India Urges Pakistan Again: Extradite Hafiz Saeed for 26/11 Mumbai Attacks Trial

Delhi: In a fresh diplomatic effort, India has once again asked Pakistan to extradite Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) founder and infamous 26/11 Mumbai attacks mastermind Hafiz Saeed. India’s Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Arindam Bagchi confirmed the request during the weekly briefing, emphasizing that Saeed is not only wanted in multiple cases in India but also stands as a UN-proscribed terrorist.

The extradition petition, along with relevant supporting documents, was communicated to Pakistan a few weeks ago, reflecting India’s persistent effort to prosecute Saeed for his alleged role in the 2008 Mumbai attacks. Despite the absence of an extradition treaty between the two countries, India’s unwavering pursuit of justice aligns with a court order directing Saeed to be tried in Pakistan or transferred to India.

Hafiz Saeed, who is facing a US$10 million bounty from the US government, remains a controversial figure in the region. Meanwhile, the news of Saeed’s son Talha Saeed contesting elections in Pakistan has increased concern. Declared a terrorist under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act in April 2022, Talha is the second-in-command of Lashkar-e-Taiba and controls its finances.

The mainstreaming of individuals associated with radical terrorist organizations in Pakistan has been a long-standing matter of concern for India, with Bagchi highlighting its serious implications for regional security. As India continues its quest for justice, the extradition petition adds a new chapter to the complex narrative surrounding Hafiz Saeed and the global fight against terrorism.