'India Suffered Scourge Of Terrorism For Decades': Hardeep Puri In Ireland On 40 Years Of Kanishka Bombing
India joined Ireland and Canada in the commemoration of the 40th anniversary of the Air India Flight 182 (Kanishka) bombing tragedy in Ahakista, Ireland. A delegation led by Union Minister Hardeep Singh Puri visited Ireland, where the minister called for global unity against the persistent threat of terrorism.
Standing before a gathering of dignitaries, victims' families, and first responders, Minister Puri recalled the harrowing events of June 23, 1985, when a bomb planted by terrorists based in Canada brought down Air India Flight 182, claiming the lives of all 329 passengers and crew, including more than 80 children.
Puri emphasised that this was not a random accident, but a “deliberate, heinous act carried out by fringe elements seeking to divide India.”
“The world needs to come together—not just in moments of shared mourning, but through sustained, collective action to defeat terrorism,” Puri urged as he addressed the gathering.
Minister Puri reminded attendees that terrorism remains a pressing global challenge. He cited India’s long-standing struggle against terror, from Jammu & Kashmir to Punjab and Mumbai, and pointed to out how terrorism-related deaths worldwide rose by 22 percent in 2024.
“Our people (India) have endured bombings, assassinations, and atrocities time and again,” he said.
India Calls On Canada To Join Fight Against Terrorism
Minister Puri then called on Canada to join India in countering terrorism. He described the nation as a “valued partner and friend,” bound to India by vibrant cultural and economic ties as well as shared democratic values.
He called for deeper cooperation between the two countries, advocating for enhanced intelligence sharing, counter-radicalisation initiatives, and robust measures to disrupt terror financing. “India stands ready to do more. Our security agencies, intelligence apparatus, and diplomatic channels are fully committed to partnering with the world to ensure that such tragedies are never repeated,” he affirmed.
Minister Puri expressed heartfelt thanks to the people of Ahakista and the Irish government for their compassion in the aftermath of the 1985 bombing. He recalled how local residents opened their homes and hearts to grieving families in a gesture of humanity that continues to inspire four decades later.
He further said that the bond forged in tragedy has since blossomed into a thriving partnership between India and Ireland, with strong bilateral ties and trade reaching nearly $16 billion in 2023.
As the ceremony drew to a close, Puri reiterated India’s unwavering commitment to honouring the memory of the victims by striving for global peace and security. “Let today’s commemoration send a united message—those who spread hate and terror will never prevail over humanity, democracy, and friendship,” he declared.
The ceremony was attended by Irish Prime Minister Micheál Martin, Canadian Minister of Public Safety Gary Anandasangaree, local Irish officials, first responders, and families of victims, all coming together in solemn remembrance.
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