16 years after 26/11: India’s strength and fight against terrorism 26 November 2008 is a day in the history of India that is impossible to forget. It was the day when Mumbai faced one of the worst terrorist attacks ever. These attacks shook not only India but the entire world. This dark chapter of terrorism posed a serious challenge to the security, resilience and unity of the entire country.
16 years after 26/11: Beginning of terror:
10 terrorists of Pakistan-based terrorist organization “Lashkar-e-Taiba” (LeT) infiltrated Mumbai via sea route. The entire incident was a pre-planned conspiracy in which attacks were carried out at several key locations:
- Taj Mahal Palace Hotel
- Oberoi Trident Hotel
- Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus (CST)
- Leopold Cafe
- Nariman House (Jewish Center)
Armed with automatic weapons and hand grenades, the terrorists opened fire indiscriminately and took people hostage. They engaged in a gunfight with security forces for several hours.
Timeline of events
26 November 2008: The attacks began with a gunfight at Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus at around 9:20 pm.
27 and 28 November 2008: Siege and gunfight at Taj Hotel, Oberoi Trident, and Nariman House.
29 November 2008: The operation ended.
166 people were killed in this attack which included 18 security personnel and 26 foreign nationals. And more than 300 people were injured.
Ajmal Kasab: He was a terrorist who was caught alive. Nine terrorists were killed during these attacks but one terrorist named Ajmal Kasab was caught alive. Ajmal Kasab confessed his involvement in the attack and revealed his links with Lashkar-e-Taiba. And he was hanged in 2012.
Plot and route behind the attacks:
These terrorists reached Mumbai by sea from Karachi. And they hijacked an Indian fishing trawler and killed its crew. These terrorists landed at different places near the Gateway of India and launched the attacks.
Improvements in national security
After 26/11, India made major improvements in its security strategies against terrorism.
- National Investigation Agency (NIA): In December 2008, India established the NIA, an agency dedicated to investigating anti-terrorism cases.
- Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA): India amended this act to take action against terrorists and their supporters.
- National Security Guard (NSG): India equipped the commando forces with better training and modern equipment.
Impact and learnings of the attacks
The 26/11 attack exposed the flaws in the country’s security system. With this, India was forced to learn that without a strong and vigilant security structure, such threats are possible in the future.
Remembrances and respect:
Every year on November 26, tribute is paid to those innocent civilians and brave security personnel who sacrificed their lives for the country. This day reminds us how important it is to keep unity in the fight against terrorism. Salute to all those great heroes who showed courage and sacrifice during this terrible attack.
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