New Delhi, 13 December (H.S.): On the anniversary of the 2001 terrorist attack on the Indian Parliament, President Droupadi Murmu, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, and Home Minister Amit Shah on Saturday paid solemn tributes to the courageous security personnel who laid down their lives defending the heart of Indian democracy.On December 13, 2001, five terrorists belonging to Jaish-e-Mohammed and Lashkar-e-Taiba stormed the Parliament complex.

The swift and valiant response of Indian security forces thwarted the assault, killing all five terrorists. In the fierce exchange, five Delhi Police personnel, one woman constable, and two security guards sacrificed their lives protecting the institution of democracy.

Paying homage, President Droupadi Murmu wrote on X, “The nation salutes the brave heroes who laid down their lives defending our Parliament on this day in 2001. Their courage and dedication will continue to inspire our national spirit. The country remains forever indebted to them and their families. On this day, we reaffirm India’s resolve to fight terrorism in all its forms.”

Vice President C.P. Radhakrishnan and Prime Minister Narendra Modi also paid their respects, honoring the supreme sacrifice of the martyrs who stood as the first line of defence during the attack.

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh wrote, “I salute the brave security personnel who stood like an unyielding shield during the cowardly terrorist attack on our Parliament. They gave their lives to safeguard the soul of our democracy. Their courage, supreme sacrifice, and devotion to duty will always inspire the nation.”

Home Minister Amit Shah echoed similar sentiments, stating, “Today, we remember the indomitable courage of our security forces who, in 2001, foiled a cowardly terrorist attack on the temple of the world’s largest democracy — our Parliament. I bow to the brave personnel who sacrificed their lives while giving a fitting reply to the attackers. The nation will forever remain indebted to their valour and sacrifice.”

The anniversary serves as a solemn reminder of the heroism and unwavering commitment of those who protected India’s democratic foundations in the face of terror.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar