, including:

• The Taj Mahal Palace Hotel
• Leopold Café
• Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus (CST)
• Nariman House

The three-day siege resulted in widespread destruction and claimed 166 lives, while injuring hundreds more. Rana’s assistance enabled Headley to travel freely and gather intelligence that was crucial for executing the terror plot.

International Implications

The extradition approval underscores the growing cooperation between India and the U.S. in combating terrorism. It also sends a strong message to terror networks and their facilitators that justice will be pursued relentlessly, regardless of borders.

Union Home Ministry officials in India have welcomed the decision, terming it a significant step toward ensuring justice for the victims of the Mumbai attacks.

Rana’s Background

Born in Pakistan, Rana later immigrated to Canada, where he became a citizen. Before moving to Canada, he served as a doctor in the Pakistani Army for 10 years. His ties to extremist networks reportedly deepened during this time. Utilizing his immigration business, he played a critical role in aiding terrorist operatives, including Headley.

Next Steps

With all legal hurdles cleared, Rana’s extradition to India is now imminent. Indian authorities are preparing for his transfer, which is expected to take place in the coming weeks. Once in India, Rana will face trial under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA) and other anti-terrorism laws.

Global Fight Against Terrorism

The extradition of Tahawwur Rana is a landmark decision in the global fight against terrorism. It highlights the necessity of international collaboration to bring perpetrators of such heinous crimes to justice. As India prepares to prosecute one of the key conspirators of the Mumbai attacks, the move is a step toward delivering closure to the victims and sending a strong message against terrorism.