National Anti-Terrorism Day 2025: Why It Is Observed On May 21? – News18

Last Updated:May 21, 2025, 07:20 IST

National Anti-Terrorism Day commemorates the death anniversary of former Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi, who was assassinated on May 21, 1991, at Sriperumbudur.

National Anti-Terrorism Day 2025: In a bid to aware the youth about terrorism and the cult of violence, the National Anti-Terrorism Day is observed on May 21 every year. The day also commemorates the death anniversary of former Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi, who was assassinated on May 21, 1991, at Sriperumbudur village near Madras, now Chennai.

Following his demise, the Anti-Terrorism Day was established by the VP Singh government in memory of Rajiv Gandhi and to educate people about the adverse effects of terrorism and violence in society. Read along to know more about the history of Anti-Terrorism Day and its significance.

National Anti-Terrorism Day 2025: History

After the death of Indira Gandhi on October 31, 1984, her eldest son, Rajiv Gandhi, was elected as India’s Prime Minister from 1984 to 1989. During his government, Gandhi had sent Indian peacekeeping forces to Sri Lanka to restore peace in the country, only to be criticised widely.

It also caused animosity toward the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE), who are believed to be behind Gandhi’s assassination during an election campaign.

He was killed by a suicide bomber from the Sri Lankan separatist group, leaving India in a state of shock, also paving the way for a major shift in India’s counter-terrorism policy.

In the aftermath of Gandhi’s demise, the government of India decided to observe May 21 as National Anti-Terrorism Day to honour the late Prime Minister and also educate the citizens about fighting against terrorism.

National Anti-Terrorism Day 2025: Significance

With India constantly being in a tense situation, especially in the wake of the recent border conflicts with Pakistan, it has become quite significant to spread the message of Anti-Terrorism Day. It not only raises awareness about the dangers of terrorism but also emphasises the need to uphold peace, harmony, and unity in the country.

Additionally, the day also offers an opportunity to reflect on the sacrifices made by the victims of terrorism and their families. In India, Anti-Terrorism Day is marked with a variety of activities such as sporting events, parades, cultural programmes, and rallies organised by both the government as well as private sector organisations.

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