26/11 Mumbai Terror Attack Suspect's Extradition To India May Happen Soon; NIA Ready For Next Steps

The National Investigation Agency (NIA) is prepared to begin proceedings for the extradition of 2008 Mumbai terror attack suspect Tahawwur Rana from the United States (US) to India next month, according to official sources, as reported by PTI.

A Canadian businessman with Pakistani roots, Rana had his 'status conference motion' dismissed by a US court recently. A ruling on his extradition to India is expected within 30 days.

The NIA is investigating his involvement in the 26/11 Pakistani terrorist attacks in 2008, and he was apprehended in the US for extradition to India.

The probe agency will seek diplomatic channels to bring the person to India if the extradition request is approved, according to sources.

A final decision on the matter is expected by 20 May.

Through his lawyer, Rana requested a court-ordered status conference in March to discuss case details and possible plea bargain with the prosecution.

In June 2021, a court in California held a hearing on extraditing Rana to India. Papers were filed in July, but the court has not yet issued a verdict on the US government's request.

On 21 July 2021, the final plea was submitted, and Rana remains detained. Accordingly, the court and attorneys should review the case's current status, suggested Rana's counsel due to the elapsed time.

The court granted the motion to update parties on the case status, and informed that a ruling will be issued in 30 days.

It denied the motion requesting a status conference, stating it is unnecessary and won't aid in the resolution of the matter.

Parties can file a joint status report within seven days to inform the court in case of any new developments before it rules.

Federal prosecutors claim Rana knew about David Coleman Headley's involvement with Lashkar-e-Taiba and, by aiding him, was supporting the group and its associates. This argument was presented during court hearings.

Rana was aware of Headley's planning, meetings, and targeted sites for the attacks.

The US government claims that Rana was part of the conspiracy and likely commissioned a terrorist act.

Rana's attorney opposed extradition.

Ten Pakistani terrorists attacked and killed people across Mumbai's landmark locations in 2008, resulting in 166 deaths, including six Americans, during a more than 60-hour siege.