India honors 2001 parliament attack martyrs as leaders pay tribute to brave forces

Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation Amit Shah on Friday paid tributes to the security personnel who laid down their lives while foiling the terrorist attack on the Indian Parliament on December 13, 2001.

Marking the anniversary of the attack, Shah recalled the indomitable courage and valour displayed by India’s security forces when five heavily armed terrorists attempted to storm the Parliament House complex. The attackers were neutralised in a fierce gun battle by personnel of the Parliament Security Service, Delhi Police, CRPF and other forces, preventing a major assault on the symbol of India’s democracy. Nine people, including security personnel, were martyred in the line of duty.

In a post on X, Shah said the day served as a reminder of the supreme sacrifice made by the security forces in defending the “temple of the world’s largest democracy” and said the nation would forever remain indebted to the brave personnel who attained martyrdom while giving a befitting reply to the terrorists.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Vice President C.P. Radhakrishnan and other parliamentarians paid floral tributes outside the Parliament premises, observing a moment of silence in memory of the fallen heroes. Leaders from both ruling and opposition benches, including Congress leaders Sonia Gandhi and Rahul Gandhi, also offered homage to the martyrs.

President Droupadi Murmu saluted the “courageous heroes” who laid down their lives protecting the Parliament and reaffirmed the nation’s commitment to fight terrorism in all its forms. Senior leaders like Union Minister Nitin Gadkari and Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath also paid tribute, underlining the enduring legacy of sacrifice and the nation’s gratitude towards the brave personnel.

Officials said the commemoration reflects the government’s zero-tolerance policy towards terrorism and reinforces India’s collective resolve to safeguard its democratic institutions. Observing December 13 every year also aims to honour the sacrifices of security forces, boost their morale, and inspire greater public respect for those who protect the nation.

The 2001 attack triggered nationwide shock and led to sweeping changes in security arrangements across vital installations. The remembrance of the martyrs continues to serve as a deterrent to hostile elements and a reminder of the cost paid to protect India’s sovereignty and democratic values.