Ujjwal Nikam Claims Rana’s Interrogation Will Reveal ISI-Lashkar Connections in Mumbai Assault
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Synopsis
Ujjwal Nikam has praised the US Supreme Court's ruling to extradite Tahawwur Rana, asserting that interrogation may reveal critical ISI-Lashkar links related to the Mumbai attacks. Political reactions highlight the significance of this development in addressing global terrorism.
Key Takeaways
- Tahawwur Rana extradition is a significant victory for India.
- His interrogation could expose the Pakistan Army's role in the 26/11 attack.
- Past interrogations revealed ties between ISI and Lashkar-e-Taiba.
- Political leaders voice differing views on justice for other culprits.
- Rana's extradition marks a pivotal moment in combating terrorism.
Mumbai, Jan 25 (NationPress) Prominent Special Public Prosecutor for the 2008 Mumbai terrorist incidents, Ujjwal Nikam, has praised the US Supreme Court's ruling to extradite Tahawwur Rana, an alleged player in the 26/11 terror assaults, to India.
"This marks a significant victory for the Indian administration," Nikam remarked while addressing reporters on Saturday.
He clarified that Rana’s plea to the US Supreme Court, which contested extradition due to his sentencing in a Chicago court, was resolutely turned down.
"The U.S. administration opposed his motion, stressing the necessity for him to undergo trial in India. The US Supreme Court's ruling clears the way for his extradition," Nikam elaborated.
Discussing the possible implications of Rana's interrogation, Nikam stated, "This is a crucial advancement. His questioning could uncover new aspects of the Pakistan Army's engagement in the 26/11 terrorist attack."
Recalling his prior interrogation of David Coleman Headley, a significant conspirator in the Mumbai attack case, Nikam remarked, "Headley disclosed the profound collusion between Pakistan's Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) and Lashkar-e-Taiba. In a similar vein, Rana's testimony could yield vital insights into the ISI-Lashkar connection."
Notable political figures have also weighed in on the situation. Maharashtra BJP MLA Ram Kadam attributed the extradition to Prime Minister Modi's adept foreign diplomacy.
He stated, “The pathway has been cleared to bring Tahawwur Hussain Rana to India. This is a significant victory for the nation. His interrogation will once again highlight Pakistan's notorious involvement in global terrorism.”
Sanjay Raut of Shiv Sena (UBT), however, questioned when other perpetrators would face justice.
“This is a standard judicial process. While it is praiseworthy, we must also address the larger issue. When will others like Nirav Modi, Dawood Ibrahim, and Tiger Memon be brought to justice? These issues cannot be ignored.”
NCP (SP) leader Fahad Ahmad commented, "Though it is better late than never, we must concentrate on extracting as much intelligence as possible from the accused. However, this should be a non-partisan endeavor, devoid of attempts to seek political acclaim or present oneself as a hero. An inquiry into the delays in this case is essential to ensure similar incidents do not happen again in the future."
Previously, the US Supreme Court authorized Tahawwur Rana's extradition to India, dismissing his review petition against the move, interpreted as a consequence of President Trump taking office.
Rana, a Canadian citizen of Pakistani descent, is sought in connection with the 2008 Mumbai terrorist strikes. This was Rana's final legal opportunity to avoid extradition to India.
Rana submitted a "petition for a writ of certiorari" to the US Supreme Court on November 13, which was denied by the court a day after Donald Trump was inaugurated as the American President.
Rana, 64, is currently held at the Metropolitan Detention Centre in Los Angeles.
