September 24, 2002: Remembering the Akshardham Terror Attack - 33 Lives Lost, Nation Shaken

On September 24, 2002, India witnessed one of the most horrific terror attacks when two heavily armed terrorists stormed the famous Akshardham Temple in Gandhinagar, Gujarat.

 

 

The terrorists, carrying automatic weapons and grenades, entered the temple complex around 4:45 pm and began indiscriminate firing at devotees and staff. Panic broke out as people ran for cover. The firing and chaos continued through the night, turning the temple into a battlefield.

 

 

By the time the siege ended the next morning, 33 innocent people, including women and children, had lost their lives, and over 80 were injured. The two terrorists were later gunned down after a tough 12-hour operation led by National Security Guard (NSG) commandos, who were specially flown in from Delhi.

 

 

Investigations revealed that the terrorists were linked to a Pakistan-based terror outfit, and the attack was aimed at sparking communal tension in Gujarat.

 

 

The brutal assault on a place of worship drew strong condemnation across India and the world. Leaders called for unity and resilience, as the attack had not only claimed innocent lives but also tried to shake the nation’s peace and harmony.