Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in his monthly radio address ‘Mann Ki Baat,’ paid homage to the victims of the 2008 Mumbai terror attacks, marking the day as India’s most heinous terrorist assault. Reflecting on the tragic events of November 26, PM Modi emphasized the nation’s resilience in the face of adversity and its determination to confront terrorism.
“November 26 is a day etched in our memory, witnessing the most heinous terrorist attack in our nation’s history. Mumbai was shaken, and the entire country stood in solidarity. Yet, India’s strength prevailed, and today, we confront terrorism with unwavering courage,” stated PM Modi.
The 2008 attacks orchestrated by ten heavily armed Pakistani terrorists targeted multiple locations across Mumbai, including the Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus railway station, Taj Mahal Palace Hotel, Oberoi Trident Hotel, and Nariman House Jewish community center. The coordinated assaults resulted in the loss of 166 lives, including 18 security personnel, and left hundreds injured. The destruction and financial losses incurred were staggering.
Among the tragic casualties were revered figures like the then Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS) chief Hemant Karkare, Army Major Sandeep Unnikrishnan, Mumbai’s additional police commissioner Ashok Kamte, and senior police inspector Vijay Salaskar, remembered for their valor and sacrifice.
Security forces, in a display of bravery, neutralized nine of the ten terrorists during the attacks. The lone surviving assailant, Ajmal Kasab, was apprehended and subsequently executed on November 21, 2012.
President Droupadi Murmu also commemorated the victims of the Mumbai attacks, urging the nation to renew its commitment to combating terrorism. “We honor the memory of the brave souls lost in the 26/11 Mumbai terror attacks. Let us stand by their families and reiterate our determination to fight terrorism in all its forms,” expressed President Murmu.
The tribute to the Mumbai attack victims underscores India’s remembrance of the tragic events and its steadfast commitment to eradicating terrorism from its soil.
Sources By Agencies
