Tahawwur Hussain Rana, accused of the 26/11 Mumbai terrorist attacks, is being extradited from the United States to India. Former Indian Home Secretary, Gopal Krishna Pillai, has asserted that the charges against Tahawwur Rana are indisputable, and he could face the death penalty. Pillai explained that Rana was a close associate of David Coleman Headley, the architect behind the Mumbai attacks who conducted reconnaissance for them. It was under the guise of his firm that Rana opened an immigration office in Mumbai, providing Headley with employment and arranging for a visa to enter India.
According to PTI, Pillai highlighted that Rana assured Headley's cover in India, allowing him to meticulously plan the attacks. Their close relationship means significant revelations could emerge from questioning him, unearthing what details Headley shared with him.
Pillai clarified that although Rana may not have conducted the reconnaissance himself, his involvement in the conspiracy brands him as a co-conspirator. It is likely that the courts will hand down a severe sentence, possibly life imprisonment or even the death penalty.
'Pakistan's Role Already Established'
Pillai pointed out that investigations by the NIA (National Investigation Agency) have already made clear Pakistan's involvement in the attacks. Many accused individuals, currently in Pakistan, have yet to be extradited to India, nor have any actions been taken against them there. He stated that while Pakistan initially assisted to some extent, it later fully obstructed the investigation.
Rana's Extradition Sends Strong Message to Terrorists: R.K. Singh
Another former Home Secretary and ex-Central Minister, R.K. Singh, remarked that the extradition of Tahawwur Rana marks a significant diplomatic triumph for India. This sends a clear message to terrorists that if a country is targeted, they will face justice where the crime occurred, regardless of where they attempt to flee or hide. Singh indicated that Rana's interrogation might reveal new insights and expose more accomplices, especially those orchestrating plans from Pakistan. He emphasized that the entire operation was orchestrated by Pakistan's 'Deep State' including military and ISI. The training, weapons, and attack were all orchestrated from there.
'Visa Issuance Under Scrutiny'
R.K. Singh expressed concern over how Rana and Headley managed to secure visas repeatedly for India, highlighting the need to investigate possible collaborators or ISI agents within India. Rana's interrogation could shed light on these issues as well.
Firm Action Against Traitors Under Modi Government: Nityanand Rai
Union Minister of State for Home, Nityanand Rai, stated that under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah, there has been firm action against traitors and terrorists. He revealed that no traitors have been pardoned in the past 14 years, marking a decisive stand against terror.
