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After a long flight, a flight with 26/11 Mumbai terror attack accused Tahawwur Rana on board lands in Delhi. As the Indian team’s plane reaches Delhi, security in the national capital and outside Delhi’s Patiala House Court has been stepped up. The special plane was closely monitored from the moment it entered Indian airspace.
After years of legal procedures and a long journey from the United States, Tahawwur Rana — a key accused in the 2008 Mumbai terror attacks — has finally landed in Delhi. His arrival has set off a wave of high-level security operations across the national capital.
Massive Security Blanket in the Capital
Delhi Police and the National Investigation Agency (NIA) are not taking any chances with Rana’s arrival. From a bulletproof car to a marksman vehicle kept on standby, the preparations resemble the kind made for high-risk detainees.
Rana, who is 64 years old, will be produced before a Delhi court. Authorities are expected to ask for his custody so they can begin a detailed investigation. Until then, he is being held under a strict security cordon.
He will remain in the custody of Delhi Police’s Special Cell, guarded by elite SWAT commandos throughout his movement.
Pakistan Speaks Out on Rana’s Extradition
Following Rana’s extradition to India, Pakistan officially responded for the first time. The country’s Foreign Office distanced itself from the issue, saying, “Tahawwur Rana has not renewed his Pakistani documents for over 2 decades. His Canadian nationality is very clear,”
This statement was given by a spokesperson from Pakistan’s Foreign Office after being asked about Rana’s background and nationality. The response indicates that Pakistan is keen to show that it does not consider Rana its legal citizen anymore.
Inside the NIA Headquarters: Tight Access, Top Officers Only
India’s top anti-terror agency, the NIA, has gone into overdrive ahead of Rana’s questioning. A special investigation cell has been created just for him inside the NIA headquarters in Delhi. It is located on the ground floor, where Rana will be kept under watch.
His medical examination will also happen inside the same secure space, to avoid any unnecessary movement or risks.
Meanwhile, the investigation room where questioning will take place has been set up on the third floor. Access to this room has been limited to just 12 officials who are directly involved in the case.
Who’s on the Investigation Team?
Only a select group of senior officers have been given access to the secured rooms. This includes some of the top brass at the NIA:
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DG Sadanand Date
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IG Ashish Batra
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DIG Jaya Roy
In total, the investigation team consists of four officers: two Inspector Generals (IG), one Additional Director General (ADG), and one Superintendent of Police (SP). These officers will be leading the questioning over the next few days.
A separate meeting of senior officials is also underway inside the NIA building to decide whether Rana should be presented physically in court or through video conferencing.
What’s Next for Rana?
For now, Tahawwur Rana remains in NIA custody. His remand will be formally sought in court, and the investigation team will begin questioning him about his alleged role in the 26/11 Mumbai terror attacks — as well as other global plots he’s linked to.
The case has drawn attention from across the world, and Indian authorities say this moment marks a big step forward in holding every key conspirator accountable.
