Leaders Commemorate 2001 Parliament Attack Victims in India

NEW DELHI: On 13 December 2025, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and other prominent leaders gathered to honour the security personnel who lost their lives in the 2001 Parliament terror attack. The remembrance took place at the Parliament, where Prime Minister Modi, alongside Vice President C P Radhakrishnan and various parliamentarians, paid their respects.

The solemn occasion saw participation from leaders across different political parties. Rahul Gandhi, a Member of Parliament and the Leader of the Opposition, also attended the ceremony to pay tribute to the fallen heroes. Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath called the attack a brutal assault on the nation's sovereignty.

In a post on the social media platform X, President Droupadi Murmu expressed her homage to the security personnel. She wrote, "The nation salutes the courageous heroes who laid down their lives while protecting our Parliament on this day in 2001. Their valour and devotion to duty continue to guide our national spirit. The country remains indebted to them and their families. On this day, we reaffirm India’s commitment to fight terrorism in all its forms."

Prime Minister Modi also shared his thoughts on X, stating, "On this day, our nation remembers those who laid down their lives during the heinous attack on our Parliament in 2001. In the face of grave danger, their courage, alertness and unwavering sense of duty were remarkable. India will forever remain grateful for their supreme sacrifice."

Union Home Minister Amit Shah paid his tribute, reflecting on the bravery of the security forces. He wrote, "Today is a day to once again recall the indomitable valour and courage of our security forces against terrorism, when in the year 2001 they thwarted with their spirit the cowardly terrorist attack on the temple of the world’s largest democracy, our Parliament House. I pay homage to the brave soldiers of our security forces who attained martyrdom while giving a befitting reply to the terrorists."

Union Minister Nitin Gadkari also acknowledged the sacrifices made by the security personnel, stating, "Saluting the brave who laid down their lives on 13 December 2001 to protect the temple of democracy during the terrorist attack on the Parliament House. Their sacrifice for the protection of the nation will always be remembered."

The Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) paid tribute to Constable Kamlesh Kumari of the 88 Battalion, who displayed remarkable courage during the attack. A post on X commemorated her actions, stating, "Due to her courageous actions, all five terrorists were neutralized. During this incident, she sustained serious injuries and ultimately sacrificed her life on the altar of duty. For her indomitable courage and extraordinary bravery, she was posthumously awarded the Ashoka Chakra."

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh also expressed his gratitude, saying, "Remembering and paying heartfelt tributes to the brave security personnel who stood as an unbreakable shield during the cowardly terror attack on Parliament House. They laid down their lives to protect the soul of our democracy."

Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla reflected on the enduring legacy of the fallen heroes, stating, "The valour with which those immortal heroes confronted the terrorists is not only a testament to the fulfilment of duty but also a symbol of India’s indomitable resolve in upholding democratic values and national defence."

On 13 December 2001, five terrorists affiliated with the groups Lashkar-e-Taiba and Jaish-e-Mohammed executed the attack, resulting in the deaths of 14 individuals, primarily security personnel. The attack occurred shortly after Parliament had adjourned, with approximately 100 members still present in the building. Parliament reiterated its commitment to combating terrorism and ensuring national security.