President Droupadi Murmu on Friday honored the memory of the brave individuals who sacrificed their lives during the terrorist attack on the Indian Parliament in 2001. She emphasized the nation’s collective resolve to combat terrorism.
“I pay my humble tribute to the bravehearts who sacrificed their lives defending our Parliament on this day in 2001. Their courage and selfless service continue to inspire us. The nation remains deeply grateful to them and their families. On this day, I reiterate India’s unwavering resolve to combat terrorism. Our nation stands united against the forces of terror,” the President shared on X (formerly Twitter).
Remembering the Heroes
Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami also paid homage, highlighting the inspiration drawn from the valiant soldiers.
“Salutes to the soldiers who sacrificed their lives in the terrorist attack on the democracy, the Indian Parliament. Your devotion to duty, indomitable courage, and supreme sacrifice are proof of your unwavering loyalty to the nation. Your tale of valor will always inspire us to serve the nation,” Dhami stated.
A Day of National Mourning
The attack on December 13, 2001, remains one of the darkest days in Indian history. Five Delhi Police personnel, two Parliament Security Service members, a CRPF constable, and a gardener laid down their lives defending the Parliament. Among the fallen were Assistant Sub-Inspectors Jagdish, Matbar, and Kamlesh Kumari, as well as Head Constables Om Prakash, Bijender Singh, and Ghanshyam.
The assailants, later identified as members of Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) and Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM)—terror groups based in Pakistan—breached the Parliament’s security using a car with forged identity stickers. Equipped with AK-47 rifles, grenade launchers, and pistols, they infiltrated the premises and opened fire.
Courage Amid Chaos
At the time, over 100 individuals, including prominent politicians, were inside the Parliament building. Security personnel quickly neutralized the attackers, preventing further devastation.
The incident strained Indo-Pak relations, leading to the 2001-2002 India-Pakistan standoff. Indian security agencies later confirmed that the attack was orchestrated under the guidance of Pakistan’s Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI).
This solemn anniversary serves as a reminder of the sacrifice made by the nation’s heroes and India’s steadfast commitment to stand united against terror.