Mumbai Police question 26/11 terror attacks mastermind Tahawwur Rana in Delhi

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The officials on Saturday said that Mumbai Police Crime Branch officials questioned 26/11 Mumbai terror attacks mastermind Tahawwur Hussain Rana at the National Intelligence Agency (NIA) office in Delhi, reported news agency ANI.

According to Mumbai Police officials, 26/11 Mumbai terror attacks mastermind Tahawwur Rana was questioned for eight hours on Wednesday, during which he gave evasive answers and did not cooperate.

Tahawwur Hussain Rana, a Pakistani-Canadian accused of terrorism, is a former military doctor with an alleged history of involvement in terror-related activities. He was recently extradited from the United States of America to India.

Earlier, the Patiala House Court of Delhi dismissed a plea filed by Tahawwur Rana, seeking permission to speak with his family over the phone.

Special NIA Judge Chander Jit Singh on Thursday decided to dismiss his petition, reported ANI.

Rana's legal counsel, Piyush Sachdeva, had argued that as a foreign national, he has the fundamental right to communicate with his family, who are anxious about his treatment while in custody, reported ANI.

However, the NIA opposed the request, citing the ongoing investigation and expressing concerns that Rana might divulge sensitive information, reported ANI.

Rana faces multiple charges under the Indian Penal Code (IPC) and the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA), including conspiracy, terrorism, forgery, and waging war. The court noted that under extradition laws, he can only be prosecuted for offences explicitly sanctioned in the extradition agreement.

Furthermore, since Sections 16 and 18 of the UAPA apply, extended police custody beyond standard Criminal Procedure Code (CrPC) limitations may be permitted due to the terrorism-related nature of the case.

(With inputs from ANI)