‘Modi's Achievement, UPA's Inaction’: BJP Claims Victory in Tahawwur Rana's Extradition; Congress Responds

New Delhi, April 10 (NationPress) In a major milestone in India’s enduring quest for justice regarding the 26/11 Mumbai terror attacks, Tahawwur Hussain Rana, a principal accused and collaborator of David Coleman Headley, was extradited from the United States and arrived here on Thursday.

This event has sparked a heated political exchange, with the ruling BJP referring to it as a historic diplomatic achievement under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, while the Congress party contended that this was the result of efforts initiated during the UPA administration.

Rana, a 64-year-old Canadian-American of Pakistani descent, was apprehended by the FBI in 2009 for planning attacks, including one in Copenhagen, and was convicted in the US for his involvement in terrorism-related plots. However, his extradition to India, specifically for his alleged role in the 2008 Mumbai attacks that resulted in the deaths of 166 individuals, represents a pivotal moment in India’s global anti-terrorism endeavors.

Praising the extradition, BJP officials commended PM Modi and the nation's security agencies for what they termed a steadfast and resolute approach to combatting terrorism.

At a press conference, BJP national spokesperson Shehzad Poonawalla stated: "Today, our security agency, anti-terror agency, and intelligence agency have achieved great success. The conspirator of the 26/11 terror attack, Tahawwur Rana, is being brought to India today.”

He continued: "This is not a mere extradition; it symbolizes the determination of the new India… Today, as Tahawwur Rana is being returned to India, it serves as a warning to every terrorist and conspirator that no matter where you attempt to hide, India will track you down and deliver justice.”

While addressing reporters in Mumbai, Union Minister and BJP leader Piyush Goyal remarked that the Congress failed to take action against terrorists, asserting that the extradition was feasible due to Prime Minister Narendra Modi's “foremost and paramount commitment” to India’s national security and interests.

He stated: "During the Congress administration, terrorists attacked this very hotel (Taj Palace) where we are present. Lives were lost here. But the Congress did nothing to hold the terrorists accountable… It was PM Narendra Modi's resolve to ensure that those who harm our nation are duly punished…” He accused the former government of showing undue leniency towards terrorist Ajmal Kasab - claiming they “fed him biryani”.

In comments to IANS, BJP MP Manoj Tiwari also praised the extradition, declaring: “India is fortunate to have a Prime Minister like Narendra Modi, who has guided the country with a constructive agenda… This marks a significant triumph for the Modi administration. The entire nation is thankful to PM Modi and his government.”

While acknowledging the extradition, Congress leaders quickly reminded the government that the diplomatic and legal processes began during their tenure.

Former Union Home Minister P. Chidambaram stated: “I am pleased that Tahawwur Hussain Rana has been extradited to India. However, it is vital to present the complete narrative.

"This extradition is the product of over a decade of diligent and strategic diplomacy that was initiated, guided, and maintained by the UPA administration in collaboration with the US.”

Congress leader Kanhaiya Kumar adopted a more critical tone, labeling the government's celebration of Rana’s extradition as a tactic to distract from more pressing issues.

“Since the BJP lacks any notable achievements, they attempt to divert public attention with various pretexts,” he asserted while campaigning in Bihar.