On the 23rd anniversary of the 2001 terrorist attack on the Indian Parliament, President Droupadi Murmu paid heartfelt tributes to the brave souls who sacrificed their lives in defense of the nation's democracy. On this solemn occasion, President Droupadi Murmu shared a tribute on X, honoring the brave martyrs who gave their lives protecting the Indian Parliament on December 13, 2001. She expressed deep gratitude for their courage and sacrifice, emphasizing that their legacy continues to inspire the nation. The President reaffirmed India's unwavering commitment to fighting terrorism, highlighting the unity and resolve of the nation in the face of terror.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, along with other political leaders, including Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar, Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla, Congress leaders Mallikarjun Kharge and Rahul Gandhi, and Union Ministers Amit Shah, JP Nadda, Kiren Rijiju, and others, gathered at the Parliament to honor the martyrs. The tributes also included floral offerings as a mark of respect for those who lost their lives during the horrific attack.

In a message shared on X, Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami acknowledged the bravery of the soldiers who gave their lives during the attack, emphasizing that their sacrifice continues to inspire citizens to serve the nation. 

The tragic incident, which occurred on December 13, 2001, remains etched in the memory of the nation. In the attack, five courageous Delhi Police officers—Jagdish, Matbar, Kamlesh Kumari, Nanak Chand, and Rampal—along with CPWD gardener Om Prakash, and others, laid down their lives to protect the Parliament building from terrorists.
The attack was orchestrated by militants from Pakistan-based terrorist organizations, Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) and Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM), who infiltrated the premises in an attempt to strike a blow against Indian democracy. The attackers infiltrated the premises in a vehicle with fake government stickers and launched a violent assault using AK-47 rifles, grenade launchers, and pistols. However, the courage of security personnel resulted in the elimination of all five terrorists, preventing a catastrophic outcome.

At the time, over 100 prominent politicians were inside the Parliament building. The terrorists attempted to drive their vehicle into the car of the then Vice President, Krishan Kant, but were thwarted by the quick action of the Vice President’s security team, which returned fire and secured the building.

Security agencies later confirmed that Pakistan’s Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) had orchestrated the attack, which escalated tensions between India and Pakistan, eventually leading to the 2001-2002 India-Pakistan standoff.

On this significant day, CISF personnel paid their respects with a formal salute, followed by a moment of silence to honor the martyrs. Leaders also interacted with the families of the brave souls who were lost, acknowledging their sacrifices.

The attack, though tragic, is remembered as a testament to the resilience and courage of those who defended the heart of Indian democracy.