Bharat Express CMD Upendrra Rai Recalls Narrow Escape During 26/11 Attacks; Calls Rana’s Extradition A Strategic Milestone

Bharat Express CMD Upendrra Rai recently shared his harrowing personal experience during the 26/11 Mumbai terror attacks, revealing how a last-minute decision saved his life.

CMD Upendrra Rai, who was reporting for Star News at the time, had been present at the Oberoi Hotel on the day of the attacks but left just 30 minutes before the terrorists struck.

He recounted meeting Reliance executive Sandeep Tandon at the Velvetier Club inside the Oberoi.

“I refused food and left early. That decision changed everything,” he said.

Within moments of his departure, chaos unfolded as terrorists launched their brutal assault.

Reporting Amidst Fear And Fire

Despite the trauma, CMD Upendrra Rai continued his journalistic duty over the next three days, reporting from key attack sites, including the Oberoi, Taj Hotel, Gateway of India, and Leopold Café.

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He described the environment as charged with ‘fear and sensation’, a sentiment felt across the city as violence gripped Mumbai.

A Diplomatic Victory: Rana’s Extradition

Transitioning to recent developments, CMD Upendrra Rai hailed the extradition of Tahawwur Rana, a key accused in the 26/11 case, to India as a major diplomatic and strategic success.

“This is the biggest strategic victory so far,” CMD Upendrra Rai stated, praising Home Minister Amit Shah and Prime Minister Narendra Modi for their leadership.

He highlighted Shah’s direct involvement, noting that the Home Minister personally oversaw the case while Indian agencies worked diligently to compile robust evidence.

International Cooperation In Counterterrorism

CMD Upendrra Rai also acknowledged the crucial role played by US agencies during the original investigation.

“American intelligence had informed us about the terrorists’ satellite phone communications,” he said.

This cooperation allowed the National Investigation Agency (NIA) to build a strong case through multiple visits to the US.

“The extradition is not only a result of our agencies’ hard work but also a reflection of the strong Indo-US ties,” he added. “Terrorists now know they can’t hide forever.”

India’s Policy Shift On Terrorism

Reflecting on India’s counterterrorism stance, CMD Upendrra Rai emphasized the transformative changes since the 26/11 attacks.

“Before 2014, we lived in constant fear. I didn’t even let my family go to markets like Lajpat Nagar,” he recalled.

“Now, with improved intelligence, increased manpower, and modern equipment, bomb blasts have virtually disappeared.”

He credited the current government for adopting a zero-tolerance policy towards terrorism and ensuring better preparedness.

The Media’s Role And Rana’s Interrogation

Speaking on the media’s responsibility, CMD Upendrra Rai urged journalists to prioritize facts over sensationalism.

“Our job is to inform and awaken the public, not dramatize. Rana’s extradition should be seen as a patriotic moment,” he said.

Addressing concerns over sleeper cells, CMD Upendrra Rai said their influence might have waned but cautioned that Rana’s interrogation could still reveal significant truths.

“He might expose white-collar collaborators or reveal the full extent of the plot. The truth must come out now.”

Then vs Now: A Stark Contrast In Preparedness

Finally, CMD Upendrra Rai contrasted the sluggish response in 2008 with today’s improved readiness.

“It took 48 hours for NSG commandos to reach Mumbai back then. That delay exposed how unprepared we were,” he said.

“Today, things are vastly different. India is better equipped and far more vigilant.”

In sharing his memories and insights, CMD Upendrra Rai not only relived one of the darkest chapters in India’s recent history but also highlighted the country’s progress in counterterrorism and the ongoing quest for justice.