The Patiala House Court in Delhi has extended the National Investigation Agency’s (NIA) custody of Tahawwur Hussain Rana, an accused in the 26/11 Mumbai terror attacks, for an additional 12 days.

The extension came after the NIA sought more time to deepen its probe following the completion of Rana's 18-day remand. Brought to court under heavy security with his face covered, Rana appeared for proceedings held in chambers.

Special NIA Judge Chander Jit Singh allowed the extension after hearing submissions from Senior Advocate Dayan Krishnan and Special Public Prosecutor Narender Mann on behalf of the NIA. Advocate Piyush Sachdeva from the Delhi Legal Services Authority appeared for Rana. Though Sachdeva did not oppose the extension, the details of his submissions were not disclosed.

Rana was extradited to India after the US Supreme Court rejected his review petition challenging the extradition order. He faces serious allegations linked to the 2008 Mumbai attacks, which claimed 166 lives. According to the NIA chargesheet, Rana allegedly assisted key conspirator David Headley in establishing a cover office in Mumbai under the name 'Immigrant Law Centre' and played a role in preparations targeting multiple Indian sites, including Chabad houses and the National Defence College.

The NIA argued that further custodial interrogation was essential to uncover critical evidence about Rana’s involvement. The court, noting the gravity and sensitivity of the case, agreed that a thorough investigation was necessary to serve justice in such a major terror incident.

The proceedings will continue as the NIA pursues further leads in the case.