I agree, the safest way would be to push the tabs out from the inside. But for me, I just could not get enough leverage on the tabs in that tight space. And as 1loud pointed out, I have tender
hands.
The tabs are not the positive locking types, like say on a wiring harness. It is just held in there by friction. IMO, it is safe to pull, as long as you take care to pull it forward straight out, without tilting forward or twisting in any way. So gotta pull out grabbing the outboard bottom edge as well, which is kinda sharp.
For me, a last ditch, resigned to break it, desperation, sudden jerk, did the trick. Popped out in one firm tug.
Anyway, knowing the position and direction of the tab, helped me figure out which way to pull.
So, Thanks all for the tips.
I got my cracked head lamp replaced.