The Patiala House Court on Monday permitted 26/11 accused Tahawwur Rana to place a single phone call to his family, subject to strict jail guidelines and supervision.
Judge Chander Jit Singh of the National Investigation Agency court emphasized that the call must adhere to prison rules and be overseen by a senior Tihar Jail official.
One-Time Phone Call Granted
In its order, the court clarified that “the call will be strictly conducted in accordance with jail regulations and under the supervision of a senior official from the Tihar jail authorities.” This approval follows an NIA request, in which the agency endorsed a one-off telephonic communication for Rana, who faces charges in connection with the 2008 Mumbai terror attacks.
Health Status Report Ordered
Alongside authorizing the call, Judge Singh directed jail authorities to submit a detailed status report on Rana’s medical condition within the next ten days. This request arises after Rana, a 64-year-old Canadian businessman of Pakistani origin, mentioned an ear-related ailment during his last court appearance, seeking a hearing aid to address hearing difficulties.
On Friday, the court extended Rana’s judicial custody, scheduling his subsequent hearing for July 9, 2025. Owing to heightened security measures, Rana appeared via video link at the latest hearing, although he had briefly addressed the bench in person to highlight his medical needs.
Cooperation With NIA Investigations
Rana was extradited from the United States earlier this month to face allegations of involvement in the Lashkar–e–Taiba–orchestrated Mumbai attacks that claimed over 170 lives and injured hundreds more. The NIA has informed the court of “substantial evidence” linking him to the planning and execution of these assaults, and has argued for continued custody, citing what it described as Rana’s evasive behaviour during questioning and lack of cooperation.
Recently, the agency collected Rana’s voice and handwriting samples, a procedural step aimed at corroborating communications evidence. Advocate Piyush Sachdev, acting for Rana, confirmed his client’s full compliance with the court’s directives regarding these tests.
Legal Representation
Senior Advocate Dayan Krishnan, along with Special Public Prosecutor Narender Mann, appeared for the NIA, urging the court to maintain Rana’s detention to facilitate ongoing investigations. Rana’s defence was led by Advocate Piyush Sachdev, who had petitioned for the one-time call and highlighted his client’s health concerns.
Future Phone Call Permissions
The court also sought clarity on whether Rana should be allowed regular telephone access under the provisions of the Jail Manual. Authorities have been asked to outline their position on granting future calls, ensuring any decision aligns with both institutional guidelines and the judicial process.
As the case progresses, the Patiala House Court’s orders aim to balance the defendant’s rights, such as medical treatment and family contact, with the imperatives of national security and a thorough investigation. The next status update on Rana’s health and communications permissions is expected in ten days, setting the stage for further hearings in July.
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