Remembering 26/11 – 16 Years Since the Mumbai Terror Attacks

November 26, 2008: Terror struck one of the world’s most happening financial capitals when Mumbai, India, saw some of the deadliest terrorist attacks in history.

The Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) carried out the 26/11 attacks on Pakistan’s soil, which left an indelible mark on the city and worldwide. Sixteen years later, we remember the bravery, the loss, and the resilience of those affected.

The first attacks started on the night of November 26, 2008, with ten terrorists landing at the seaside in Mumbai, well armed. Within a matter of few hours, they attacked some of the high-profile targets, including the Taj Mahal Palace Hotel, Oberoi Trident Hotel, Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus railway station, and Nariman House, wreaking havoc until nearly four days with taking hostage and intense gun battles with security forces.

The 26/11 attacks claimed the lives of 166 people, including 18 security personnel, and left over 300 injured.

The attacks were on Indians and foreigners- Americans, Israelis, citizens of other nations, to name a few-and intended to hit at the heart of India’s economic and cultural hubs.

In the face of terror, numerous heroes came forth. The Mumbai Police, the National Security Guard (NSG), and other security forces showed great amounts of bravery, which would eventually neutralize the terrorists.

These officers Sanjay Salaskar, Hemant Karkare, and Ashok Kamte-are still remembered today for their courageous and ultimate sacrifices. The lone survivor, Ajmal Kasab, was caught alive, and from him and his handlers, were facts about the attackers gathered.

The global protests against 26/11 attacks obviously reflected the condemnation with which the international community condemned such monstrous attacks.

Countries all over the world were also voicing their solidarity with India and the dastardly attacks ensured that India’s anti-terrorism machinery was changed completely. The attack even spelled out the criticality of international collaboration against terrorism.

Every year, on the anniversary of the attacks, tributes are paid to the heroes of 26/11, who were mercilessly killed by these terrorists.
Memorial services are held at the site of the attacks and floral tributes are offered at the martyrs’ memorial.

Maharashtra Governor C.P. Radhakrishnan, Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, and other political leaders paid their tributes to the martyrs at the Mumbai Police Headquarters this year.

The 26/11 attacks were a wake-up call to the nation and the world as a whole. They brought out major vulnerabilities in security and emergency response systems. Thus, there has been rapid change in various connected areas. Some of the measures include more effective intelligence sharing, enhancement of coastal security, and the setting up of the NIA.

Sixteen years on, the memories of 26/11 remain etched in the collective consciousness of Mumbai and the world. The resilience and spirit of the people of Mumbai, who stood united in the face of terror, continue to inspire. As we remember the victims and honor the heroes, we also reaffirm our commitment to fighting terrorism and ensuring a safer world for future generations.