Former Union Minister P. Chidambaram states that the extradition of Mumbai attack accused Tahawwur Rana commenced during the Congress-led UPA government, with then-External Affairs Minister Salman Khurshid and Foreign Secretary Ranjan Mathai playing significant roles.
New Delhi: Former Union Minister P. Chidambaram lauded the Ministry of External Affairs for successfully bringing Tahawwur Rana, the mastermind behind the Mumbai attacks, to India. Chidambaram explained that the extradition process began during the UPA government's tenure. He credited then-External Affairs Minister Salman Khurshid and Foreign Secretary Ranjan Mathai for their crucial roles in this process.
UPA Government's Contribution to Rana's Extradition
Chidambaram stated that the extradition process for Tahawwur Rana, a key accused in the 26/11 Mumbai terrorist attacks, began in 2009 during the UPA government. He added that the process gained momentum after Rana's identification by US intelligence agencies in 2011.
Appreciation for the Modi Government's Success
Chidambaram commended the Modi government for completing this long and challenging diplomatic journey and successfully bringing Rana to India after 16 years. He stated, "I am certain that the Ministry of External Affairs and other officials of the Modi government made significant contributions to this effort."
Chidambaram's Remarks on the Extradition Process
Chidambaram explained that Rana's extradition is the result of the combined efforts of the Ministry of External Affairs, intelligence agencies, and the National Investigation Agency (NIA). He specifically highlighted the roles of Salman Khurshid and Ranjan Mathai. He also advised against taking BJP spokespersons' comments seriously, preferring to await an official statement from the Ministry of External Affairs or the Ministry of Home Affairs.
Tahawwur Rana in NIA Custody
Tahawwur Rana was brought to India from the United States on Thursday and is currently in the custody of the National Investigation Agency (NIA). The agency suspects Rana plotted attacks in other Indian cities as well. Interrogation of Rana may lead to investigations into various locations connected to the attacks.
