Tahawwur Hussain Rana, a key figure in the 2008 Mumbai terror attacks, is all set to be extradited from the United States to India. Reports suggest that all necessary legal processes are nearing completion.
A special plane is transporting him to the national capital New Delhi. While in Delhi, he will face trial for his involvement in the devastating 26/11 Mumbai attacks. Rana’s extradition follows persistent efforts by the Indian government. This comes after his latest attempt to block the process was rejected by the U.S. Supreme Court in April 2025.
US Supreme Court’s statement
In an order dated April 7, 2025, the US Supreme Court said, “The application for stay addressed to The Chief Justice and referred to the Court is denied.” The emergency application was filed on March 20 by Rana with Chief Justice John Roberts.
Who is Tahawwur Rana?
Tahawwur Rana, is a Pakistani-Canadian businessman and former military doctor. Rana was heavily involved in the planning and execution of the 26/11 attacks in Mumbai. His childhood friend, David Coleman Headley, who conducted reconnaissance for the attacks. According to reports Headley used Rana’s immigration firm as a cover.
Headley’s travel to India was facilitated by Rana providing logistics support, and even assisted in identifying targets for the attack. Indian authorities believe that his interrogation could shed more light on the role of Pakistani handlers on the deadly attack. This also includes interrogation of members of the ISI and Pakistan Army, in orchestrating the attack.
Legal and Logistical Preparations
Rana will be taken into custody following his arrival in India. He will be taken into custody by the National Investigation Agency (NIA) and interrogated for the first time regarding his involvement in the attack.
Furthermore, special jail arrangements are being made in the wake of his arrival in accordance with U.S. judicial guidelines. Security agencies in India are closely monitoring the whole process. This will mark as a crucial step in holding those responsible for the 26/11 attack accountable.
A Step Closer to Justice
Meanwhile, the extradition of Tahawwur Rana marks a major breakthrough in the long-awaited justice for the victims of the 26/11 attacks. While David Headley, who was arrested in the U.S. in 2009, is already serving a sentence.
