2008 Mumbai attacks: Delhi court allows Tahawwur Rana to talk to kin over phone

A Delhi court on Monday granted permission to Tahawwur Hussain Rana, an accused in the 26/11 Mumbai terror attacks, to talk to his family members via a one-time phone call.

Special Judge Chander Jit Singh of the Patiala House Courts allowed the request under strict conditions. The call must follow the jail manual and will take place under the supervision of Tihar Jail authorities.

The court also requested a fresh report on Rana’s health, which must be submitted within 10 days. In addition, the judge directed jail authorities to file a report clarifying whether Rana should be allowed regular phone calls going forward.

Rana, a Pakistani-origin Canadian national who was extradited from the US and arrived in Delhi on April 10, is accused of facilitating the attacks by assisting David Coleman Headley, a convicted conspirator, in conducting reconnaissance missions in Mumbai.

Immediately after extradition, Rana was produced before a special NIA Court where the agency had initially sought 20 days of custody, but the court sanctioned 18 days weighing Rana’s legal and medical entitlements alongside the NIA’s claims.

As per NIA, Headley had shared details of the entire plan of 26/11 terror attack with Rana before coming to India. Expecting possible problems, Headley had also emailed Rana with information about his personal belongings and assets.

Rana has been booked under various provisions of the Indian Penal Code and the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, including charges of criminal conspiracy, terrorism, forgery, and waging war against the nation. However, the court has clarified that prosecution must remain confined to offences explicitly covered under the terms of the extradition agreement.