New Delhi [India], April 10: The extradition of 26/11 Mumbai terror attack accused Tahawwur Rana is being hailed as a significant step forward in India’s global fight against terrorism, with top Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leaders emphasizing the move as a testament to India’s evolving national security doctrine.
BJP national spokesperson Shehzad Poonawalla called the extradition a “major victory” for all of India’s security, counter-terrorism, prosecution, and intelligence agencies, underscoring the nation’s unrelenting stand against terror.
“This is not just an extradition; it’s the resolve of the new India that we will not remain silent on terror attacks but will give a befitting reply,” Poonawalla told reporters.
“India will neither forgive nor forget the terrorists. This marks a step towards justice not only for the Indian victims but also those who lost their lives in 17–18 countries affected by the 26/11 attacks.”
Tahawwur Rana, a Pakistani-Canadian national, is a close associate of David Coleman Headley, one of the masterminds of the 2008 attacks. He is being brought to India after years of legal proceedings in the United States, where he was previously convicted of aiding terrorist groups.
Meanwhile, Union Minister Piyush Goyal slammed the Congress party for what he described as inaction following the 2008 attacks, in which 166 people were killed.
“During Congress’ time, terrorists attacked the very hotel we’re standing in today, and nothing was done to punish them. Kasab was served biryani,” said Goyal, referencing the lone captured attacker Ajmal Kasab, whose treatment during trial became a contentious political issue.
Goyal lauded Prime Minister Narendra Modi for showing the willpower to ensure those who attack India face justice on Indian soil.
The Union Minister also took aim at the Shiv Sena (Uddhav Balasaheb Thackeray faction), accusing them of appeasement politics. Goyal alleged that their stance on national security and terror-related issues is influenced by communal considerations.
“Sanjay Raut will defend someone based on religion, even if they are involved in a serious crime. Uddhav Thackeray’s faction plays appeasement politics more than Congress, and the INDI alliance lacks any positive vision,” Goyal asserted.
“Just like PM Modi has brought down Naxalism, this government is committed to ensuring no terrorist goes unpunished.”
As Tahawwur Rana’s extradition nears execution, the Indian government has appointed Advocate Narender Mann as the Special Public Prosecutor to oversee his trial under the National Investigation Agency (NIA).
This move, BJP leaders say, signals not just a legal milestone but a reaffirmation of India’s firm stance on zero tolerance towards terrorism.