The NIA has opposed Mumbai attacks accused Tahawwur Rana’s request to speak with his family, fearing he might leak sensitive information. The agency told the court the case is at a “crucial stage.”
New Delhi, April 23 – The National Investigation Agency (NIA) has opposed the request of Tahawwur Hussain Rana, who is an accused in the 26/11 Mumbai terror attacks case, to speak to his family members.
The NIA told the court that allowing Rana to talk to his relatives could be risky because he might give away important details.
The Patiala House Court in Delhi has reserved its decision on a request made by Tahawwur Hussain Rana to talk to his family over the phone while he is in custody. The final order is expected to be announced tomorrow by Special Judge Chander Jit Singh. Since the charges fall under Sections 16 and 18 of the UAPA,
the court observed that,
“extended police custody beyond standard CrPC limitations may be permitted due to the terrorism-related nature of the case.”
Rana had approached the special NIA court, saying he wanted to talk to his family as they were worried about his health. But the NIA strongly objected to this. They said the case was at a very important stage right now, and letting Rana talk to his family could lead to him passing on crucial or secret information.
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The agency appeared before the special court in New Delhi on Wednesday and made its stand clear.
According to the NIA,
“he might share crucial information if allowed to talk to his family members.”
They added that,
the situation right now is very sensitive and any such contact could affect their ongoing investigation.
The NIA said that even though Rana’s family members are concerned about his well-being, security and national interest must come first. The agency reminded the court that Rana’s involvement in the 2008 Mumbai attacks is very serious, and his communication with anyone outside the jail must be carefully checked.
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The court is still looking into the matter, and a decision will be taken soon. Meanwhile, the NIA has made it clear that it does not want to take any chances.
They repeated in court that,
“the matter was at a crucial stage” and that is why they cannot allow Rana to make such calls at this time.
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This case is connected to the horrific 2008 Mumbai terror attacks, in which over 170 people lost their lives and hundreds were injured. The role of Tahawwur Rana in the attacks is being investigated thoroughly, and the NIA is trying to ensure that no step is taken that might weaken the case.
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