Pakistani-origin Canadian businessman and terror suspect&nbsp;Tahawwur Rana&nbsp;has filed a plea challenging a recent US court order that approved&nbsp;his extradition to India where he is facing trial for his involvement in the 2008 Mumbai terror attacks that led to the killing of 166 people, including six Americans.

Filing the writ of habeas corpus through his lawyer, Rana, 62, has challenged his extradition by the Government of India.

<h2>Rana claims order violates US-India extradition treaty</h2>

Rana's lawyers have argued that his extradition would violate the United States-India extradition treaty in multiple aspects. They say Rana has&nbsp;been tried and acquitted in the United States District Court for the Northern District of Illinois on charges of similar conduct for which India seeks to prosecute him.

They've argued that extradition is therefore barred under Article 6(1) of the Treaty, which declares that "[e]xtradition shall not be granted when the person sought has been convicted or acquitted in the Requested State for the offence for which extradition is requested."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/us-court-approves-extradition-of-2611-attack-accused-tahawwur-rana-to-india-593456">US court approves extradition of 26/11 attack accused Tahawwur Rana to India</a>

On June 10, 2020, India filed a complaint seeking the provisional arrest of Rana with a view towards extradition. The Biden administration had supported and approved the extradition of Rana to India.

“The Court has reviewed and considered all of the documents submitted in support of and in opposition to the Request, and has considered the arguments presented at the hearing,” Judge Jacqueline Chooljian, US Magistrate Judge of the US District Court Central District of California, said in a 48-page court order dated May 16, 2023.

<h2>Rana knew of David Headley’s complicity in 26/11 attacks</h2>

During court hearings, the US Government lawyers stated that Rana was aware that his childhood friend Pakistani-American David Coleman Headley was involved with Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT). Rana still assisted&nbsp;Headley and provided him cover for his activities. Thereby,&nbsp;he was supporting the terrorist organisation and its associates.

Rana knew of Headley's meetings, what was discussed, and the planning of the attacks, including some of the targets.

The US government asserted that Rana was part of the conspiracy and there is probable cause that he committed the substantive crime of commission of a terrorist act.

Also read |&nbsp;US court allows extradition of 26/11 accused Tahawwur Rana to India

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Rana is currently detained at the Metropolitan Detention Center in Los Angeles, United States.

Rana was arrested in the US on an extradition request by India for his role in these attacks.

India's National Investigation Agency (NIA) is probing his role in the 26/11 attacks carried out by Pakistan-based Lashkar-e-Taiba terrorists in 2008. The NIA has said that it is ready to initiate proceedings to bring him to India through diplomatic channels.

A total of 166 people, including six Americans, were killed in the 2008 Mumbai terror attacks in which 10 Pakistani terrorists laid a more than 60-hour siege on November 26, 2008.

(With inputs from agencies)

 
 
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Pakistani-origin Canadian businessman and terror suspect Tahawwur Rana has filed a plea challenging a recent US court order that approved his extradition to India where he is facing trial for his involvement in the 2008 Mumbai terror attacks that led to the killing of 166 people, including six Americans.

Pakistani-origin Canadian businessman and terror suspect Tahawwur Rana has filed a plea challenging a recent US court order that approved his extradition to India where he is facing trial for his involvement in the 2008 Mumbai terror attacks that led to the killing of 166 people, including six Americans. Filing the writ of habeas corpus through his lawyer, Rana, 62, has challenged his extradition by the Government of India. Rana claims order violates US-India extradition treaty Rana's lawyers have argued that his extradition would violate the United States-India extradition treaty in multiple aspects. They say Rana has been tried and acquitted in the United States District Court for the Northern District of Illinois on charges of similar conduct for which India seeks to prosecute him. They've argued that extradition is therefore barred under Article 6(1) of the Treaty, which declares that "[e]xtradition shall not be granted when the person sought has been convicted or acquitted in the Requested State for the offence for which extradition is requested." Also read | US court approves extradition of 26/11 attack accused Tahawwur Rana to India On June 10, 2020, India filed a complaint seeking the provisional arrest of Rana with a view towards extradition. The Biden administration had supported and approved the extradition of Rana to India. “The Court has reviewed and considered all of the documents submitted in support of and in opposition to the Request, and has considered the arguments presented at the hearing,” Judge Jacqueline Chooljian, US Magistrate Judge of the US District Court Central District of California, said in a 48-page court order dated May 16, 2023. Rana knew of David Headley’s complicity in 26/11 attacks During court hearings, the US Government lawyers stated that Rana was aware that his childhood friend Pakistani-American David Coleman Headley was involved with Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT). Rana still assisted Headley and provided him cover for his activities. Thereby, he was supporting the terrorist organisation and its associates. Rana knew of Headley's meetings, what was discussed, and the planning of the attacks, including some of the targets. The US government asserted that Rana was part of the conspiracy and there is probable cause that he committed the substantive crime of commission of a terrorist act. Also read | US court allows extradition of 26/11 accused Tahawwur Rana to India × Rana is currently detained at the Metropolitan Detention Center in Los Angeles, United States. Rana was arrested in the US on an extradition request by India for his role in these attacks. India's National Investigation Agency (NIA) is probing his role in the 26/11 attacks carried out by Pakistan-based Lashkar-e-Taiba terrorists in 2008. The NIA has said that it is ready to initiate proceedings to bring him to India through diplomatic channels. A total of 166 people, including six Americans, were killed in the 2008 Mumbai terror attacks in which 10 Pakistani terrorists laid a more than 60-hour siege on November 26, 2008. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

US: Mumbai 26/11 attack accused Tahawwur Rana challenges order of his extradition to India

In Pics | India marked 14 years of 26/11 terror attack on Mumbai

Indian cricket team's ODI and Test captain Virat Kohli on Friday (November 26) paid tribute to those who lost their lives in the 26/11 Mumbai terror attacks. The ghastly attacks which rocked Mumbai on November 26, 2011, were carried out by ten terrorists of the Lashkar-e-Taiba, who had entered the city via the sea route from Pakistan.

Friday marks 13 years of the dreadful attacks which left a scar in the hearts of millions across India. The terrorists had carried out a series of coordinated shootings and attacks across major landmarks in Mumbai, killing hundreds of innocent while injuring hundreds.

Remembering those who lost their lives in the deadly terror attacks, Kohli took to Twitter to pay his tribute. "We will never forget this day, we will never forget the lives lost. Sending my prayers to the friends and families who lost their loved ones," he wrote in a tweet.

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We will never forget this day, we will never forget the lives lost. Sending my prayers to the friends and families who lost their loved ones 🙏
— Virat Kohli (@imVkohli) <a href="https://twitter.com/imVkohli/status/1464117795923185667?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 26, 2021</a></blockquote>
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The attacks were carried out at the crowded Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus (CST) railway station, Nariman House business and residential complex, Leopold Cafe and the Taj Mahal Hotel. the Oberoi-Trident Hotel also witnessed bloodshed as two terrorists killed 30 people in the ghastly attacks.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-gears-up-for-2nd-test-vs-nz-in-mumbai-trains-with-rcb-coach-sanjay-bangar-431845">Virat Kohli gears up for 2nd Test vs NZ in Mumbai, trains with RCB coach Sanjay Bangar</a>

Over 160 people were killed in the attacks across the city while several were left injured. Nine terrorists were gunned down while Ajmal Amir Kasab, the one survivor was caught and sentenced to deal at the Yerwada Central Jail in Pune in 2012.

Post the attacks it was revealed that the terrorists had entered Mumbai via sea route from Karachi and the &nbsp;Jamaat-ud-Dawah (JuD) led by terrorist Hafiz Saeed&nbsp; had plotted the attacks.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Indian cricket team's ODI and Test captain Virat Kohli on Friday (November 26) paid tribute to those who lost their lives in the 26/11 Mumbai terror attacks. The ghastly attacks which rocked Mumbai on November 26, 2011, were carried out by ten terrorists of the Lashkar-e-Taiba, who had entered the city via the sea route from Pakistan.

Indian cricket team's ODI and Test captain Virat Kohli on Friday (November 26) paid tribute to those who lost their lives in the 26/11 Mumbai terror attacks. The ghastly attacks which rocked Mumbai on November 26, 2011, were carried out by ten terrorists of the Lashkar-e-Taiba, who had entered the city via the sea route from Pakistan. Friday marks 13 years of the dreadful attacks which left a scar in the hearts of millions across India. The terrorists had carried out a series of coordinated shootings and attacks across major landmarks in Mumbai, killing hundreds of innocent while injuring hundreds. Remembering those who lost their lives in the deadly terror attacks, Kohli took to Twitter to pay his tribute. "We will never forget this day, we will never forget the lives lost. Sending my prayers to the friends and families who lost their loved ones," he wrote in a tweet. We will never forget this day, we will never forget the lives lost. Sending my prayers to the friends and families who lost their loved ones 🙏 — Virat Kohli (@imVkohli) November 26, 2021 × The attacks were carried out at the crowded Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus (CST) railway station, Nariman House business and residential complex, Leopold Cafe and the Taj Mahal Hotel. the Oberoi-Trident Hotel also witnessed bloodshed as two terrorists killed 30 people in the ghastly attacks. Also Read: Virat Kohli gears up for 2nd Test vs NZ in Mumbai, trains with RCB coach Sanjay Bangar Over 160 people were killed in the attacks across the city while several were left injured. Nine terrorists were gunned down while Ajmal Amir Kasab, the one survivor was caught and sentenced to deal at the Yerwada Central Jail in Pune in 2012. Post the attacks it was revealed that the terrorists had entered Mumbai via sea route from Karachi and the Jamaat-ud-Dawah (JuD) led by terrorist Hafiz Saeed had plotted the attacks.

Virat Kohli pays tribute to victims of 26/11 Mumbai attacks: We will never forget this day

India on Tuesday asserted that the international community must not allow terrorism to be justified and terrorists glorified as it told the UN Security Council that the crime syndicate responsible for the 1993 Mumbai bomb blasts is given not just State protection but enjoying 5-star hospitality, a thinly-veiled reference to the D-company head Dawood Ibrahim believed to be hiding in Pakistan.

"First, we must all summon up the political will to unhesitatingly combat terrorism. There must be no ifs and buts in this fight. Nor should we allow terrorism to be justified and terrorists glorified. All member States must fulfill their obligations enshrined in international counter terrorism instruments and conventions, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar said in a virtual address.

Jaishankar was speaking at the UNSC Ministerial Meeting on Threats to international peace and security caused by terrorist acts: International cooperation in combating terrorism 20 years after the adoption of resolution 1373 (2001),' the first address by the minister to the Security Council after India began its two-year tenure on the 15-nation body this month.

Jaishankar proposed an eight-point Action Plan for the UN system to credibly address the menace of terrorism and ensure effective action.

He asserted that linkages between terrorism and transnational organised crime must be fully recognised and addressed vigorously.

He is the senior-most Indian leader to address the UNSC since India joined the powerful 15-member UN body as a non-permanent member this month for a two-year tenure.

"We, in India, have seen the crime syndicate responsible for the 1993 Mumbai bomb blasts not just given State protection but actually enjoying 5-star hospitality," he said, alluding to D-Company and its head Ibrahim, believed to be hiding in Pakistan.

In August last year, Pakistan had for the first time acknowledged the presence of Ibrahim on its soil after the government imposed sweeping sanctions on 88 banned terror groups and their leaders which also included the name of the underworld don wanted by India.

Jaishankar emphasised that the international community must not "countenance double standards" in the battle against terrorism.

"Terrorists are terrorists; there are no good and bad ones. Those who propagate this distinction have an agenda. And those who cover up for them are just as culpable," he said.

In a strongly-worded statement, Jaishankar said combating terrorist financing will only be as effective as the weakest jurisdiction.

The Financial Action Task Force (FATF) should continue to identify and remedy weaknesses in anti-money laundering and counter-terror financing frameworks.

He also added that enlisting and delisting individuals and entities under the UN sanctions regimes must be done objectively, not for political or religious considerations.

India on Tuesday asserted that the international community must not allow terrorism to be justified and terrorists glorified as it told the UN Security Council that the crime syndicate responsible for the 1993 Mumbai bomb blasts is given not just State protection but enjoying 5-star hospitality, a thinly-veiled reference to the D-company head Dawood Ibrahim believed to be hiding in Pakistan.

India on Tuesday asserted that the international community must not allow terrorism to be justified and terrorists glorified as it told the UN Security Council that the crime syndicate responsible for the 1993 Mumbai bomb blasts is given not just State protection but enjoying 5-star hospitality, a thinly-veiled reference to the D-company head Dawood Ibrahim believed to be hiding in Pakistan. "First, we must all summon up the political will to unhesitatingly combat terrorism. There must be no ifs and buts in this fight. Nor should we allow terrorism to be justified and terrorists glorified. All member States must fulfill their obligations enshrined in international counter terrorism instruments and conventions, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar said in a virtual address. Jaishankar was speaking at the UNSC Ministerial Meeting on Threats to international peace and security caused by terrorist acts: International cooperation in combating terrorism 20 years after the adoption of resolution 1373 (2001),' the first address by the minister to the Security Council after India began its two-year tenure on the 15-nation body this month. Jaishankar proposed an eight-point Action Plan for the UN system to credibly address the menace of terrorism and ensure effective action. He asserted that linkages between terrorism and transnational organised crime must be fully recognised and addressed vigorously. He is the senior-most Indian leader to address the UNSC since India joined the powerful 15-member UN body as a non-permanent member this month for a two-year tenure. "We, in India, have seen the crime syndicate responsible for the 1993 Mumbai bomb blasts not just given State protection but actually enjoying 5-star hospitality," he said, alluding to D-Company and its head Ibrahim, believed to be hiding in Pakistan. In August last year, Pakistan had for the first time acknowledged the presence of Ibrahim on its soil after the government imposed sweeping sanctions on 88 banned terror groups and their leaders which also included the name of the underworld don wanted by India. Jaishankar emphasised that the international community must not "countenance double standards" in the battle against terrorism. "Terrorists are terrorists; there are no good and bad ones. Those who propagate this distinction have an agenda. And those who cover up for them are just as culpable," he said. In a strongly-worded statement, Jaishankar said combating terrorist financing will only be as effective as the weakest jurisdiction. The Financial Action Task Force (FATF) should continue to identify and remedy weaknesses in anti-money laundering and counter-terror financing frameworks. He also added that enlisting and delisting individuals and entities under the UN sanctions regimes must be done objectively, not for political or religious considerations.

Mumbai blasts perpetrators enjoying 5-star hospitality under State protection: Jaishankar tells UNSC

After Pakistan authorities arrested <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pakistan-arrests-2611-mumbai-terror-attack-mastermind-hafiz-saeed-236587">Hafiz Saeed on terror financing</a>&nbsp;charges, US President Trump tweeted, saying that after a ten-year search, the so-called “mastermind” of the Mumbai terror attacks has been arrested in Pakistan".&nbsp;

"Great pressure has been exerted over the last two years to find him!" Trump added.

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After a ten year search, the so-called “mastermind” of the Mumbai Terror attacks has been arrested in Pakistan. Great pressure has been exerted over the last two years to find him!
— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) <a href="https://twitter.com/realDonaldTrump/status/1151495794295525378?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 17, 2019</a></blockquote>
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India blames Saeed for masterminding the 2008 Mumbai terror attacks in which 166 people were killed including several Americans. On Wednesday, Saeed was arrested near the town of Gujranwala in central Pakistan.

"The main charge is that he is gathering funds for banned outfits, which is illegal," Punjab&nbsp;governor spokesman Shahbaz Gill&nbsp;said.

Saeed denied all charges.&nbsp;

The Punjab counter-terrorism department said that Saeed had been arrested while going to a court in Gujranwala to seek pre-arrest bail but was remanded in custody.

The anti-terror court in Lahore had earlier granted interim pre-arrest bail to the Jamat-ud-Dawa(JuD) chief.

Saeed was declared a global terrorist by the UNSC recently after a long, protracted battle by India at the UN body, a move which was consistently blocked by China. The US had declared a $10 million reward for capturing the Pakistan-based terrorist.

The arrest of the JuD chief comes just months ahead of Pakistan's probable blacklisting at the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) which had slammed the Imran Khan-led government for not doing enough to stop money laundering and terror financing in the country.

After Pakistan authorities arrested Hafiz Saeed on terror financing charges, US President Trump tweeted, saying that after a ten-year search, the so-called “mastermind” of the Mumbai terror attacks has been arrested in Pakistan".

After Pakistan authorities arrested Hafiz Saeed on terror financing charges, US President Trump tweeted, saying that after a ten-year search, the so-called “mastermind” of the Mumbai terror attacks has been arrested in Pakistan". "Great pressure has been exerted over the last two years to find him!" Trump added. After a ten year search, the so-called “mastermind” of the Mumbai Terror attacks has been arrested in Pakistan. Great pressure has been exerted over the last two years to find him! — Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) July 17, 2019 × India blames Saeed for masterminding the 2008 Mumbai terror attacks in which 166 people were killed including several Americans. On Wednesday, Saeed was arrested near the town of Gujranwala in central Pakistan. "The main charge is that he is gathering funds for banned outfits, which is illegal," Punjab governor spokesman Shahbaz Gill said. Saeed denied all charges. The Punjab counter-terrorism department said that Saeed had been arrested while going to a court in Gujranwala to seek pre-arrest bail but was remanded in custody. The anti-terror court in Lahore had earlier granted interim pre-arrest bail to the Jamat-ud-Dawa(JuD) chief. Saeed was declared a global terrorist by the UNSC recently after a long, protracted battle by India at the UN body, a move which was consistently blocked by China. The US had declared a $10 million reward for capturing the Pakistan-based terrorist. The arrest of the JuD chief comes just months ahead of Pakistan's probable blacklisting at the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) which had slammed the Imran Khan-led government for not doing enough to stop money laundering and terror financing in the country.

Mumbai terror attack 'mastermind' arrested in Pakistan, tweets Trump

India asks Pakistan to expedite Mumbai 26/11 terror attack probe

Mumbai attacks mastermind <a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/opinion-if-pakistan-army-wants-nothing-can-stop-hafiz-saeed-from-being-a-free-man-24881">Hafiz Saeed </a>has donned the hat of a column writer for a leading Urdu newspaper, stirring a debate among journalists as to how the media house allowed the head of a banned terror group to write on the Kashmir issue and the creation of Bangladesh in 1971.&nbsp;

Saeed was<a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/hafiz-saeed-designated-global-terrorist-us-reminds-pakistan-24887"> declared a global terrorist</a> by the US and the UN after the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-will-never-forgive-hafiz-saeed-for-his-role-in-2611-mumbai-attacks-syed-akbaruddin-185093">2008 Mumbai attack</a> and was put under house arrest in November 2008 but freed by a court some months later. He carries a $10 million American bounties on his head for his role in terror activities.

‘Illegal aggression of India on East Pakistan… Why Pakistan is avoiding advocating for Kashmiri people’ written by “Professor Hafiz Mohammad Saeed” appeared in Daily Dunya (an Urdu publication of Dunya media group of Mian Amer Mahmood) on Sunday.&nbsp;

The article carries a picture of former prime minister Indira Gandhi and some young men holding guns in Dhaka. Allowing the head of a banned terror group to contribute for a known media house has stirred debate with journalists questioning whether the company in question allowed Saeed to write due to some “direct links” with the owner or under “someone’s pressure”.

A court has ordered the Pakistan Electronic Media Regulatory Authority to ensure that the Pakistani media does not display Saeed’s pictures. 
In his article, “Saeed said Indira hatched a conspiracy to dismember Pakistan”, lamenting the then Pakistani rulers for their failure.&nbsp;

Saeed has extensively explained the role of India in the creation of Bangladesh and expressed his opinion as to why Kashmir is important for Pakistan. He said Pakistan should support the Kashmiri people.

India has been demanding Pakistan not only to arrest the Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) founder and try him in the Mumbai attack case but also to punish all those involved in this carnage.&nbsp;

Saeed launched the Milli Muslim League (MML) party in August 2017 with a so-called mission to implement the ideology of Pakistan in accordance with the 1973 Constitution.

In April this year, the US placed the MML on its list of foreign terror organisations for its links with the LeT. The government has said that the MML is an off-shoot of Saeed’s Jamat-ud Dawah (JuD), which has been declared as a foreign terrorist organisation by the US in June 2014.

The JuD is believed to be the front organisation for the LeT which is responsible for carrying out the 2008 Mumbai attack that killed 166 people, including some Americans.

Mumbai attacks mastermind Hafiz Saeed has donned the hat of a column writer for a leading Urdu newspaper, stirring a debate among journalists as to how the media house allowed the head of a banned terror group to write on the Kashmir issue and the creation of Bangladesh in 1971.

Mumbai attacks mastermind Hafiz Saeed has donned the hat of a column writer for a leading Urdu newspaper, stirring a debate among journalists as to how the media house allowed the head of a banned terror group to write on the Kashmir issue and the creation of Bangladesh in 1971. Saeed was declared a global terrorist by the US and the UN after the 2008 Mumbai attack and was put under house arrest in November 2008 but freed by a court some months later. He carries a $10 million American bounties on his head for his role in terror activities. ‘Illegal aggression of India on East Pakistan… Why Pakistan is avoiding advocating for Kashmiri people’ written by “Professor Hafiz Mohammad Saeed” appeared in Daily Dunya (an Urdu publication of Dunya media group of Mian Amer Mahmood) on Sunday. The article carries a picture of former prime minister Indira Gandhi and some young men holding guns in Dhaka. Allowing the head of a banned terror group to contribute for a known media house has stirred debate with journalists questioning whether the company in question allowed Saeed to write due to some “direct links” with the owner or under “someone’s pressure”. A court has ordered the Pakistan Electronic Media Regulatory Authority to ensure that the Pakistani media does not display Saeed’s pictures. In his article, “Saeed said Indira hatched a conspiracy to dismember Pakistan”, lamenting the then Pakistani rulers for their failure. Saeed has extensively explained the role of India in the creation of Bangladesh and expressed his opinion as to why Kashmir is important for Pakistan. He said Pakistan should support the Kashmiri people. India has been demanding Pakistan not only to arrest the Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) founder and try him in the Mumbai attack case but also to punish all those involved in this carnage. Saeed launched the Milli Muslim League (MML) party in August 2017 with a so-called mission to implement the ideology of Pakistan in accordance with the 1973 Constitution. In April this year, the US placed the MML on its list of foreign terror organisations for its links with the LeT. The government has said that the MML is an off-shoot of Saeed’s Jamat-ud Dawah (JuD), which has been declared as a foreign terrorist organisation by the US in June 2014. The JuD is believed to be the front organisation for the LeT which is responsible for carrying out the 2008 Mumbai attack that killed 166 people, including some Americans.

26/11 mastermind Hafiz Saeed becomes ‘contributing writer’ in Pakistani newspaper

A group of dissident Pakistanis, mostly living in self-exile, has called on the country's government to "choke funding and support" of militant groups, including Mumbai terror attack mastermind Hafiz Saeed-led Jamaat-ud-Dawa, that are operating openly in Pakistan.

The dissident members participated in a three-day deliberative conference here and expressed grave concern over the growing authoritarianism, expansion of military's control over public policy and weakening of civilian institutions in Pakistan.

"May the people of Pakistan always be blessed and may they find a way forward from this authoritarian nightmare that continues to damn our country," former Pakistan ambassador to the US Husain Haqqani said on Sunday at the conclusion of the conference.

Organised under the banner of South Asians Against Terrorism and for Human Rights (SAATH) and co-hosted by Haqqani and US-based columnist Mohammad Taqi, the participants in a resolution said the results of the 2018 elections in Pakistan lacked credibility and were seen as one of the most politically engineered polls.

"The polls raised hopes of positive change among PTI supporters, but as widely predicted, those hopes were dashed during the first three months of the new government," said the resolution.

Calling on the government to "choke funding and support" of militant groups operating openly in Pakistan, the participants demanded that action is taken against hate groups and extremist organisations like the Tehreek-e-Labbaik Pakistan (TLP), Jamaat-ud-Dawah (JuD), Lashkar-e-Jhangv (LeJ) among others, ostensibly being mainstreamed by the security establishment.

They denounced the growing tendency of the State to use the superior judiciary and the National Accountability Bureau for political witch-hunts. This was the third SAATH conference. The first two conferences were held in London.

The new government of Prime Minister Imran Khan has exposed itself through a series of U-turns, immature claims and outlandish promises, which has become a source of alarm at home and abroad about the government's capacity and aptitude to tackle Pakistan's complex problems, as well as their spill-over in the South Asian region and across the world, it said.

"2018 will be remembered as the year when the Pakistani media witnessed a tight squeeze before and after elections, editorially as well as financially. The security establishment's interference reached new heights to target media houses, journalists, TV anchors, as well as social media activists," the resolution said.

Welcoming the opening of the Kartarpur corridor for the Sikh community, the conference called for more people-to-people contact, trade and travel with Pakistan's eastern and western neighbours.

Haqqani said there was something wrong in the way Pakistan is being run politically and economically.

"That needs to be understood, that needs to be critiqued and that needs to be figured out," he said.

Haqqani said there is more to Pakistan than just institutions: the Pakistan military and the Pakistani intelligence service. The participants also condemned the "enforced disappearances" of activists and ordinary citizens.

They called for the rights of the people to be fully respected and the inclusion of their representatives in any decision-making regarding projects under China Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC).

The UN declared JuD a terror organisation and also individually designated Saeed as a terrorist in December 2008. The US has already put a $10 million bounty on his head.

Saeed, who orchestrated the November 2008 Mumbai terror attack in which 166 people were killed, roams around freely in Pakistan despite being a designated terrorist and has made many anti-India remarks and speeches.

A group of dissident Pakistanis, mostly living in self-exile, has called on the country's government to "choke funding and support" of militant groups, including Mumbai terror attack mastermind Hafiz Saeed-led Jamaat-ud-Dawa, that are operating openly in Pakistan.

A group of dissident Pakistanis, mostly living in self-exile, has called on the country's government to "choke funding and support" of militant groups, including Mumbai terror attack mastermind Hafiz Saeed-led Jamaat-ud-Dawa, that are operating openly in Pakistan. The dissident members participated in a three-day deliberative conference here and expressed grave concern over the growing authoritarianism, expansion of military's control over public policy and weakening of civilian institutions in Pakistan. "May the people of Pakistan always be blessed and may they find a way forward from this authoritarian nightmare that continues to damn our country," former Pakistan ambassador to the US Husain Haqqani said on Sunday at the conclusion of the conference. Organised under the banner of South Asians Against Terrorism and for Human Rights (SAATH) and co-hosted by Haqqani and US-based columnist Mohammad Taqi, the participants in a resolution said the results of the 2018 elections in Pakistan lacked credibility and were seen as one of the most politically engineered polls. "The polls raised hopes of positive change among PTI supporters, but as widely predicted, those hopes were dashed during the first three months of the new government," said the resolution. Calling on the government to "choke funding and support" of militant groups operating openly in Pakistan, the participants demanded that action is taken against hate groups and extremist organisations like the Tehreek-e-Labbaik Pakistan (TLP), Jamaat-ud-Dawah (JuD), Lashkar-e-Jhangv (LeJ) among others, ostensibly being mainstreamed by the security establishment. They denounced the growing tendency of the State to use the superior judiciary and the National Accountability Bureau for political witch-hunts. This was the third SAATH conference. The first two conferences were held in London. The new government of Prime Minister Imran Khan has exposed itself through a series of U-turns, immature claims and outlandish promises, which has become a source of alarm at home and abroad about the government's capacity and aptitude to tackle Pakistan's complex problems, as well as their spill-over in the South Asian region and across the world, it said. "2018 will be remembered as the year when the Pakistani media witnessed a tight squeeze before and after elections, editorially as well as financially. The security establishment's interference reached new heights to target media houses, journalists, TV anchors, as well as social media activists," the resolution said. Welcoming the opening of the Kartarpur corridor for the Sikh community, the conference called for more people-to-people contact, trade and travel with Pakistan's eastern and western neighbours. Haqqani said there was something wrong in the way Pakistan is being run politically and economically. "That needs to be understood, that needs to be critiqued and that needs to be figured out," he said. Haqqani said there is more to Pakistan than just institutions: the Pakistan military and the Pakistani intelligence service. The participants also condemned the "enforced disappearances" of activists and ordinary citizens. They called for the rights of the people to be fully respected and the inclusion of their representatives in any decision-making regarding projects under China Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC). The UN declared JuD a terror organisation and also individually designated Saeed as a terrorist in December 2008. The US has already put a $10 million bounty on his head. Saeed, who orchestrated the November 2008 Mumbai terror attack in which 166 people were killed, roams around freely in Pakistan despite being a designated terrorist and has made many anti-India remarks and speeches.

Dissident Pakistanis call for choking of funds of militant groups

Watch: WION Dispatch, 26th November, 2018

In pics: Meet the survivors of 26/11 Mumbai terror attacks

A report by the Indian think tank Strategic Foresight Group (SFG) and Oxford University says&nbsp;there is the possibility that Mumbai terror attack mastermind and terrorist outfit Lashkar-e-Taiba chief Hafiz Saeed could in the near future become Pakistan's prime minister.

The report,&nbsp;titled 'Humanity at Risk-Global Terror Threat Indicant', came up with the hypothetical scenario post-2020. It predicted that the dominance of terrorists and extremists could lead to attacks targeting India's political and financial systems with the "open support of the Pakistan military".&nbsp;

The report also predicted that extremist and religious political parties in Pakistan would become increasingly popular.

"Extremist and religious political parties in Pakistan (are) become increasingly popular. Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) is able to build its party infrastructure and contest the federal elections successfully in alliance with other extremist groups and active unofficial support from the military. Pakistan [could] then elect Hafiz Saeed as the head of government," the report&nbsp;mentioned.

The report also placed Pakistan at the top of the list of <a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-responsible-for-three-times-the-terror-risk-to-humanity-than-syria-report-173753">countries that pose a threat</a> to "humanity" and "global peace".&nbsp;

The report goes on to warn about the threat of a full-scale war between India and Pakistan following Pakistan-sponsored terror attacks.

"LeT is able to build its party infrastructure and contest the federal elections successfully, in alliance with other extremist groups and active unofficial support from the military. Pakistan then elects LeT founder Hafiz Saeed as the head of government," it said.&nbsp;

The study also predicted that eastern Afghanistan and western Pakistan, the two relatively lawless border areas between the two countries, could become a single breakaway Taliban state.&nbsp;

The report also predicted that al-Qaida would gain a foothold by co-opting other separatist and ethnic movements in Myanmar, Bangladesh and Thailand.&nbsp;

"The US summarily exits Afghanistan and Iraq under the leadership of a right-wing president inaugurated in January 2029, throwing those countries into major chaos. China's involvement in Afghanistan, specifically the attempt to play interlocutor with the Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan, backfires. Incensed Pakistani and Afghan terror groups incite violence within China, thereby emboldening Uighur militants to launch a major attack in Beijing or Shanghai," the report said.

'Global Terror Threat Indicant' (GTTI) concludes that LeT and JeM are greater threats to humanity than the Islamic State/Daesh. 
&nbsp;

A report by the Indian think tank Strategic Foresight Group (SFG) and Oxford University says there is the possibility that Mumbai terror attack mastermind and terrorist outfit Lashkar-e-Taiba chief Hafiz Saeed could in the near future become Pakistan's prime minister.

A report by the Indian think tank Strategic Foresight Group (SFG) and Oxford University says there is the possibility that Mumbai terror attack mastermind and terrorist outfit Lashkar-e-Taiba chief Hafiz Saeed could in the near future become Pakistan's prime minister. The report, titled 'Humanity at Risk-Global Terror Threat Indicant', came up with the hypothetical scenario post-2020. It predicted that the dominance of terrorists and extremists could lead to attacks targeting India's political and financial systems with the "open support of the Pakistan military". The report also predicted that extremist and religious political parties in Pakistan would become increasingly popular. "Extremist and religious political parties in Pakistan (are) become increasingly popular. Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) is able to build its party infrastructure and contest the federal elections successfully in alliance with other extremist groups and active unofficial support from the military. Pakistan [could] then elect Hafiz Saeed as the head of government," the report mentioned. The report also placed Pakistan at the top of the list of countries that pose a threat to "humanity" and "global peace". The report goes on to warn about the threat of a full-scale war between India and Pakistan following Pakistan-sponsored terror attacks. "LeT is able to build its party infrastructure and contest the federal elections successfully, in alliance with other extremist groups and active unofficial support from the military. Pakistan then elects LeT founder Hafiz Saeed as the head of government," it said. The study also predicted that eastern Afghanistan and western Pakistan, the two relatively lawless border areas between the two countries, could become a single breakaway Taliban state. The report also predicted that al-Qaida would gain a foothold by co-opting other separatist and ethnic movements in Myanmar, Bangladesh and Thailand. "The US summarily exits Afghanistan and Iraq under the leadership of a right-wing president inaugurated in January 2029, throwing those countries into major chaos. China's involvement in Afghanistan, specifically the attempt to play interlocutor with the Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan, backfires. Incensed Pakistani and Afghan terror groups incite violence within China, thereby emboldening Uighur militants to launch a major attack in Beijing or Shanghai," the report said. 'Global Terror Threat Indicant' (GTTI) concludes that LeT and JeM are greater threats to humanity than the Islamic State/Daesh.

'Mumbai terror attack mastermind Hafiz Saeed could become Pakistan PM'

Hafiz Saeed's lawyer has told a Pakistan court that the presidential order on banning the Jamaatud Dawa (JuD) and Falah-i-Insaniyat Foundation (FIF) has lapsed placing it outside the list of banned outfits.

Pakistan's National Counter Terrorism Authority has said JuD &amp; FIF are "organisations under watch".

The Imran Khan-led Pakistan government will have to get a new ordinance made since the ordinance expires in 120 days. It can be renewed for another 120 days and then will have either to be made law or scrapped.

There are 66 organisations including FiF and JuD which are not banned anymore under the new circumstances.

On February 10th, during the tenure of interim Pakistan government, ex-president Hussain had promulgated an ordinance to amend the Anti-Terrorism Act, 1997 to place JuD and FIF in the act, however, Saeed's counsel informed that PM Imran's government had not extended the ordinance nor tabled it in Parliament to convert it into an act.

India blames Hafiz Saeed for masterminding the Mumbai terror attacks in 2008. The United Nations Security Council had designated JuD as a terrorist organisation under resolution 1267 after the Mumbai attacks and it was banned by the Pakistan government in 2012.

In 2014, the US administration had added JuD in the global terrorist organisations' list.

Saeed lawyer told the Islamabad High Court that the ordinance was against the sovereignty and Constitution of Pakistan.

The government had taken over nearly 184 buildings, schools and hospitals belonging to the JuD and FIF after the presidential ordinance was signed. The government had also frozen the bank accounts of the two organisations.

The JuD had decided to launch a legal challenge against the ordinance.

The US, since 2012, has offered a $10 million reward for information leading to the arrest of Hafiz Saeed.

Hafiz Saeed's lawyer has told a Pakistan court that the presidential order on banning the Jamaatud Dawa (JuD) and Falah-i-Insaniyat Foundation (FIF) has lapsed placing it outside the list of banned outfits.

Hafiz Saeed's lawyer has told a Pakistan court that the presidential order on banning the Jamaatud Dawa (JuD) and Falah-i-Insaniyat Foundation (FIF) has lapsed placing it outside the list of banned outfits. Pakistan's National Counter Terrorism Authority has said JuD & FIF are "organisations under watch". The Imran Khan-led Pakistan government will have to get a new ordinance made since the ordinance expires in 120 days. It can be renewed for another 120 days and then will have either to be made law or scrapped. There are 66 organisations including FiF and JuD which are not banned anymore under the new circumstances. On February 10th, during the tenure of interim Pakistan government, ex-president Hussain had promulgated an ordinance to amend the Anti-Terrorism Act, 1997 to place JuD and FIF in the act, however, Saeed's counsel informed that PM Imran's government had not extended the ordinance nor tabled it in Parliament to convert it into an act. India blames Hafiz Saeed for masterminding the Mumbai terror attacks in 2008. The United Nations Security Council had designated JuD as a terrorist organisation under resolution 1267 after the Mumbai attacks and it was banned by the Pakistan government in 2012. In 2014, the US administration had added JuD in the global terrorist organisations' list. Saeed lawyer told the Islamabad High Court that the ordinance was against the sovereignty and Constitution of Pakistan. The government had taken over nearly 184 buildings, schools and hospitals belonging to the JuD and FIF after the presidential ordinance was signed. The government had also frozen the bank accounts of the two organisations. The JuD had decided to launch a legal challenge against the ordinance. The US, since 2012, has offered a $10 million reward for information leading to the arrest of Hafiz Saeed.

Hafiz Saeed's JuD no longer in banned list, Pak terror authority places outfit under 'watch list'

Mumbai attack mastermind Hafiz Saeed&#39;s house arrest will be set aside if the Pakistan government does not submit evidence against him, a top court here has warned.

Saeed, the Jamaat-ud-Dawa chief, is under house arrest since January 31.

The Lahore High Court (LHC) yesterday heard a plea against his detention. The interior secretary was supposed to appear before the court along with complete record of the case related to his detention along with four others.

Irked by the absence of the interior secretary during the proceedings, the LHC observed that &quot;no citizen can be detained for an extended period on the basis of merely press clippings&quot;.

&quot;The conduct of the government shows it has no substantial evidence against the petitioners. The detention of the petitioners will be set aside if no concrete evidence is presented before the court,&quot; Justice Syed Mazahar Ali Akbar Naqvi said.

Another official of the interior ministry accompanied by a deputy attorney general told the court that the secretary could not attend the proceedings due to unavoidable official responsibilities in Islamabad. The law officer sought time to file a reply to the petition.

Justice Naqvi regretted that an army of officers was assigned to protect one government personality but not a single officer was available to assist the court.

Lamenting repeated requests for adjournment, the judge said the law officers wanted courts to stop working.The judge adjourned hearing till October 13.

Saeed&#39;s advocate A K Dogar argued that the government detained the JuD leaders on the basis of apprehensions and hearsay. He said under the law no presumption and assumption could give rise to any apprehension unless it was supported by evidence.

Punjab government had already told the court that activities of JuD leaders, if released, would pose a great threat to public safety and can cause a breach of public order.

Saeed and his four aides - Abdullah Ubaid, Malik Zafar Iqbal, Abdul Rehman Abid and Qazi Kashif Hussain - have been placed under house arrest in Lahore under the anti-terrorism act.

On September 25, the house arrest of Saeed and others was extended for another 30 days by the Punjab government.

The JuD has been declared as a foreign terrorist organisation by the United States in June 2014.

The US has announced a $10 million bounty on Saeed&#39;s head for his role in terror activities.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Irked by the absence of the interior secretary during the proceedings, the LHC observed that "no citizen can be detained for an extended period on the basis of merely press clippings"

Mumbai attack mastermind Hafiz Saeed's house arrest will be set aside if the Pakistan government does not submit evidence against him, a top court here has warned. Saeed, the Jamaat-ud-Dawa chief, is under house arrest since January 31. The Lahore High Court (LHC) yesterday heard a plea against his detention. The interior secretary was supposed to appear before the court along with complete record of the case related to his detention along with four others. Irked by the absence of the interior secretary during the proceedings, the LHC observed that "no citizen can be detained for an extended period on the basis of merely press clippings". "The conduct of the government shows it has no substantial evidence against the petitioners. The detention of the petitioners will be set aside if no concrete evidence is presented before the court," Justice Syed Mazahar Ali Akbar Naqvi said. Another official of the interior ministry accompanied by a deputy attorney general told the court that the secretary could not attend the proceedings due to unavoidable official responsibilities in Islamabad. The law officer sought time to file a reply to the petition. Justice Naqvi regretted that an army of officers was assigned to protect one government personality but not a single officer was available to assist the court. Lamenting repeated requests for adjournment, the judge said the law officers wanted courts to stop working.The judge adjourned hearing till October 13. Saeed's advocate A K Dogar argued that the government detained the JuD leaders on the basis of apprehensions and hearsay. He said under the law no presumption and assumption could give rise to any apprehension unless it was supported by evidence. Punjab government had already told the court that activities of JuD leaders, if released, would pose a great threat to public safety and can cause a breach of public order. Saeed and his four aides - Abdullah Ubaid, Malik Zafar Iqbal, Abdul Rehman Abid and Qazi Kashif Hussain - have been placed under house arrest in Lahore under the anti-terrorism act. On September 25, the house arrest of Saeed and others was extended for another 30 days by the Punjab government. The JuD has been declared as a foreign terrorist organisation by the United States in June 2014. The US has announced a $10 million bounty on Saeed's head for his role in terror activities.

Hafiz Saeed will be released from house arrest if govt does not submit evidence: Pakistan court