Introduction
The United States Supreme Court has rejected an emergency application filed by Tahawwur Rana, an accused in the 26/11 Mumbai terror attacks, opposing his extradition to India. Rana, a Canadian national of Pakistani origin, argued that his extradition would violate US law and international conventions due to concerns over potential torture and his severe medical conditions.
Rana's Legal Arguments
Rana filed an "Emergency Application For Stay" with the Associate Justice of the US Supreme Court and Circuit Justice for the Ninth Circuit. His petition stated that his extradition would violate the United Nations Convention Against Torture, citing substantial grounds to believe that he would face torture in India, particularly due to his identity as a Muslim of Pakistani origin.
Additionally, Rana's legal team highlighted his deteriorating health conditions, claiming that extradition would amount to a "de facto" death sentence. Medical records from July 2024 indicate that Rana suffers from multiple severe health issues, including:
- A history of heart attacks
- Parkinson’s disease with cognitive decline
- A mass suggestive of bladder cancer
- Stage 3 chronic kidney disease
- Chronic asthma
- Multiple COVID-19 infections
Rana argued that without a stay, US courts would lose jurisdiction over his case, and he would be left without legal recourse.
US and India’s Position on Extradition
The US government has supported Rana’s extradition, aligning with India's long-standing request to bring him to justice for his alleged role in the 26/11 Mumbai attacks. This decision follows a recent meeting between Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and former US President Donald Trump, where Trump announced that Rana would be extradited to face trial in India.
Rana’s Alleged Role in the 26/11 Attacks
The 26/11 Mumbai attacks, carried out on November 26, 2008, resulted in the deaths of 166 people across multiple locations in south Mumbai. The attack was orchestrated by the Pakistan-based terrorist group Lashkar-e-Taiba.
Rana, now 64, is known to have connections with David Coleman Headley, a Pakistani-American terrorist who played a key role in planning the attacks. Headley had conducted surveillance of target locations and provided intelligence to the attackers. Indian authorities have long sought Rana’s extradition, considering him a crucial figure in the case.
Conclusion
With the US Supreme Court’s rejection of Rana’s plea, the legal path is now clear for his extradition to India. The decision is seen as a significant step in ensuring accountability for the 26/11 attacks. Indian authorities are preparing to bring Rana to trial, reinforcing their commitment to justice for the victims of the tragic event.
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