Tahawwur Rana, accused in the 2008 Mumbai terror attacks, has filed an urgent request with US Supreme Court Chief Justice John Roberts to prevent his extradition to India. This move comes after Justice Elena Kagan rejected his plea earlier this month.
According to details published on the US Supreme Court website, Rana’s renewed application for an emergency stay has been scheduled for review at a judicial conference on April 4, 2025. His plea states that if extradited, he may not survive long enough to stand trial in India.
The appeal highlights concerns over potential mistreatment in Indian custody, citing his Pakistani origin, former military background, and chronic health issues as reasons for fearing torture. Rana further claimed that his medical condition—an abdominal aortic aneurysm, Parkinson’s disease, and possible bladder cancer—puts him at imminent risk of death if sent to India.
In his petition, Rana asserted that his religion and nationality could make him a target in Indian custody, warning that his extradition could be a “death sentence” due to the conditions he might face.
“If a stay is not granted, the US courts will lose jurisdiction, and I may not live long enough to have my case reviewed,” his appeal stated.
Rana’s extradition has been a long-standing diplomatic issue between India and the United States. A Pakistani-origin businessman and former doctor, Rana is an associate of David Coleman Headley, one of the key conspirators behind the 26/11 Mumbai attacks carried out by Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT).
India has accused Rana of playing a crucial role in facilitating the attacks and has been seeking his extradition for trial.
In February 2025, US President Donald Trump confirmed Rana’s extradition, stating that he would face justice in India. The announcement was made during a joint press conference with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi following their bilateral discussions.
With his legal options running out, Rana’s last hope now rests on the US Supreme Court. If Chief Justice Roberts denies his appeal, his extradition to India could proceed immediately. However, if the court grants a stay, it could further delay the process, prolonging the legal and diplomatic standoff between Washington and New Delhi.
