On National Anti-Terrorism Day, 21 May, let us remember the victims and maintain strict vigilance

*Paromita Das

The day commemorates the death anniversary of former Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi. On May 21, 1991, he was assassinated. Let us learn more about Anti-Terrorism Day, including its history and significance.

In light of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, the Ministry of Health & Family Welfare advises that when organizing a programme for Anti-Terrorism Day 2022, it is critical to follow preventive measures such as maintaining social distance, wearing masks, sanitizing hands, and so on.

The goal of the day is to promote national harmony, reduce terrorism, and foster unity among people of all castes, creeds, and genders. When it comes to terrorism, this day is significant.
The day raised awareness about terrorists’ violence. It will be observed with caution due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The MHA has advised that the “Anti-Terrorism Pledge” may be taken solemnly by officials in their rooms/offices, with the safety of participants and organisers in mind and public gatherings avoided.

Every year on May 21, Anti-Terrorism Day is observed to educate youth about terrorism and its impact on human suffering and lives. This day also raises awareness of an anti-social terrorism act.

Every day, we learn about a terrorist act in the news or on television. Terrorists essentially want to instil fear in the minds of ordinary people.
They kill thousands of people without remorse because they have no conscience.

It is critical to spread the message of humanity and peace. Every year, the Indian government observes Anti-Terrorism Day to emphasize the importance of combating terrorist activities.

Why is Anti-Terrorism Day celebrated on May 21st?

The official declaration of National Anti-Terrorism Day was made on May 21, 1991, following the assassination of India’s seventh Prime Minister, Rajiv Gandhi. He was killed in Tamil Nadu during a terrorist campaign. Then, during the V.P. Singh administration, the center decided to designate May 21st as Anti-Terrorism Day.

On this day, the anti-terrorism pledge is taken in all government offices, public sector undertakings, and other public institutions, etc.

The backstory.

Former Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi traveled to Sriperumbudur, Tamil Nadu, to attend a rally. A woman in front of him identified herself as a member of the terrorist organization Liberation of Tamil Tigers Eelam (LTTE). She was wearing explosives and approached PM, bending down to touch his feet. Suddenly, a bomb exploded, killing PM and approximately 25 people. This is the inland terrorism that has caused fear, and our country has lost PM.
What are the goals of celebrating Anti-Terrorism Day?

– To spread the message of humanity and peace.

– Raise public awareness about these terrorist organizations and how they intend to strike terror.

– To plant a seed of unity among the people in order to promote unity among the people.

– Furthermore, educating and training children will keep them from joining various terrorist organizations.

– Raise awareness in the country about the dangers of terrorism and violence, as well as their harmful effects on people, society, and the entire country.

How is World Anti-Terrorism Day observed?

– The aforementioned objectives are met by organizing debates or discussions on the dangers of terrorism and violence in schools, colleges, and universities.
– Mass education campaigns are held to highlight the negative consequences of terrorism and its aftermath.

– The Central Government and State Governments organize rallies and parades to inform the public about the dangers of terrorism.

– Paying tribute to the late Prime Minister through special marches and gatherings of people to pay their respects to Rajiv Gandhi. People bow their heads and remain silent for two minutes in several schools, colleges, government, and private offices.

The MHA has also suggested that, given the significance and solemnity of the occasion, innovative methods of disseminating anti-terrorism messages via digital and social media platforms be considered.
We must not forget the infamous World Trade Center terrorist attack. The 26/11 Mumbai attack is no exception in this regard. As a result, Anti-Terrorism Day expresses outrage while also showing solidarity with humanity. Terrorism is defined as the act of causing loss of life and fear of death among people through the heinous acts of terrorists. Without a doubt, it is a violation of human rights. As a result, we must band together to eradicate it by spreading love, care, and so on.

It is correct to state that “Terrorists do not follow any religion. They only understand devastation’s language “..