Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi recently remembered the 9/11 terrorist attacks in the United States, which occurred 25 years ago. During his monthly 'Mann Ki Baat' program, PM Modi stated that Indians constituted the highest number of victims after Americans in the 2001 attacks. He expressed condolences to the bereaved families on behalf of the Indian citizens. The 9/11 attacks resulted in the loss of 2,977 lives, according to official US figures.
On September 11, 2001, 19 al-Qaeda terrorists hijacked four commercial passenger aircraft, carrying out coordinated attacks against the United States. Two aircraft were flown into the World Trade Center's Twin Towers in New York, while a third struck the Pentagon in Arlington, Virginia. The fourth aircraft crashed into a field near Shanksville, Pennsylvania, after passengers and crew attempted to regain control. PM Modi also recalled his visit to New York in 2014, when he paid homage to the victims.
The recent remarks from PM Modi came after India exercised its right of reply at the UN General Assembly, following Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif's address. Indian diplomat Petal Gahlot referred to the presence of 9/11 mastermind Osama bin Laden in Pakistan. Gahlot stated that the mastermind of the 9-11 terrorist attack was living right on the doorstep of the Pakistani Army's premier academy.
During the same 'Mann Ki Baat' episode, PM Modi also discussed India's experience with terrorism and the 10th anniversary of the 2016 surgical strikes. On September 28-29, 2016, the Indian Army carried out surgical strikes on terrorist hideouts in Pakistan. The surgical strike demonstrated India's counter-terrorism policy and was a decisive response to long-standing pain India had endured due to terrorist attacks.
PM Modi highlighted India's current approach to terrorism, stating that the country pursues a zero-tolerance policy. He recalled the September 13, 2008 serial blasts in Delhi and the subsequent 26/11 Mumbai attacks. In the past, demands for action against Pakistan following terror attacks were often not given due attention; however, India now sends a clear message that terrorists will be met with a befitting response.
The 2016 surgical strikes and India's recent actions against terrorism have demonstrated a new era of decisive action. From the Balakot airstrike to 'Operation Sindoor', India has repeatedly sent a clear message to terrorists. PM Modi's statements reflect India's commitment to counter-terrorism and its efforts to honor the victims of past attacks.
As India marks the 10th anniversary of the surgical strikes, PM Modi's address emphasized the country's resolve to tackle terrorism. The Prime Minister's monthly program, 'Mann Ki Baat', provides a platform for discussing India's achievements and the positive efforts of its citizens. The recent episode highlighted India's experiences with terrorism and its ongoing efforts to promote peace and security.
Key points
- Indians constituted the highest number of victims after Americans in the 9/11 attacks.
- PM Modi expressed condolences to the bereaved families on behalf of Indian citizens.
- India pursues a zero-tolerance policy against terrorism.
