Seven years after the devastating 2019 Pulwama terror attack, the nation paused on Friday to remember the 40 CRPF personnel who lost their lives. As tributes poured in at the memorial site in Lethpora, authorities placed Jammu and Kashmir under maximum security alert to prevent any untoward incident.
Across the Valley, the mood was solemn—but the security presence was unmistakably tight.
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Tributes at Lethpora Memorial
Floral tributes were offered at the memorial in Lethpora, where the 40 Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) jawans are honoured. Senior security officials, local leaders and CRPF personnel gathered to pay their respects, laying wreaths and observing moments of silence.
Similar tribute ceremonies were held across the country, with security forces remembering their fallen colleagues in unit headquarters and state capitals.
The attack, which took place on February 14, 2019, remains one of the deadliest terror strikes on Indian security forces in recent years.
Valley on High Alert
Security has been significantly tightened across Jammu and Kashmir. Officials said surveillance and checking have been intensified in urban centres as well as along key transit routes.
In Srinagar, police teams conducted surprise inspections in the commercial hub of Lal Chowk and near the iconic clock tower. Hotels were checked, guest identity documents verified, and vehicles searched as part of precautionary measures.
Joint teams of police and paramilitary forces set up additional “nakas” (checkpoints) across sensitive areas. Random vehicle checks and intensified patrolling were visible throughout the day.
Security was also stepped up along the Jammu-Srinagar National Highway, particularly near the site of the original suicide bombing in Pulwama district.
The 2019 Attack and Its Aftermath
The 2019 Pulwama attack was carried out by the Pakistan-based terror outfit Jaish-e-Mohammed. A suicide bomber rammed an explosives-laden vehicle into a CRPF convoy, killing 40 personnel.
The attack triggered nationwide outrage and led to significant retaliatory action by India, including the Balakot airstrikes later that month. Diplomatic tensions between India and Pakistan sharply escalated in the weeks that followed.
Even seven years later, Pulwama remains a deeply emotional chapter in India’s fight against terrorism.
A Day of Remembrance
While the security apparatus stayed on high alert, the focus remained on honouring sacrifice. Families of the martyrs, fellow officers and citizens across India remembered the courage of the fallen soldiers.
For many, February 14 is no longer just another date on the calendar. It’s a reminder of loss, resilience and the continuing effort to ensure such tragedies are never repeated.
As tributes were offered and security forces stood guard, the message was clear: the memory of Pulwama’s martyrs lives on.
