New Delhi |
Six years ago, on February 14, 2019, India witnessed one of its deadliest terrorist attacks, shaking the nation to its core. A suicide bomber rammed an explosives-laden vehicle into a convoy carrying Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) personnel in Pulwama, Jammu and Kashmir, killing 40 soldiers. The attack, carried out by the Pakistan-based militant group Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM), led to escalating tensions between India and Pakistan, bringing the two nuclear-armed nations dangerously close to war.
What Happened on That Fateful Day?
The convoy, consisting of 78 vehicles carrying over 2,500 CRPF jawans, was moving along the Jammu-Srinagar National Highway when a suicide bomber in a car packed with 300 kg of explosives struck a bus. The impact was catastrophic, leading to an immediate loss of life and nationwide outrage. Jaish-e-Mohammed later claimed responsibility, releasing a video of the attacker as a chilling message.
India’s Response: The Balakot Airstrikes
Determined to send a strong message, India launched an unprecedented military response. On February 26, 2019, the Indian Air Force (IAF) conducted airstrikes on a JeM terror camp in Balakot, Pakistan. This marked the first time since the 1971 war that India had carried out airstrikes beyond the Line of Control (LoC). The strikes were seen as a bold statement against terrorism and a warning to Pakistan.
The following day, on February 27, 2019, Pakistan launched retaliatory airstrikes, leading to an intense dogfight between Indian and Pakistani fighter jets. In the confrontation, Wing Commander Abhinandan Varthaman’s MiG-21 was shot down, and he was captured by Pakistan. His swift release on March 1 was seen as a diplomatic victory for India and a move by Pakistan to de-escalate tensions.
Impact and Aftermath
The Pulwama attack and the subsequent Balakot airstrikes pushed India and Pakistan to the brink of war. It also reshaped India’s counter-terrorism policies, leading to increased security measures, stricter cross-border monitoring, and international diplomatic efforts to blacklist terror groups operating from Pakistan.
In the years that followed, India has continued to strengthen its intelligence networks, border security, and anti-terrorism operations. The attack also led to international pressure on Pakistan to crack down on terrorist organizations operating from its soil.
Six Years Later: Tributes and Reflections
On this sixth anniversary, tributes pour in from across the nation. Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Home Minister Amit Shah, and defense officials have paid their respects to the fallen soldiers, emphasizing that their sacrifice will never be forgotten. Memorial services are being held across the country, and social media is flooded with messages remembering the bravery of the CRPF jawans.
The Pulwama attack remains a painful yet defining moment in India’s fight against terrorism. It serves as a reminder of the cost of national security and the unwavering commitment of India’s armed forces. Even as India moves forward, the lessons from Pulwama continue to shape its defense strategies and global stance on counter-terrorism.
As the nation remembers those who lost their lives, one message stands clear—India will never bow down to terrorism, and the courage of its soldiers will always be honoured.
