Mumbai 26/11 terror attacks accused Tahawwur Rana was informed by his legal team that his trial in India could take at least 5 to 10 years, even under an expedited process. According to a Times of India report, his counsel explained that filing a chargesheet alone might require up to a year due to the complexity of the case.
The 64-year-old former Pakistani Army officer was extradited from the United States and landed in India on Thursday. Following his arrival, his legal team briefed him about his rights under Indian law.
Sources revealed that Rana asked whether he could “plead the Fifth,” referring to the US Constitution’s Fifth Amendment, which protects against self-incrimination. His lawyers clarified that Indian law does not follow the same provision, although similar protections do exist.
Concern Over Trial Timeline
According to the report, a flicker of concern crossed Rana’s face when he learned that his trial could not be concluded within a year. His lawyers—Lakshya Dheer and Piyush Sachdeva—were present with him at the NIA court, where Special Judge Chander Jit Singh presided over his remand hearing.
Remanded to NIA Custody for 18 Days
The court remanded Rana to the custody of the National Investigation Agency (NIA) for 18 days. It also directed that he be allowed to consult with his lawyers every alternate day. However, any legal assistance must take place under the NIA’s supervision.
During the hearing, Rana asserted his innocence and questioned the need for extradition, arguing that he had already served a decade in prison before being acquitted by a US district court.
Second Person to Face Trial in India for 26/11 Attacks
Rana’s extradition followed the rejection of his final appeal by the US Supreme Court. He is accused of collaborating with David Coleman Headley in orchestrating the 2008 Mumbai terror attacks that left 166 people dead.
Rana will be the second individual to face trial in India for the attacks. He was initially arrested by US authorities on October 18, 2009, just two weeks after Headley’s detention.
As the case proceeds, legal experts anticipate a lengthy judicial process given the high-profile nature and international implications of the case.
