Washington
In a significant development, a US court has rejected the writ of habeas corpus filed by Tahawwur Rana, a Pakistani-origin Canadian businessman. This decision clears the path for US Secretary of State Antony Blinken to issue a certification for Rana’s extradition to India. Rana is sought by Indian authorities for his alleged involvement in the 2008 Mumbai terror attacks. This court ruling is a notable victory for India’s efforts to bring to justice the individuals responsible for the 26/11 Mumbai attacks. Earlier in May, a US court had already granted approval for Rana’s extradition to India. Despite this favorable extradition ruling, Rana lodged a writ of habeas corpus in June, challenging the court’s decision to comply with the US government’s request for his extradition to India. However, on August 10, United States District Judge Dale S Fischer of the Central District of California issued an order stating that Rana’s petition for a writ of habeas corpus has been denied. Subsequently, Rana has taken further legal action by filing an appeal against the order. He has also requested a stay on his extradition to India until his appeal is heard in the Ninth Circuit Court. Tahawwur Rana is accused of playing a role in the 2008 Mumbai attacks and is believed to be associated with David Coleman Headley, a Pakistani-American terrorist who was a key conspirator behind the 26/11 attacks. The decision to extradite Rana is a significant step toward holding those involved accountable for the tragic events that unfolded during the Mumbai attacks.
