2008 Mumbai Attack Accused Tahawwur Rana Petitions US Supreme Court to Block Extradition

Washington, D.C.: Tahawwur Rana, a key accused in the 2008 Mumbai terrorist attacks that left more than 170 people dead, has filed a fresh petition with US Supreme Court Chief Justice John Roberts in an attempt to prevent his extradition to India. His latest legal move follows the rejection of his review petition earlier this month by Justice Elena Kagan.
According to the US Supreme Court's website, Rana’s application will be reviewed by Supreme Court judges during a conference scheduled for April 4, 2025. The Pakistani-Canadian businessman, who is currently in US custody, has submitted an emergency request for a stay on his transfer to India. His appeal specifically asks for reconsideration of the extradition process, arguing that he should not be handed over to Indian authorities while his legal challenges are still pending.
"Petitioner Tahawwur Rana has renewed his Emergency Application for Stay Pending Litigation of Petition for Writ of Habeas Corpus previously addressed to Justice Kagan and requests that the renewed application be directed to Chief Justice Roberts," his appeal states, as per the Supreme Court’s official website.
Rana has been fighting extradition since the Indian government formally requested his transfer in connection with his alleged role in facilitating the deadly 2008 attacks carried out by Pakistan-based Lashkar-e-Taiba operatives. He is accused of providing support to the attackers through his immigration services business in Chicago, which was allegedly used as a cover for reconnaissance efforts in Mumbai.
The US government had earlier cleared the path for his extradition after a California court ruled in favor of India’s request. However, Rana has continued to challenge the decision, citing legal and procedural grounds to avoid being sent to India, where he could face trial under anti-terror laws.
The outcome of the Supreme Court's review on April 4 will be critical in determining whether Rana’s extradition moves forward or if he will be granted temporary relief from transfer. Meanwhile, Indian authorities remain hopeful that he will be brought to justice for his alleged involvement in one of the deadliest terror attacks in the country's history.
With legal proceedings ongoing, the case has drawn significant attention, particularly in diplomatic and security circles. If the Supreme Court refuses his petition, Rana’s extradition could proceed swiftly, marking a significant step in India’s pursuit of justice for the victims of the 2008 attacks.