Mohammed Taufiq, popularly known as ‘Chhotu Chai Wala’, who rose to prominence for his alertness during the 26/11 Mumbai terror attacks, has strongly reacted to the extradition of Tahawwur Hussain Rana to India, demanding swift and strict punishment for the accused terrorist.
Speaking to media, Taufiq said:
“For India, there is no need to provide him with a cell, biryani, and facilities like those given to Kasab. There should be a separate law for terrorists—a system should be in place so that they are hanged within 2-3 months.”
#WATCH | Mumbai: On 26/11 Mumbai attacks accused Tahawwur Rana's extradition to India, Mohammed Taufiq, a tea seller known as 'Chhotu Chai Wala' whose alertness helped a large number of people escape the attack, says, "…For India, there is no need to provide him with a cell.… pic.twitter.com/zLqHEt7sHs
— ANI (@ANI) April 9, 2025
Taufiq’s small tea stall near the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus (CST) became a refuge for several people during the 2008 attacks. His timely warnings and efforts to hide civilians played a crucial role in saving dozens of lives.
Rana’s Extradition and Legal Proceedings
On April 7, the U.S. Supreme Court denied Tahawwur Rana’s emergency plea to halt his extradition, clearing the way for him to be tried in India.
“The application for stay addressed to The Chief Justice and referred to the Court is denied,” the order read.
The National Investigation Agency (NIA) has registered a criminal conspiracy case against Rana in connection to the 26/11 attacks that killed over 174 people, including foreign nationals.
While Rana’s extradition was sought in the NIA’s case filed in Delhi, it is still unclear whether the Mumbai Police can also seek custody of the accused for parallel investigations. Officials stated this will depend on the conditions of extradition.
Echoes of Ajmal Kasab’s Trial
Taufiq’s reference to Ajmal Kasab, the lone surviving terrorist of 26/11 who was captured alive and later executed in 2012, underscores public frustration over the extended legal and custodial proceedings involved in terrorism cases.
Kasab had received medical care, legal aid, and even drew media attention over reports of his alleged “luxury treatment” in custody—a matter that continues to spark debate in India.
Public Sentiment & Demands for Reform
Like many other 26/11 survivors and families of victims, Taufiq has called for:
- Stricter and expedited legal processes for terrorism-related cases.
- Special fast-track courts to try terrorism charges.
- Zero-tolerance policies towards foreign terror operatives found guilty.
Who Is Tahawwur Rana?
- A Pakistani-Canadian national, Rana was convicted in the United States for supporting the Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) terror group.
- His connections with David Coleman Headley, who carried out reconnaissance missions for the Mumbai attacks, link him directly to the planning stages of the 26/11 plot.
With the extradition approved and Rana soon to be in Indian custody, the focus now shifts to how swiftly and effectively the Indian judicial system can bring closure to one of the worst terrorist attacks in the country’s history.