Sun Jan 26 05:17:51 UTC 2025: ## 26/11 Mumbai Attack Conspirator Tahawwur Rana’s Extradition to India Imminent After US Supreme Court Rejection
**NEW DELHI** – The extradition of Tahawwur Rana, a key conspirator in the 2008 Mumbai terror attacks, to India is imminent following the US Supreme Court’s rejection of his review petition. Rana, currently detained in Los Angeles, had exhausted all legal avenues to prevent his return to India to face trial for his alleged role in the attacks that killed 166 people.
The Indian government is now actively preparing for Rana’s transfer. Sources within the Ministry of Home Affairs revealed discussions are underway regarding the NIA team that will travel to the US to take custody, and whether a chartered plane or commercial flight will be used.
Earlier this month, Indian authorities responded to US inquiries concerning Rana’s treatment in Indian custody, including assurances about legal aid, security arrangements, and prison facilities. The Indian government confirmed Rana would be housed in Tihar Jail, highlighting its adherence to international standards and the provision of CCTV surveillance and adequate medical care.
Rana, a 63-year-old childhood friend of David Headley (who received a 35-year sentence for his role in the attacks), was convicted in the US in 2011 for providing material support to Lashkar-e-Taiba and for aiding a plot against a Danish newspaper. However, he was acquitted of directly supporting the Mumbai attacks. India filed charges against him in 2011 and issued warrants in 2014.
The push for Rana’s extradition, sources say, intensified over the past four years, reportedly driven by former US National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan. Discussions between Sullivan and India’s NSA Ajit Doval earlier this year further cemented the process. Once the NIA team completes the necessary procedures in the US, Rana will be brought back to India to face justice.
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