26/11 anniversary: President Kovind vows to make India safer
What's the story
Today, India is remembering the horror of terrorism that descended upon us on 26 November 2008, commonly known as 26/11.
On the ninth anniversary of the attacks, President Ram Nath Kovind paid his respect to the victims through a tweet.
He pledged to fight against terrorism and make Indian citizens safer.
Additionally, the President marked his gratitude to soldiers who protect our motherland.
What?
What are the 26/11 attacks?
26/11 refers to a series of 12 shooting/bombing attacks which took place across various locations in Mumbai on 26 November 2008.
Planned and executed by Lashkar-e-Taiba, the militants struck prime locations within the city, including the Chhatrapati Shiivaji Terminus, the Leopold Cafe and the Taj Palace & Tower.
The attacks which lasted for 3 days claimed at least 164 lives and drew global condemnation.
Twitter Post
Kovind pays tribute to 26/11 victims and security personnel
On the ninth anniversary of the Mumbai terror attacks, we mourn with the families that lost their dear ones. And we recall with gratitude the security personnel who gave their lives in the battle against evil #PresidentKovind
— President of India (@rashtrapatibhvn) November 26, 2017
Conclusion
The larger picture
Pakistan released Lashkar-e-Taiba chief and 26/11 mastermind Hafiz Saeed from house-arrest merely 3 days before the 9th anniversary of the attacks.
While this may/may not be coincidental, fact remains that justice remains a distant dream for the 26/11 victims and their families.
Moreover, Pakistan continues to use terror to target India.
Is it realistic for Kovind to keep his promises in this context?