Indian government has formally requested the extradition of Hafiz Saeed, the mastermind behind the Mumbai attacks, from Pakistan. Hafiz Saeed is wanted in several cases in India, and he has also been designated as a global terrorist by the United Nations. The request aims to bring him to justice in India, and appropriate documentation has been submitted to the Pakistani government to facilitate the extradition process.
Arindam Bagchi, the spokesperson for the Ministry of External Affairs, stated in a press conference, “Hafiz Saeed is wanted in multiple cases in India, and he is also designated as a terrorist by the United Nations. In connection with a specific case, we have requested the Pakistani government for his extradition to face legal proceedings in India, accompanied by the necessary supporting documents.”
Bagchi addressed the involvement of close associates of Hafiz Saeed in electoral politics, stating that such individuals entering politics is not a new phenomenon but emphasized that the matter is closely related to India’s national security. He stated, “While we do not comment on the internal affairs of any country, developments of this nature have serious implications for our security. We will continue to monitor such developments to safeguard our security interests.”
The extradition request comes in the context of Hafiz Saeed’s alleged involvement in planning and executing the 2008 Mumbai terror attacks, which claimed the lives of numerous innocent people. India has long sought justice for the victims and accountability for those responsible for the heinous act.
The spokesperson also underlined the seriousness of the issue, acknowledging that individuals like Hafiz Saeed have been part of the political landscape, but when their actions impact national security, it becomes a matter of great concern.
The extradition request adds another layer to the complex relationship between India and Pakistan, two neighboring nations with a history of geopolitical tensions. It remains to be seen how Pakistan responds to the formal request and whether this development will pave the way for legal proceedings against Hafiz Saeed in India.