New Delhi, India: The approval of Tahawwur Rana’s extradition to India by US President Donald Trump has been hailed as a strong message to those threatening US-India relations and Indian interests, according to former Indian Ambassador to the US Taranjit Singh Sandhu.
Speaking in an interview, Sandhu—who is also a BJP leader—stated that the decision reflects a decisive stance against elements jeopardizing security and diplomatic relations between the two nations.
“It was in the works and it also sends a clear message, as US President Trump has himself said in the press conference that there are other names under consideration. So people indulging in such activities need to watch out,” Sandhu said.
Tougher Stance on Anti-India Elements
When asked about potential US action against Khalistani separatists, Sandhu pointed to the joint statement issued after PM Narendra Modi and President Trump’s talks, which highlights a commitment to tackling various security threats.
“The joint statement speaks about unruly elements and different kinds of threats. It is expected that stronger and stricter action will be taken against them,” he added.
The statement affirmed both nations’ commitment to strengthening law enforcement cooperation and taking decisive action against illegal immigration networks, organized crime syndicates, narco-terrorists, human and arms traffickers, and other threats to public and diplomatic safety.
Trump’s Official Announcement on Rana’s Extradition
During a joint press conference with PM Modi, President Trump confirmed the extradition of Tahawwur Rana, stating:
“I am pleased to announce that my administration has approved the extradition of one of the plotters (Tahawwur Rana) and one of the very evil people of the world, having to do with the horrific 2008 Mumbai terrorist attack, to face justice in India. He is going back to India to face justice.”
US State Department’s Support for India’s Case
The US State Department had previously affirmed its support for India’s efforts to bring the perpetrators of the 2008 Mumbai attacks to justice. Following a US Supreme Court ruling rejecting Rana’s appeal, US authorities are now coordinating with India to finalize the logistics of his transfer.
Indian Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri confirmed last week:
“He has exhausted all legal avenues in the United States, including the US Supreme Court dismissing his appeal. We are now in touch with US authorities to work on the logistics of his surrender to Indian authorities.”
Tahawwur Rana’s Role in the 26/11 Mumbai Attacks
Pakistani-origin businessman Tahawwur Hussain Rana was convicted for his involvement in planning the 2008 Mumbai terror attacks, which claimed 174 lives, including 20 security personnel and 26 foreign nationals, and injured over 300 people.
His co-conspirators included David Headley, who had pleaded guilty and cooperated with US authorities in the case against Rana.
On January 21, 2025, the US Supreme Court denied Rana’s petition for a writ of certiorari, which was his final legal attempt to prevent extradition.
With legal hurdles cleared, India is now set to receive one of the key figures involved in the deadly attacks, marking a significant step in seeking justice for the victims of 26/11.