NIA gets 18-day custody of 26/11 mastermind Tahawwur Rana

A special National Investigation Agency (NIA) court in Delhi on Friday remanded Tahawwur Rana to 18 days of custody following his extradition from the United States. Rana, a key accused in the 2008 Mumbai terror attacks, was brought to India via a special flight that landed at Palam Technical Airport around 6:30 PM on Thursday.

The NIA arrested Rana shortly after his arrival, marking a significant step forward in India’s long-standing efforts to bring all 26/11 perpetrators to justice. A statement from the agency said, "The NIA investigation team at the airport arrested Rana, a Canadian national of Pakistani origin living primarily in Chicago, soon after he emerged from the airplane, after completing all necessary legal formalities."

Rana’s extradition follows a prolonged legal battle in US courts, where Indian authorities had submitted extensive evidence linking him to the Mumbai attacks that killed 166 people and injured hundreds. The extradition has been viewed as a diplomatic victory and a critical development in India’s global campaign against terrorism.

Late Thursday night, Rana was presented before a special NIA judge at Patiala House Court. The NIA sought 20 days’ custody, citing "clinching digital evidence, including emails and communications," that require detailed interrogation.

The court, after hearing the arguments, approved 18-day custody, giving the agency time to question Rana on his alleged collusion with Lashkar-e-Taiba operatives, including David Headley, his close associate and co-accused in the 26/11 conspiracy.

Security was tight outside the Patiala House Court, with Delhi Police and paramilitary forces deployed in large numbers. A detailed security review was conducted to ensure there were no disruptions during Rana's transit and court production.