On Parliament attack anniversary, nation remembers heroes who sacrificed their lives

The country solemnly commemorated the anniversary of the December 13, 2001 terrorist attack on the Parliament House Complex, with top national leaders coming to gather to pay homage to the courageous security personnel who sacrificed their lives defending India’s democracy.

Vice-President and Rajya Sabha Chairman C P Radhakrishnan, Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla, and Prime Minister Narendra Modi led the solemn tribute, joined by Union Ministers, Leader of the Opposition Rahul Gandhi, Deputy Chairman of Rajya Sabha Harivansh, Members of Parliament, former MPs, and other dignitaries. Secretary-Generals Utpal Kumar Singh and P C Mody, along with families of the martyrs, participated in the remembrance.

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Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla delivered a poignant message reaffirming India’s unwavering resolve to fight against terrorism. Sharing his tribute on X, he emphasized that the commemoration was a powerful declaration of the nation’s steadfast commitment to unity, integrity, and sovereignty. “The valour of those immortal heroes is a symbol of duty and India’s indomitable spirit in defending democratic values,” Birla said, expressing gratitude for their sacrifice as a lasting inspiration.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi also paid homage to the martyrs through an X post, recalling the bravery and vigilance of the security personnel during the attack. “India will forever remain grateful for their supreme sacrifice,” he stated.

The presence of Opposition Leader Rahul Gandhi and the ruling establishment highlighted the nation’s unified stance in honouring the martyrs and condemning terrorism.

The attack involved heavily-armed terrorists attempting to storm the Parliament building, but was thwarted by nine heroes at the cost of their own lives, they are:

Jagdish Prasad Yadav and Matbar Singh Negi (Security Assistants, Rajya Sabha Secretariat)

Kamlesh Kumari (Constable, Central Reserve Police Force)

Nanak Chand and Rampal (Assistant Sub-Inspectors, Delhi Police)

Om Prakash, Bijender Singh, and Ghanshyam (Head Constables, Delhi Police)

Deshraj (Gardener, Central Public Works Department)

Among them, Jagdish Prasad Yadav, Matbar Singh Negi, and Kamlesh Kumari were posthumously awarded the Ashok Chakra, India’s highest peacetime gallantry award for their extraordinary bravery. Nanak Chand, Rampal, Om Prakash, Bijender Singh, and Ghanshyam received the Kirti Chakra posthumously.

The nation continues to honour their heroism and sacrifice, ensuring their legacy endures as a beacon of patriotism and courage.