On April 10, 2025, Tahawwur Rana was extradited to Bharat from United States through the efforts of the BJP government, but the Congress party released multiple statements claiming credit, emphasizing that their government’s initiatives enabled this achievement. However, there track record of handling terrorists needs to be relooked.
This article analyzes seven key incidents between 1989 and 2013 when governments led by parties now part of the I.N.D.I alliance released or attempted to release approximately 169 terrorists. These decisions, often made under political, diplomatic, or humanitarian pretexts, have had long-lasting implications for Bharat’s security. The analysis contrasts these actions with the recent extradition of Tahawwur Rana, facilitated by the BJP government on April 10, 2025.
Tahawwur Rana Extradition and Congress Controversy
On April 10, 2025, Tahawwur Rana was extradited to Bharat from the U.S., marking a significant achievement for Bharat’s counter-terrorism efforts. While this was accomplished under the BJP government, Congress claimed credit, citing their prior diplomatic groundwork. Critics argue that Congress should instead address its record of releasing terrorists during its tenure, which has had severe consequences for national security.
Seven Key Instances of Terrorist Releases
1. Release of 25 Terrorists Under UPA (2010)
- Date: May 28, 2010
- Number Released: 25
- Reason: Goodwill gesture toward Pakistan
The UPA government freed 25 terrorists from groups like Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT), Hizb-ul-Mujahideen, and Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM). Among them was Shahid Latif, who later led JeM operations in Bharat and masterminded the Pathankot airbase attack in 2016. This decision has been criticized for emboldening terror networks and costing Bharat dearly in terms of security.
2. Release of Convicts in Coimbatore Blasts by Tamil Nadu Government (2009)
- Date: September 15, 2009
- Number Released: 9
- Reason: Grant remission to mark DMK founder C.N. Annadurai’s birth centenary
Nine convicts involved in the February 14, 1998 Coimbatore serial blasts were released by the Tamil Nadu government. The blasts had killed 58 people during BJP leader L.K. Advani’s election rally. This decision sparked outrage as it was seen as prioritizing political symbolism over justice.
3. Kerala Assembly’s Plea for Abdul Nazer Madhani’s Parole (2006)
- Date: March 15, 2006
- Reason: Humanitarian appeal
The Kerala Assembly passed a resolution requesting parole for Abdul Nazer Madhani, accused in the Coimbatore blasts case. Madhani was later implicated in the Bangalore bomb blasts during an IPL game in 2008. This instance highlighted how political considerations sometimes overshadowed security concerns.
4. Release of Militants Amid Hazratbal Shrine Siege (1993)
- Date: October 1993
- Number Released: 60
- Reason: Prevent violence ahead of elections
During President’s rule in Jammu & Kashmir under Congress-led governance, militants were released to defuse tensions surrounding the Hazratbal Shrine siege. While intended to prevent violence before state elections, this move enabled many militants to regroup and resume activities against Bharat.
5. Rubaiya Sayeed Kidnapping and Exchange (1989)
- Date: December 8, 1989
- Number Released: 5
- Reason: Exchange for Rubaiya Sayeed
Five terrorists were freed in exchange for Rubaiya Sayeed, daughter of Union Home Minister Mufti Mohammad Sayeed, who was kidnapped by militants in Srinagar. This incident marked a turning point in Kashmir insurgency and set a precedent for negotiating with terrorists.
6. Farooq Abdullah Government’s Release of ISI-Trained Terrorists (1989)
- Date: July–December 1989
- Number Released: 70
Under Farooq Abdullah’s government in Jammu & Kashmir, approximately 70 ISI-trained terrorists were arrested but subsequently released. These individuals later became prominent figures in terror activities against Bharat with Pakistan’s support.
7. Samajwadi Party’s Attempt to Withdraw Terror Cases (2013)
- Date: 2013
- Number Involved: Cases against 14 terrorists
- Reason: Poll manifesto promise
The Akhilesh Yadav-led Samajwadi Party attempted to withdraw terror cases as part of its election promises. However, this move was blocked by the Allahabad High Court after public outcry.
Consequences of These Releases
- Strengthened terror networks as many released individuals resumed their roles in militant organizations.
- Major attacks like the Pathankot airbase attack (2016) and Bangalore IPL bomb blasts (2008) were linked to individuals freed during these incidents.
- Erosion of Bharat’s credibility in counter-terrorism policies due to perceived appeasement strategies.
The Imperative of Hindutva in Safeguarding Hindu Civilization
The historical pattern of appeasement and release of terrorists, as evidenced by the actions of governments now comprising the I.N.D.I alliance, underscores a grave and persistent threat to Hindu civilization. The release of these individuals, often justified under the guise of political expediency or misguided goodwill, has directly contributed to the resurgence of extremist elements and the perpetration of heinous acts against innocent Hindus.
From a Hindutva perspective, these actions represent a profound betrayal of Dharma and a failure to protect the sanctity of Bharat Mata. The principles of Hindutva call for a firm and unwavering commitment to the security and integrity of the nation, with the understanding that any compromise with those who seek to undermine Hindu values is a dangerous gamble with potentially catastrophic consequences. The Hindu community must recognize that the defense of its civilization requires eternal vigilance, and a proactive stance against forces that threaten its very existence.
Looking ahead, it is imperative that future administrations prioritize the safety and security of Hindus by enacting stringent counter-terrorism measures, strengthening intelligence capabilities, and ensuring that those who perpetrate violence against the nation are brought to swift and decisive justice. Furthermore, there must be a concerted effort to promote Hindu unity, foster a sense of national pride, and instill in the younger generation a deep appreciation for the rich cultural heritage and spiritual traditions of Hindu civilization. Only through such comprehensive and sustained efforts can we safeguard the future of Bharat and ensure the continued flourishing of Hindu Dharma for generations to come.
Conclusion
The release or attempted release of approximately 169 terrorists between 1989 and 2013 under governments now part of the I.N.D.I alliance underscores a troubling pattern of prioritizing short-term political gains over long-term security interests. While Congress claims credit for Tahawwur Rana’s extradition, critics argue that its legacy of compromising national security through such releases deserves scrutiny. These decisions have had far-reaching consequences that continue to impact Bharat’s fight against terrorism today.
This article is based on the report “169 Terrorists Released Under I.N.D.I Alliance: (1989-2013),” which can be found here.
