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Tahawwur Rana: ‘Many Didn't Want Him to Return’ Top Leaders to Security Experts, Here's What They Say on Extradition

Tahawwur Rana’s extradition to India sparks nationwide reactions. From political leaders to security experts, many voice concerns, support, and expectations surrounding his return and possible trial in connection with the 26/11 Mumbai attacks.

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Tahawwur Rana: After years of legal battles, diplomatic pressure, and persistent pursuit, Tahawwur Hussain Rana—the man accused of playing a key role in the 26/11 Mumbai terror attacks—has finally been extradited to India. His arrival in New Delhi was marked by tight security and a sense of justice long delayed. The National Investigation Agency (NIA) confirmed that he was arrested immediately after landing at the IGI Airport, having been escorted from Los Angeles on a special flight.

His extradition is being hailed as a major diplomatic and legal victory. Politicians across party lines, defence experts, and counter-terrorism professionals are weighing in on the significance of this moment. Here's what top leaders and experts are saying about the return of Tahawwur Rana to Indian soil.

Amit Malviya: Tahawwur Rana’s Extradition Exposes UPA’s Failure Post 26/11, Says BJP Leader

BJP IT cell head Amit Malviya shared a powerful statement on social media just hours before Tahawwur Rana’s flight landed. “As the plane carrying Tahawwur Hussain Rana is all set to touch down in New Delhi, we are on the brink of revisiting critical truths about one of the darkest and bloodiest chapters in our nation’s history—the 26/11 Mumbai terror attacks,” he wrote.

Malviya emphasised that this was not just an attack on Mumbai but on the spirit of India itself. He reminded the nation of the lives lost, including brave officers like Hemant Karkare and Tukaram Omble, and criticised the lack of decisive justice in the aftermath.

Sushilkumar Shinde: Extradition of Tahawwur Rana Shows Bipartisan Effort, Let’s Not Politicise It

Congress leader and former Home Minister Sushilkumar Shinde acknowledged the role of both the Congress and BJP governments in working to bring Tahawwur Rana back.

He said, “Now, we are successful in bringing him back. The NIA will dig deep into the investigation and uncover the truth.” Shinde called for unity and focus, rather than political blame games, saying, “This Government has done a good thing. We compliment them.”

Shehzad Poonawalla: Tahawwur Rana’s Extradition Proves New India Doesn’t Forgive Terrorists

BJP spokesperson Shehzad Poonawalla described the extradition of Tahawwur Rana as more than a legal step—it is symbolic of India’s growing strength in counter-terrorism efforts.

“This is the resolve of the new India,” he said. “India will neither forgive nor forget the terrorists. This is justice not just for Indian victims, but also for victims in 17-18 other countries.”

Pramod Tiwari: Modi Took 11 Years to Bring Tahawwur Rana Back, Should Apologise to the Nation

Congress leader Pramod Tiwari expressed a different tone. While acknowledging the success of the extradition, he also criticised the delay, saying, “It took 11 years for PM Modi to make his extradition possible. He should apologise to the country.”

Tiwari also alleged that the BJP has a weak record against terrorism, in contrast to Congress leaders who laid down their lives for the nation.

Dimple Yadav: Strict Action Must Follow Tahawwur Rana’s Return, But No Room for Politics

Samajwadi Party MP Dimple Yadav welcomed the move, expressing hope that “strictest action” would follow.

However, she also urged political parties not to use this moment for scoring points. “This is a matter related to the country. It will be better if we don’t play politics over it,” she said.

Eknath Shinde: Tahawwur Rana Finally in India, Credit to PM Modi and Jaishankar

Maharashtra’s Deputy CM Eknath Shinde took to social media to thank Prime Minister Narendra Modi and External Affairs Minister Dr S. Jaishankar. 

He highlighted that the extradition came after direct discussions between PM Modi and US President Donald Trump. “Tahawwur Rana, the mastermind of 26/11, is finally in India. There is no doubt he will receive the punishment he deserves,” Shinde said.

Maj Gen Katoch: Rana’s Extradition a Tough but Big Win

Retired Major General Dhruv Katoch praised the government’s political will and coordination.

He highlighted the complexities involved, given Rana’s Pakistani origin, Canadian citizenship, and the international legal hurdles. “There were many forces abroad who did not want this to happen. Bringing him back is no small feat,” he said.

NSG Hero Manesh: Fought 26/11, Proud Rana Is Back

Former NSG commando and Shaurya Chakra awardee PV Manesh, who was injured during the 26/11 operations, said he was proud of the developments.

“I killed two terrorists at the Oberoi Hotel. I was injured in a grenade attack. One splinter is still inside my head. But I don’t feel bad—I’m proud,” he said. “Rana is being brought back, and justice will follow.”

Sushant Sareen: Extradition of Tahawwur Rana a Legal Victory

Foreign policy expert Sushant Sareen described the extradition as a “victory of law and diplomacy.”

He credited the government for demonstrating strong commitment to ensuring that no accused in a terror case can escape justice. “We will never forget or spare the accused,” he stated firmly.

The Long Legal Battle to Bring Tahawwur Rana Back

Tahawwur Rana’s extradition was not easy. He fought multiple court cases in the US, including in the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals and the US Supreme Court. Despite several petitions and appeals, the courts ultimately ruled in favour of extraditing him under the India-US Extradition Treaty.

His return was made possible with support from the US Department of Justice, FBI, US Marshals, and several other international agencies. In India, the Ministry of External Affairs and Ministry of Home Affairs worked closely with the NIA to ensure every legal and diplomatic channel was utilised.

Tahawwur Rana’s Role in 26/11

According to the NIA, Tahawwur Rana conspired with David Coleman Headley and Pakistan-based terror outfits—Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) and Harkat-ul-Jihadi Islami (HUJI)—to plan and execute the 2008 Mumbai attacks. The attacks left 166 dead and over 230 injured. Both LeT and HUJI are banned in India under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act.

Tahawwur Rana Amit Malviya congress