In a deeply emotional response, Devika Natwarlal Rotawan, one of the youngest survivors of the 26/11 Mumbai terror attacks, has welcomed the extradition of Tahawwur Hussain Rana to India, calling it the “biggest victory against terrorism” for the country.
Speaking to media, Devika said,
“I am overjoyed that Tahawwur Rana is finally being brought back to India. This was the biggest victory against terrorism for India. So, I am very happy. I would like to thank the Governments of India and the US. The US Government supported the Government of India a lot.”
Now 24, Devika was just 9 years old when she was shot at Mumbai’s CST railway station during the 2008 attacks. Despite her injuries, she went on to become a key eyewitness, testifying against terrorist Ajmal Kasab in court. Her bravery made headlines nationwide and earned her accolades for her resilience and courage.
Devika urged Indian authorities to interrogate Rana thoroughly, emphasizing the importance of uncovering further information about terror networks operating in Pakistan.
“Information about the terrorists who are still hiding in Pakistan should be gathered, their planning for 26/11 and why was it done should be found out. Tahawwur Rana should be given death sentence at the earliest,” she said.
Tahawwur Rana Extradition: A Timeline
- April 7, 2025: The Supreme Court of the United States rejected Rana’s plea to stay his extradition.
- Rana had filed an emergency application with Chief Justice John Roberts on March 20.
- The court noted: “The application for stay addressed to The Chief Justice and referred to the Court is denied.”
Legal Background
Rana, a Pakistani-Canadian national, was convicted in the United States for supporting Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) — the terrorist group responsible for the 2008 attacks that claimed over 174 lives and injured hundreds. A criminal conspiracy case against him was registered by the National Investigation Agency (NIA) in Delhi after the attacks.
While Rana is being extradited for trial under Indian law, it remains to be seen if the Mumbai Crime Branch will be able to seek his custody.
“Only after examining the grounds of extradition will it be clear whether custody can be sought by the Mumbai Crime Branch,” said officials.
National and International Reactions
Rana’s extradition has been hailed across the political and legal spectrum in India:
- Home Minister Amit Shah called it a “big success” of PM Narendra Modi’s government.
- Former NIA DG YC Modi credited the coordinated efforts of the MEA, NIA, and U.S. officials for building a strong extradition case.
With the extradition now approved, Tahawwur Rana is expected to stand trial in India, potentially opening new avenues to uncover deeper links behind the 26/11 conspiracy, especially in relation to ISI-backed terror networks.