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Prime Minister Narendra Modi has paid homage to the brave individuals who sacrificed their lives during the 2001 Parliament attack. The Prime Minister expressed gratitude for their bravery and dedication, stating that their sacrifice will forever inspire the country.

On December 13, 2001, the Parliament of India became the target of a terrorist attack carried out by Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) and Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM), both Pakistan-based militant groups. The attackers attempted to storm the Parliament complex using a car with fake official labels from the Home Ministry and Parliament.

A day of courage and loss

The incident claimed the lives of five Delhi Police personnel, two Parliament Security Service staff, one CRPF constable, and a gardener. Among the martyrs were Jagdish, Matbar, Kamlesh Kumari, Nanak Chand, and Rampal from the Delhi Police, as well as Om Prakash, Bijender Singh, and Ghanshyam from the Parliament's security team. Deshraj, a gardener with the Central Public Works Department, was also killed.

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On the day of the attack, over 100 individuals, including senior politicians, were inside the building. The attackers, armed with AK-47 rifles, grenade launchers, and pistols, targeted the Vice President's car. Security forces responded immediately, killing the terrorists before they could enter the Parliament chambers.

Tributes on the 23rd anniversary

This year marks the 23rd anniversary of the attack. Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar, Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla, Leader of Opposition Mallikarjun Kharge, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, Union Home Minister Amit Shah, and other political leaders also paid their respects at Parliament. The attack not only tested the resolve of India’s security forces but also led to increased tensions between India and Pakistan.

The nation continues to honor the courage and dedication of the martyrs who protected the symbol of Indian democracy on that fateful day. Their sacrifice remains a reminder of the bravery required to uphold the country’s freedom and safety.