Nation Remembers 26/11 Martyrs on 16th Anniversary

New Delhi: President Droupadi Murmu on Wednesday led the nation in paying homage to the security personnel and civilians who lost their lives during the 26/11 Mumbai terror attacks, asserting that India will always remember their “supreme sacrifice.” Her tribute marked the 16th anniversary of the coordinated strikes carried out between November 26 and 29, 2008, by 10 Lashkar-e-Taiba terrorists.

The attacks claimed 166 lives, including 26 foreign nationals and 20 security personnel, while nine terrorists were killed. The lone surviving attacker, Ajmal Kasab, was later executed. In a message on X, President Murmu urged the nation to reaffirm its resolve to combat terrorism “in all forms” and to move forward united toward a stronger, more prosperous India.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah also paid tribute, recalling the “heinous and inhuman acts” committed during the attacks and saluting the bravery of security forces who confronted the terrorists. He reiterated the Modi government’s “zero-tolerance” policy on terrorism, emphasizing that the global community now strongly supports India’s anti-terror campaign.

Union Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan echoed these sentiments, stating that India remains eternally indebted to the courage of its fallen heroes and continues to fight terrorism with determination. Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath also posted a tribute, noting that the nation would never forget the victims’ sacrifice and highlighting “new India’s” united resolve against terrorism.

Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi, honoured both the security personnel and civilians killed in the attacks, stating that their courage and sacrifice will always be remembered. (Agencies)