Tahawwur’s extradition critical step  towards justice for 26/11 victims: US

Marking the 17th anniversary of the 26/11 Mumbai attacks, the United States on Wednesday said the extradition of Tahawwur Hussain Rana to India this year was a “critical and major step forward” in the pursuit of justice for the victims of the terror strike.

In a strong statement, the US Embassy said it “honours the memory of the lives lost and stands in solidarity with the survivors and families,” reaffirming Washington’s long-standing support for India’s efforts to hold the perpetrators accountable.

Terming Rana’s extradition “critical,” the embassy said the move “represents a major step toward seeking justice for the victims who were killed in the heinous attacks and their families”. It added that the US would continue working closely with India to combat terrorism and “ensure the safety and security of our citizens.”

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, using the hashtag NeverForget, posted on X that the world continues to remember the victims and heroes of the 2008 carnage. “Zero tolerance for terror in all forms and manifestations… Reaffirm our resolve to bring all those involved to justice,” he wrote.

Pakistani-origin Canadian national Rana was handed over to Indian authorities on April 10 after the US Supreme Court on April 4 dismissed his final challenge to the extradition order. The ruling ended a prolonged legal battle that had delayed India’s attempt to put him on trial for his alleged role in the attacks that killed 166 people, including six American citizens.

Investigators allege Rana enabled Lashkar-e-Taiba operative David Coleman Headley’s reconnaissance of targets by opening a Mumbai branch of his immigration services firm and installing Headley as its head, giving him legitimate cover to survey hotels, Jewish centres and transport hubs.

Rana is also accused of helping Headley secure visas through fraudulent applications and fabricated documents arranged via an unsuspecting business associate. Investigators say Headley kept Rana informed throughout the reconnaissance phase, including Lashkar’s feedback and potential attack plans.

Tahawwur is currently facing trial in India on conspiracy and terrorism charges linked to one of the deadliest terror strikes on Indian soil.