Remembering the Deadly 2001 Indian Parliament Attack: A Day of Infamy

Today marks the 22nd anniversary of the heinous attack on the Indian Parliament by the Jaish-e-Mohammed, a Pakistani terror group. This audacious act of violence sent shockwaves through the nation as lawmakers and security personnel found themselves in the crosshairs of militants armed with AK-47 rifles, grenade launchers, and handguns. Tragically, nine lives were lost, and 18 others, including police and Parliament security personnel, were injured.

On this solemn occasion, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Home Minister Amit Shah, Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla, and other leaders gathered to pay tribute to the martyrs of the 2001 Parliament attack, ensuring that the sacrifices made that day are never forgotten.

Unveiling 10 Facts about the Parliament Attack:

Let’s delve into ten crucial facts that shed light on the tragic events that unfolded during the 2001 attack:

1. Five militants cunningly drove a white Ambassador, adorned with counterfeit Home Ministry and Parliament labels, into the House of Parliament. Although both the Lok Sabha and the Rajya Sabha were adjourned at the time, over a hundred people, including political leaders, were present inside.
2. Armed with AK-47 rifles, grenade launchers, pistols, and handguns, the militants managed to breach successive security cordons. In a twist of fate, their vehicle collided with a car in the Vice President’s cavalcade, drawing attention to their presence.
3. After crashing, the terrorists emerged from their vehicle and began firing indiscriminately, tragically claiming the life of Kamlesh Kumari, a woman CRPF constable.
4. While the MPs escaped unharmed, the terrorists succeeded in killing nine individuals, predominantly security personnel who valiantly stood their ground.
5. In a heroic exchange of fire, the police managed to neutralize all five terrorists. One of them met his demise when the suicide vest he was wearing detonated following the gunshot wounds.
6. The slain terrorists were identified as Hamza, Haider alias Tufail, Rana, Ranvijay, and Mohammed, all affiliated with the Jaish-e-Mohammed.
7. Initially, the Indian government also implicated Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) in the attack. However, the LeT vehemently denied any involvement.
8. The investigation into the attack was spearheaded by the Delhi Police’s Special Cell, established in 1986 to proactively combat terrorism by preventing, identifying, and investigating such incidents.
9. Afzal Guru and his cousin Shaukat Hussain Guru emerged as the primary suspects in the Parliament attack. In 2013, Afzal Guru was convicted and subsequently executed in Tihar Jail.
10. The aftermath of the Parliament attack witnessed heightened tensions between Indian and Pakistani military forces in 2001 and 2002. This led to a massive standoff along the Line of Control (LoC), exacerbating the conflict in the volatile Kashmir Valley region.

As we reflect on this dark chapter in India’s history, it serves as a reminder of the unwavering resilience and bravery exhibited by the nation’s security forces. The 2001 Parliament attack stands as a testament to the resolve of the Indian people to combat terrorism and preserve the sanctity of democratic institutions.