Delhi Court Allows Tahawwur Rana One-Time Family Call Amid Ongoing Custody

Court Grants Phone Call to 26/11 Accused

The Patiala House Court in Delhi has authorized a one-time phone call for Tahawwur Rana, who is accused in the 26/11 Mumbai terror attacks, allowing him to contact his family. This call will take place under strict supervision and in compliance with the regulations of Tihar Jail. The court has also requested a comprehensive health status report on Rana, which is to be submitted within ten days.

In response to the jail authorities, the National Investigation Agency (NIA) has given its approval for this single phone call.

Additionally, the court has asked for a detailed report from the jail officials regarding the possibility of Rana being permitted regular phone calls in the future, as outlined in the Jail Manual.

Extension of Judicial Custody for Rana

On June 6, the court extended the judicial custody of Tahawwur Rana, who is considered a key figure in the 26/11 attacks. He is scheduled to appear in court again on July 9. Due to security concerns, Rana was presented virtually during the proceedings, where his legal counsel expressed worries about his health. The court has instructed Tihar Jail authorities to provide a health status report by June 9.

Previously, on June 4, a hearing was set for June 9 to address Rana's request for permission to communicate with his family while in custody. The court had sought a response from Tihar Jail regarding this request on May 28. Rana was initially remanded to judicial custody until June 6 following a court order on May 9.

On May 1, the court had allowed the NIA to collect voice and handwriting samples from Rana, facilitating further forensic analysis as part of the ongoing investigation into his involvement in the 2008 Mumbai terror attacks.