Pulwama Attack 2026: Nation Remembers 40 CRPF Martyrs on 7th Anniversary
NATIONAL – Seven years after one of the deadliest terrorist attacks on India's security forces, the nation on Saturday paid solemn tributes to the 40 Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) personnel who lost their lives in the 2019 Pulwama suicide bombing. As the country observes the seventh anniversary, security has been tightened across Jammu and Kashmir, and tributes are pouring in from all corners of India .
The attack, which took place on February 14, 2019, remains a defining moment in India's fight against terrorism. An explosive-laden vehicle rammed into a CRPF convoy at Lethpora in Pulwama district, along the Srinagar-Jammu national highway, killing 40 personnel on the spot and injuring several others .
For India, February 14 is observed as a "Black Day" in remembrance of the brave soldiers who made the supreme sacrifice in the line of duty, even as the world celebrates Valentine's Day .
Security Tightened Across Jammu and Kashmir
Ahead of the anniversary, security forces have been placed on high alert across Jammu and Kashmir following intelligence inputs suggesting possible terrorist conspiracies . On Friday, teams of the Jammu and Kashmir Police conducted surprise checking and search operations in the commercial hub of Lal Chowk in Srinagar .
Officials stated that searches were carried out in hotels, with personnel checking rooms and verifying the identification cards of guests . The intensified checking is part of comprehensive security measures implemented ahead of the February 14 anniversary .
According to security agency sources, forces have been instructed to maintain special vigilance around vital installations, crowded markets, and security force convoys . Additional checkpoints have been established in sensitive locations across both Jammu and Kashmir divisions, and counter-insurgency operations continue in districts including Kishtwar, Udhampur, and Kathua .
Tributes Pour in From Across the Nation
Ex-Servicemen Pay Homage
On the eve of the anniversary, the United Front of Ex-Servicemen (JCOs and OR), Himachal Pradesh, paid heartfelt tributes to the fallen CRPF personnel . Capt Jagdish Verma (retd), chairman of the organisation, recalled the tragic events of February 14, 2019, and emphasized that while the world celebrated Valentine's Day, for India it remained a day of solemn remembrance .
"We pay homage to the fallen personnel and express solidarity with their families. Most nations condemned the attack, and we urge the government to work towards building a stronger international anti-terrorism platform," Capt Verma said, adding that greater global coordination and diplomatic pressure are essential to permanently stop cross-border terrorism .
Hyderabad to Light Diyas at Historic Stepwell
In a unique tribute, residents of Hyderabad will light diyas and candles at the 350-year-old Bansilalpet stepwell on Saturday evening to honor the Pulwama martyrs . The programme, scheduled to begin at 6.30 pm, is being organized as a gesture of solidarity with the CRPF.
Around 150 CRPF jawans are expected to render patriotic songs during the event, while the city-based band 'Tangy Seasons' will perform at the restored stepwell from the Asaf Jahi period . Rajashree Pinnamaneni, one of the organizers, said the stepwell will be illuminated with diyas and candles. Additional Director General Ravideep Singh, who was present during the Pulwama attack, will deliver an address on the occasion .
Seven Years On: Promised Land Finally Granted to Martyrs' Families
In a poignant development, two widows of Pulwama martyrs from Kanpur finally received land plots that were promised to them seven years ago . Directors of Triyam Realtech, a real estate firm based in Kanpur, completed the registration of 100-square-yard plots for the families of Pradeep Singh Yadav of Kalyanpur and Shyam Babu of Raigaon in Derapur tehsil .
The gift deeds were registered in court for Yadav's wife, Neeraj Yadav, and Shyam Babu's wife, Ruby Devi. Company officials had visited the homes of the three martyrs from the region after the attack and announced they would give each family 100 square yards of land as a gesture of support .
Speaking after the registration, both widows expressed relief that the commitment made to their families had finally been fulfilled. Neeraj Yadav, now raising three children, recalled that her husband left Kanpur for Jammu on February 10, 2019, and was killed just four days later. Ruby Devi, mother of two sons, said she last spoke to her husband on February 14 before receiving the devastating news .
The company has promised that the third plot, for the family of Ajit Kumar Gautam of Unnao, will be provided soon .
Political Reactions and Context
The anniversary has also drawn political reactions. Dr. Zafar Nawaz Jaspal, Associate Professor at Quaid-e-Azam University, Islamabad, suggested in a Radio Pakistan broadcast that the BJP aims to use the Pulwama attack for its election campaign. He alleged that the "indigenous freedom movement" in Kashmir is a response to Indian oppression . These remarks reflect the continuing divergent narratives surrounding the attack.
Remembering the Fallen: The 2019 Pulwama Attack
The Pulwama attack occurred on February 14, 2019, when a suicide bomber driving an explosive-laden vehicle rammed into a CRPF convoy at Lethpora in Pulwama district . The blast killed 40 CRPF personnel instantly and injured several others, marking one of the worst terrorist attacks in Jammu and Kashmir's history.
The attack drew strong condemnation from countries across the world and led to heightened tensions between India and Pakistan . In response, the Indian government initiated several measures to counter terrorism and later carried out the Balakot airstrikes .
Current Security Situation in Jammu and Kashmir
Despite seven years having passed, terrorist activities in Jammu and Kashmir have not ceased entirely . Officials acknowledge the strategic and geographical challenges in the region, as well as broader geopolitical complexities. However, Capt Verma emphasized that the people of India expect sustained and decisive efforts to eliminate terrorism .
Authorities have appealed to the general public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity to the nearest police station immediately . The security grid across Jammu and Kashmir remains fully activated to prevent any untoward incidents on the anniversary.
Looking Forward: The Fight Against Terrorism
As India remembers the Pulwama martyrs, the focus remains on ensuring that such an attack never happens again. The government continues to work towards building international consensus against terrorism, with greater global coordination and diplomatic pressure seen as essential tools to permanently stop cross-border terrorism .
For the families of the 40 brave personnel who laid down their lives, the pain remains fresh even after seven years. Tributes like the candlelight vigil in Hyderabad and the fulfillment of land promises in Kanpur serve as small but meaningful gestures of a nation's gratitude.
Key Events on 7th Pulwama Anniversary
What's Next?
As the anniversary passes, security forces will remain on high alert in the coming days. The nation continues to mourn the loss of its bravehearts while supporting their families and strengthening its resolve against terrorism.
Anniversary Details at a Glance
Event: 7th Anniversary of 2019 Pulwama Terror Attack
Date: February 14, 2026
Location: Pulwama district, Jammu and Kashmir (site of attack); Tributes nationwide
Casualties: 40 CRPF personnel martyred
Security Measures: Enhanced checks in Srinagar's Lal Chowk, additional checkpoints across J&K
This article is based on reporting from Hindustan Times, The Tribune, Deccan Chronicle, The Times of India, and other sources as of February 14, 2026.
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