National Anti-Terrorism Day 2024: Historical significance and the Rajiv Gandhi connection

In 1991, a woman approached Rajiv Gandhi, touched his feet and blew a belt of RDX during a Congress campaign. She, Rajiv and few other people surrounding them were killed in the explosion. (Image: Reuters)

Every year, on May 21, India observes National Anti-Terrorism Day. This day is dedicated to raising awareness about the dangers of terrorism and the importance of unity in combating this global menace. It also commemorates the assassination of former Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi, who was killed by a suicide bomber on this day in 1991.

The observance of this day serves as a solemn reminder of the need for vigilance and the collective responsibility to eradicate terrorism in all its forms.

History

National Anti-Terrorism Day was first observed in 1992, a year after the assassination of Rajiv Gandhi. Gandhi, the youngest Prime Minister of India at 40, was a prominent advocate for peace and modernisation. His assassination by the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) was a stark reminder of the devastating impact of terrorism on society.

The suicide bombing assassination occurred during an election rally in Sriperumbudur, Tamil Nadu. The LTTE orchestrated this attack in retaliation for Gandhi's decision to deploy the Indian Peacekeeping Force (IPKF) to Sri Lanka in 1987. The IPKF was intended to enforce a peace accord between the Sri Lankan government and the LTTE, but it ultimately led to prolonged conflict and significant casualties.

In the wake of his death, the Indian government established National Anti-Terrorism Day to honour his legacy and to promote awareness about the severe consequences of terrorist activities.

Significance

The National Anti-Terrorism Day serves as a platform to educate the public about the various forms of terrorism and their far-reaching impacts on human lives, economic stability, and social harmony.

The day is marked by a range of activities, including debates, discussions, and educational programs in schools and colleges. These initiatives aim to instill a sense of responsibility among the younger generation to contribute to the fight against terrorism.

Furthermore, government officials, security forces, and civil society organisations participate in various events to reinforce the importance of unity and resilience. The observance of this day also involves the administration of a pledge, wherein individuals commit to oppose all forms of terrorism and violence.

This pledge is a reaffirmation of the collective resolve to safeguard the nation from terrorist threats.