India urges Pakistan to act against terrorists as key accused Rana faces NIA interrogation in broader conspiracy case.
NEW DELHI: India’s Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) on Thursday called on Pakistan to take action against the perpetrators of the 2008 Mumbai terror attacks, following the extradition of Tahawwur Hussain Rana, a key accused and close associate of David Coleman Headley.
MEA Slams Pakistan for Sheltering Terrorists
MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal, during his weekly briefing, said:
“Pakistan may try very hard, but its reputation as the epicentre of global terrorism will not diminish. The extradition of Rana is a reminder yet again to Pakistan that it needs to act to bring to justice other perpetrators of the Mumbai attacks, whom it continues to shield.”
Rana’s Extradition and Role in 26/11 Attacks
Rana, a Pakistani-origin Canadian businessman, was brought to India after the US Supreme Court rejected his final plea against extradition on April 4. He is accused of aiding the 2008 Mumbai terror attacks, which killed 166 people after 10 Pakistani terrorists targeted key locations, including:
- CST Railway Station
- Taj Mahal Palace Hotel
- Oberoi Trident Hotel
- Nariman House (Chabad House)
The attacks, lasting nearly 60 hours, were orchestrated by Pakistan-based Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) with support from Pakistan’s Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI).
NIA Custody and Expanded Conspiracy Probe
A Delhi court recently granted the National Investigation Agency (NIA) 18-day custody of Rana, citing sufficient evidence for interrogation. Special NIA judge Chander Jit Singh noted:
- The conspiracy extended beyond India’s borders.
- Multiple Indian cities, including Delhi, were potential targets.
- Rana must be confronted with witnesses, forensic evidence, and seized documents.
The court emphasized that a thorough probe is crucial for national security, stating:
“The investigating agency should get a fair chance to uncover the complete picture in a holistic manner.”
Pakistan’s Inaction Under Scrutiny
India’s statement comes as Pakistan continues to evade accountability for the 26/11 attacks. Despite overwhelming evidence, key masterminds like Hafiz Saeed and Zaki-ur-Rehman Lakhvi remain free in Pakistan.
What Next?
- NIA to probe Rana’s links with ISI and LeT.
- India to push for global pressure on Pakistan to act against terrorists.
- Diplomatic efforts to expose Pakistan’s role in shielding terror operatives.
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