Chidambaram says UPA laid groundwork for Rana extradition, criticises Modi govt for taking credit

Senior Congress leader P Chidambaram on Thursday criticised the Modi government for claiming credit for the extradition of Tahawwur Hussain Rana, a key accused in the 26/11 Mumbai attacks.

Chidambaram claimed that the extradition was the outcome of sustained diplomatic efforts initiated during the United Progressive Alliance (UPA) era.

"In February 2025, Prime Minister Modi and President Trump stood at a press conference and tried to take credit for what was essentially the result of years of UPA-era groundwork. By February 17, Indian officials confirmed Rana's role in the 26/11 conspiracy, dating back to 2005, when he coordinated with LeT and ISI operatives. Finally, on April 8, 2025, US authorities handed over Rana to Indian officials. He arrived in New Delhi on April 10," Chidambaram said in a statement.

Emphasising his tenure as Union Home Minister during the UPA government (2008–2012), Chidambaram stated that the foundation for Rana’s extradition had been laid long before the current administration took over.

"Let the facts be clear: the Modi government did not initiate this process, nor did it secure any new breakthrough. It merely benefited from the mature, consistent, and strategic diplomacy begun under the UPA. This extradition is not the result of any grandstanding, it is a testament to what the Indian state can achieve when diplomacy, law enforcement, and international cooperation are pursued sincerely and without any kind of chest-thumping," he added.

Tahawwur Rana, a Pakistani-Canadian national, was convicted in the United States for aiding the banned terrorist outfit Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) and providing support for the 2008 Mumbai attacks, which killed over 174 people.

The US Secretary of State had signed his extradition warrant on February 11, 2025. Although Rana’s legal team sought an emergency stay, the US Supreme Court rejected the plea on April 7, clearing the way for his extradition.