Commemorating 15 years since the 2008 Mumbai terror attacks on November 26, 2023, it’s essential to honor not just the tragedy but also the valiant individuals who saved countless lives during the Taj hotel siege.
November 26, 2023, marks the 15th anniversary of the dreadful 26/11 terror attack in Mumbai, where 166 lives were lost and over 300 were injured due to coordinated attacks by 10 terrorists from Pakistan across various parts of the city.
While the Indian Army and Mumbai Police successfully eliminated the Pakistani terrorists, leaving one captured, the Taj Palace Hotel, Oberoi Trident, Nariman House, and other locations in Mumbai endured indelible terror.
Despite the lasting wounds from the 26/11 attacks, let’s recognize the heroes who risked their lives to save others in Mumbai.
Heroes of the 26/11 Terror Attacks:
1. Tukaram Omble (Assistant Sub Inspector – Mumbai Police): Despite being shot over 40 times on duty, Omble singlehandedly apprehended Lashkar terrorist Ajmal Kasab, unveiling crucial details about Pakistan’s terror plan.
2. Major Sandeep Unnikrishnan (Indian Army – National Security Guard): Part of the elite NSG unit, Unnikrishnan played a vital role in neutralizing terrorists at the Taj Palace Hotel. Sacrificing his life, he saved over 50 hostages during the intense gunfight.
3. Mallika Jagad (Banquet Manager – Taj Palace Hotel): During the attacks, Jagad, the banquet manager, directed guests to safety, ensuring their protection by having them hide under tables. By separating spouses, she minimized the risk of entire families being harmed, leading 50 guests to safety without casualties.
4. Karambir Singh Kang (General Manager – Taj Mumbai): Kang, the general manager, returned to the hotel upon learning of the attacks. Despite being gunned down, he guided evacuations, saving hundreds. His wife and son also tragically lost their lives in the attacks.
5. Thomas Varghese (Senior Waiter – Taj’s Japanese Restaurant Wasabi): Varghese, a senior waiter, protected guests by instructing them to crouch down upon hearing gunshots. Despite being the last to leave the restaurant, he guided the evacuation, sacrificing himself to save others.
6. Hemant Karkare
The former Chief of Maharashtra’s Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS) was martyred near Cama Hospital during the 26/11 attack. Prior to leading the ATS, he had served in RAW and at the Indian mission in Austria. Alongside senior police officials, Karkare lost his life when terrorists attacked their Toyota Qualis, leaving a lasting mark on Mumbai’s tragic day.
7. Ashok Kamte
Ashok Kamte, Mumbai’s Additional Commissioner of Police (Eastern) and a former Army officer, fearlessly confronted criminals despite pressure from higher-ups. Seated in the front row of a police SUV, he was martyred and posthumously awarded the Ashok Chakra.
8. Vijay Salaskar
Vijay Salaskar, a renowned encounter specialist, credited with eliminating 80 criminals, was martyred by Ajmal Kasab in the 26/11 attack while driving with Karkare and Kamte. Posthumously awarded the Ashok Chakra, Salaskar’s courage remains etched in memory.
On this anniversary, let’s not just remember the darkness but also the resilience and bravery that emerged in the face of adversity. In the shadows of this inhuman and brutal attack, countless unsung heroes and soldiers gave their lives. As we reflect, let us neither forget nor forgive, ensuring their sacrifice remains etched in our collective memory.
Jai Hind!
