Context:
National Anti-Terrorism Day is observed every year on May 21st.
Key points:
- The VP Singh government established National Anti-Terrorism Day.
- The day was created to raise public awareness about the harmful impacts of terrorism and violence on society.
- The day honours the memory of Rajiv Gandhi, the former Prime Minister of India, who was tragically assassinated by a suicide bomber on May 21, 1991.
- The suicide bomber was affiliated with the LTTE (Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam), a militant organization from Sri Lanka.
Significance
- The day aims to highlight the severe repercussions that terrorism has on individuals, communities, and nations.
- The observance stresses the necessity of fostering peace, unity, and security within India and on a global scale.
- Encourages continuous efforts to protect the nation from terrorist threats.
- National Anti-Terrorism Day pays tribute to those who have lost their lives due to terrorism.
- It acknowledges the sacrifices made by individuals in the fight against terrorism.
Public Participation
- Anti-Terrorism Pledge: On this day, government offices, public sector undertakings, and other public institutions participate in taking an anti-terrorism pledge.
- Pledge Content: This collective vow reaffirms their commitment to defending the country’s borders, promoting national unity, and supporting victims of terrorism.
- The pledge also reaffirms commitment to combating terrorism and ensuring the security of the nation.