NIA grilling Rana to unravel conspiracy behind 26/11 Mumbai attacks

NEW DELHI: The Interrogation of Tahawwur Rana, a key conspirator in the 26/11 Mumbai terror attacks, continues as Indian authorities seek to uncover the full scope of his involvement. Rana, who was extradited from the United States on Thursday, is being held in a high-security cell at the National Investigation Agency (NIA) headquarters for questioning. The NIA headquarters, located in the CGO Complex, and its surrounding area have been placed under tight security.

The first round of interrogation began yesterday at 11 a.m. The initial questioning focused on Rana’s role in planning the 26/11 Mumbai terror attacks, and his connections with the terrorist organization Lashkar-e-Taiba and Pakistan’s intelligence agency ISI. The interrogation also includes a comprehensive set of questions designed to shed light on Rana’s personal history, ties in Pakistan, and sources of financial support.

In the early hours of the previous day, a special NIA bench of the Patiala House Court, presided over by Judge Chander Jeet Singh, granted the NIA 18 days of custody for Rana. Piyush Sachdeva, an advocate appointed via the Delhi Legal Services Authority, represented Rana in court. Eight intelligence and investigation agencies have reportedly sought permission to question him.

Only 12 officials allowed to enter Rana's cell

• Tahawwur Rana is housed in a highly secure cell on the ground floor of the NIA headquarters. The cell is 14x14 feet in size, roughly the size of a large bedroom, and is under constant CCTV surveillance. Multi-layered digital security measures are in place. Delhi Police and paramilitary forces provide additional security around the premises.
• A team of 12 NIA officials, including officers of Superintendent and Deputy Superintendent rank, are interrogating Rana under the leadership of Jharkhand cadre IPS officer Jaya Roy, who played a crucial role in Rana’s extradition from the US. Only these 12 officials are allowed access to the cell. The interrogation is recorded on two video cameras, and daily reports are submitted to the Ministry of Home Affairs.
• The cell is equipped with all basic facilities, including a bed, bathroom, and food arrangements, eliminating the need to move Rana outside. Due to his health conditions—such as asthma, Parkinson’s disease, heart problems, and bladder cancer—he will not be subjected to continuous questioning. Medical check-ups will be conducted every 48 hours.