New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi, along with political leaders from across the spectrum, on Saturday paid heartfelt tributes to the security personnel who made the supreme sacrifice defending the Parliament of India during the cowardly terrorist attack on December 13, 2001.

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Marking the 24th anniversary of the audacious assault on the temple of democracy, a solemn ceremony was held at the Parliament complex, where leaders reaffirmed the nation’s unwavering resolve to combat terrorism.

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Leaders Unite in Homage

Prime Minister Modi led the nation in remembrance, placing floral tributes at the photographs of the brave hearts who fell while thwarting the terrorists’ plans. He was joined by Vice President and Rajya Sabha Chairman C. P. Radhakrishnan, Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi, Congress Parliamentary Party Chairperson Sonia Gandhi, and numerous other senior parliamentarians and Union Ministers. The presence of leaders from both the ruling National Democratic Alliance (NDA) and the opposition underscored the national unity in honouring the martyrs.

The ceremony included a salute by CISF personnel and a moment of silence to commemorate the sacrifice.

PM Modi’s Tribute

In a post on social media platform X, Prime Minister Modi paid his respects, stating:

“On this day, our nation remembers those who laid down their lives during the heinous attack on our Parliament in 2001. In the face of grave danger, their courage, alertness and unwavering sense of duty were remarkable. India will forever remain grateful for their supreme sacrifice. Their valour and devotion to duty continue to guide our national spirit. The country remains indebted to them and their families.”

Other dignitaries, including Union Home Minister Amit Shah, also posted tributes, recalling the indomitable courage of the security forces who repelled the attack.

The Martyrs Who Defended Democracy

The attack resulted in the loss of nine lives among the security and other personnel who heroically fought the heavily armed terrorists. The nation specifically remembers:

• Constable Kamlesh Kumari Yadav (CRPF): The first personnel to spot the militants and raise the alarm, whose bravery was instrumental in preventing a larger catastrophe. She was posthumously awarded the Ashoka Chakra.

• Five Delhi Police personnel: ASI Nanak Chand, ASI Rampal, Head Constable Om Prakash, Head Constable Ghanshyam, and Constable Jagdish Prasad Yadav.

• Two Parliament Security Service personnel: Jagdish Prasd Yadav and Matbar Singh.

• Shri Desh Raj: A gardener from the CPWD.

Remembering the Attack

The terrorist attack, carried out by five militants linked to Pakistan-based groups Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) and Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM), occurred on December 13, 2001. The gunmen stormed the Parliament complex shortly after both Houses had been adjourned, with approximately 100 members of Parliament and officials still inside.

The quick and courageous response of the security personnel prevented the terrorists from entering the main Parliament building, ultimately neutralizing all five attackers in the forecourt and averting a massive disaster that was intended to strike at the heart of Indian democracy.

The collective tribute serves as a potent message: India remains resolute against all forms of terrorism, and the supreme sacrifice of its brave sons and daughters will never be forgotten.