A Delhi court on Friday asked the National Investigation Agency to file a detailed response to a request made by Tahawur Rana, the accused in the 2008 Mumbai terror attacks, seeking regular phone calls with his family.
The matter is now scheduled for hearing on August 1.
Rana Allowed Only One Phone Call So Far
Rana, who is currently in judicial custody following his extradition from the United States in April 2025, has only been allowed a single phone call with his family, which took place on June 9. The call was made under strict monitoring by senior Tihar Jail officials in accordance with jail rules.
Rana has now filed a fresh application, requesting regular access to telephonic conversations with his family. During Friday’s hearing, Additional Sessions Judge Chander Jit Singh heard oral submissions and directed the NIA to provide a comprehensive reply before the next hearing.
Court Grants Bed To Rana After Medical Plea
In a related development, Tihar Jail authorities informed the court that Rana has been provided a bed, following a prior court order. This came after Rana moved the court seeking a bed and mattress, citing medical concerns.
Initially, the jail administration opposed the plea, arguing that only inmates aged 65 or older are entitled to such facilities as per prison rules. Rana, who is 64 years and 6 months old, claimed to suffer from health issues that necessitate better sleeping arrangements. After reviewing his condition, the court allowed his request.
The NIA also confirmed to the court that it had submitted Rana’s full medical history to the jail authorities.
NIA Files Supplementary Charge Sheet
Earlier this month, on July 9, the NIA filed a supplementary charge sheet against Rana in the Mumbai terror attacks case. His counsel, Advocate Piyush Sachdev, told ANI that the new filing includes documentation such as the arrest memo and seizure records. The original charge sheet was filed in December 2011.
Rana’s judicial custody has since been extended until August 13.
NIA Collects Voice, Handwriting Samples
The NIA recently collected voice and handwriting samples from Rana as part of its ongoing investigation. The agency also informed the court that Rana had been presented with significant evidence linking him to the 26/11 Mumbai attacks but was reportedly evasive and non-cooperative during interrogation.
Representing the NIA in court were Senior Advocate Dayan Krishnan and Special Public Prosecutor Narender Mann, while Advocate Piyush Sachdev appeared for Rana.
Rana, a Canadian businessman of Pakistani origin, was extradited after prolonged legal proceedings for his alleged role in aiding the Lashkar-e-Taiba in planning the deadly 2008 attacks that killed over 170 people and injured hundreds.
The court is expected to decide on his plea for regular communication with his family after reviewing the NIA’s response on August 1.
Read More: Supreme Court, Delhi High Court, States High Court, International
