While addressing the media, Trivedi also took the opportunity to criticize opposition parties, especially the ruling AAP in Delhi. He accused AAP of being linked to organizations that, in his view, were supporting terror suspects.
In a recent press conference on January 26, 2025, Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) Member of Parliament (MP) Sudhanshu Trivedi made sharp comments ahead of the Delhi Assembly Elections, targeting the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) and its leadership. He also expressed pride in the U.S. Supreme Court’s decision to return Tahwwar Rana, an accused in the 2008 Mumbai terror attacks, to India.
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Trivedi, while discussing the importance of the ruling, stated, “We can say that from both the perspectives of security and prestige of India, the decision of the Supreme Court of America on returning Tahwwar Rana to India, is a matter of pride for all of us Indians.”
He continued, adding, “Certainly, this decision is a matter of relief for all Indians and especially the families of victims of the attack.” Trivedi credited the Modi government for the successful diplomatic efforts that led to the ruling, emphasizing that the government’s strong stance against terrorism played a crucial role in this achievement.
“It has been made possible because of the Modi government’s stern resolve to fight terrorism, and also the diplomatic will to bring India out of complex international situations,” he said.
While addressing the media, Trivedi also took the opportunity to criticize opposition parties, especially the ruling AAP in Delhi. He accused AAP of being linked to organizations that, in his view, were supporting terror suspects.
“Today even during this election in Delhi, I have mentioned about our two main opposition parties, the ruling party Aam Aadmi Party and the Congress,” he said.
Trivedi’s accusations were particularly directed at AAP, with an emphasis on the involvement of certain non-governmental organizations (NGOs) allegedly working to help terrorism suspects.
“There are many such organisations associated with Aam Aadmi Party, many such NGOs which are trying to find ways to save the accused of terrorism,” the BJP leader remarked.
In a direct attack on AAP Chief Minister Atishi, Trivedi highlighted her family’s involvement in a mercy petition for Afzal Guru, a man convicted for his role in the 2001 Indian Parliament attack.
“AAP CM Atishi’s family members signed a mercy petition to save Afzal Guru an accused of terrorism,” he stated.
The BJP MP contrasted the AAP’s approach with that of his own party, emphasizing the BJP’s firm stance on terrorism.
“This is the character of Aam Aadmi Party, and the resolution of BJP under the leadership of Modi ji is that no terrorist will be given a way to escape,” Trivedi concluded, reinforcing the BJP’s commitment to national security and the fight against terrorism.
Trivedi also took a moment to congratulate the citizens of India on the 75th Republic Day, highlighting the country’s progress and unity.
Tahawwur Rana Case :
Tahawwur Rana, convicted for his involvement in the 2008 Mumbai terrorist attacks, is facing a final legal battle to avoid being extradited to India. His attorney has urged the United States Supreme Court to review the decision made by lower courts, citing the principle of double jeopardy. This principle prevents a person from being tried or punished twice for the same offence, which Rana claims applies in his case.
India has been seeking Rana’s extradition since he is wanted for his role in the deadly Mumbai attacks. Rana, a Canadian citizen of Pakistani descent, has already faced legal setbacks in multiple courts, including the US Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit in San Francisco.
Despite these losses, he filed a “petition for a writ of certiorari” to the US Supreme Court on November 13, asking it to reconsider the lower court’s decision and prevent his extradition to India.
On December 16, US Solicitor General Elizabeth B. Prelogar recommended that the Supreme Court reject Rana’s petition, but Rana’s lawyer, Joshua L. Dratel, responded on December 23, challenging this recommendation. Dratel argued that the Supreme Court should review the case, as this would be Rana’s last chance to avoid extradition.
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The 2008 Mumbai terrorist attacks, carried out by 10 Pakistani militants, resulted in 166 deaths, including six Americans. The attackers laid siege to iconic locations across Mumbai, holding the city hostage for more than 60 hours. The attacks shocked the world and left a lasting impact on India and global security.
As the US Supreme Court prepares to hear both sides of the case on January 17, the outcome will determine whether Rana will be extradited to India to face trial for his involvement in one of the deadliest terrorist attacks in recent history.
