Nation Remembers Pulwama’s 40 Martyrs
On February 14, 2026, India observes the seventh anniversary of the 2019 Pulwama attack, paying solemn tribute to 40 CRPF personnel killed in a JeM suicide bombing.
NEW DELHI- The nation today observed the seventh anniversary of one of its darkest days—the February 14, 2019 Pulwama terror attack that martyred 40 Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) personnel in Jammu and Kashmir’s Pulwama district. The nation united in grief and resolve, marking the occasion as “Black Day” with tributes from leaders, security forces and citizens remembering the jawans who laid down their lives combating cross-border terrorism.
A vehicle-borne IED laden with over 300 kg of explosives into a CRPF convoy on the Jammu-Srinagar National Highway at Lethpora around 3:10 p.m. The massive blast destroyed a bus carrying 40 personnel, killing them instantly and injuring several others. JeM promptly claimed responsibility, making it one of the deadliest attacks on Indian security forces in Kashmir.
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Prime Minister Narendra Modi led the national homage, stating: “Remembering the brave heroes who laid down their lives in Pulwama on this day in 2019. Their devotion, resolve, and service remain etched in our collective consciousness. Every Indian draws strength from their enduring courage.” Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha offered heartfelt tributes, saying the martyrs’ valour continues to inspire the fight against terrorism.
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CRPF headquarters in New Delhi and units across the country held solemn wreath-laying ceremonies. Families of the martyrs received special salutes, while citizens lit candles, changed social media profiles to black and shared messages of remembrance. The 40 bravehearts hailed from diverse states—Uttar Pradesh, Punjab, Haryana, Rajasthan, Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Odisha and others—symbolising India’s unity in sacrifice.
Lest we forget.
On 14 Feb 2019, 40 bravehearts of @crpfindia made the supreme sacrifice in #Pulwama. Their valour remains etched in our hearts forever.
DG Shri @gpsinghips & all Ranks pay solemn tributes to our martyrs. We stand firmly with their families.#NationFirst… pic.twitter.com/mBfbtIhOCq
— 🇮🇳CRPF🇮🇳 (@crpfindia) February 14, 2026
Political leaders across parties joined the remembrance. Opposition figures including Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge and Rahul Gandhi reiterated national solidarity against terror. Memorial events occurred at martyrs’ villages, with schools and colleges holding prayer meetings. In Srinagar and Pulwama, heightened security ensured peaceful observances amid ongoing counter-terror operations.
The attack’s aftermath saw India retaliate with Balakot airstrikes on JeM camps in Pakistan, escalating diplomatic tensions. Seven years later, India reaffirms zero tolerance for terrorism, with enhanced security protocols, advanced surveillance and global cooperation to dismantle terror networks. The Pulwama martyrs’ legacy endures as a call to vigilance, urging sustained commitment to protect the nation they served selflessly.
