Pakistani-origin Canadian businessman Tahawwur Hussain Rana, accused in the 26/11 Mumbai terror attacks, has moved a Delhi court seeking permission to communicate with his family members. The application was filed on April 19 through his counsel before Special Judge Hardeep Kaur. The court has directed the National Investigation Agency (NIA) to file its reply by April 23.
Rana, 64, was remanded to 18-day police custody on April 10 after being extradited from the United States. He is alleged to be a close associate of David Coleman Headley alias Daood Gilani, the main conspirator of the 2008 Mumbai attacks.
As per the NIA’s submissions, Headley had discussed the entire operation with Rana before visiting India. To prepare for potential complications, Headley had also sent an email to Rana outlining his belongings and assets. The NIA further alleged that Headley informed Rana about the involvement of Pakistani nationals Ilyas Kashmiri and Abdur Rehman in the terror plot, news agency PTI reported.
Terror Conspiracy Charge Against Tahawwur Hussain Rana
According to news agency ANI, the Patiala House Court, while granting Rana’s remand, acknowledged evidence pointing to a broad terror conspiracy spanning multiple Indian cities with possible targets beyond India’s borders. The court noted the gravity of the charges and emphasised their implications for national security.
It further underlined the need to confront Rana with witnesses, forensic evidence, and documents—particularly those connected to reconnaissance missions. Stressing adherence to legal protocols, the court mandated medical evaluations every 48 hours during his custody, citing Rana’s health concerns and sovereign assurances provided during extradition.
Rana faces charges under various provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita and the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA), including conspiracy, terrorism, forgery, and waging war against the nation. The court clarified that, in accordance with extradition law, Rana can only be tried for offences permitted under the extradition agreement.
Additionally, the court stated that Sections 16 and 18 of the UAPA apply in this case, which allows extended police custody beyond the usual limits specified in the Criminal Procedure Code, given the terrorism-related nature of the accusations.
Rana’s plea seeking contact with his family will now be heard on April 23.
