• Source:JND
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In a significant diplomatic and legal breakthrough, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar has hailed the extradition of Tahawwur Hussain Rana, a key conspirator in the 26/11 Mumbai terror attacks, as “a big step” toward justice for the victims and their families. The statement comes after the United States extradited Rana to India to face trial for his role in one of the deadliest terror attacks in India’s history.

Responding to the development on social media platform X, Jaishankar expressed appreciation for the United States’ cooperation on counter-terrorism. “Appreciate the counter-terrorism cooperation between our two countries. This is indeed a big step in ensuring justice for the victims of 26/11 attacks,” he posted.

Rana, a Pakistani-American and former army doctor, was extradited to India on April 9 and taken into custody upon arrival in New Delhi. He was later presented before the NIA Special Court at Patiala House, marking the beginning of what Indian officials hope will be the final leg of a long-awaited trial.

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US Voices Support

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio also commented on the extradition, emphasising America’s long-standing commitment to justice in the aftermath of the 2008 attacks. “We extradited Tahawwur Hussain Rana to India to face charges for his role in planning the horrific 2008 Mumbai terrorist attacks. Together, with India, we've long sought justice for the 166 people, including 6 Americans, who lost their lives in these attacks. I'm glad that day has come,” Rubio said.

US State Department spokesperson Tammy Bruce confirmed the extradition and reiterated Washington’s support for India’s pursuit of justice. “The United States has long supported India’s efforts to ensure those responsible for these attacks are brought to justice,” she said. Bruce also recalled President Donald Trump’s remarks that both countries must continue collaborating to combat global terrorism.

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Convicted Terrorist Returns

The US Department of Justice issued a statement describing Rana as a convicted terrorist who faces multiple charges in India. The department referred to the 26/11 attacks as “among the most horrific and catastrophic in India’s history.”

The 2008 Mumbai attacks, carried out by Pakistan-based terror group Lashkar-e-Taiba, left 166 people dead, including foreign nationals, and shocked the world. Rana is accused of assisting David Headley, another key conspirator, in scouting targets in Mumbai.

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