The Congress has claimed that the extradition of Tahawwur Rana, a key accused in the 26/11 Mumbai terror attacks, is the result of over 15 years of diplomatic, legal, and intelligence efforts initiated during the UPA era. Former Union Home Minister P. Chidambaram emphasized that the groundwork for Rana’s extradition began in 2009, with the registration of a case by the NIA and collaboration with international agencies. He accused the Modi government of taking undue credit for the extradition, asserting that it merely benefited from the strategic diplomacy and legal mechanisms established under the UPA.
Chidambaram highlighted that the UPA government had consistently pursued the case through institutional diplomacy and legal frameworks, even expressing disappointment over Rana’s earlier acquittal in a U.S. court. He stated that the extradition is a testament to what can be achieved through sincere diplomacy and international cooperation, rather than grandstanding or chest-thumping.
Rana, a Canadian citizen of Pakistani origin, is closely associated with David Coleman Headley, one of the main conspirators of the 26/11 attacks. His extradition follows the dismissal of his final appeal by the U.S. Supreme Court.
