February 14: A Black Day in Indian History

Introduction

Though February 14 is universally celebrated as Valentine's Day, in India the day also carries a bitter reminder of some sorrowful incidents that have left a lasting impact on the country. The day is now celebrated by many as a Black Day, especially because of the Pulwama terror attack of 2019, when 40 gallant CRPF personnel lost their lives. News Drishti looks back on this tragic incident and its role in Indian history.

The Pulwama Attack: A Nation in Grief

On 14 February 2019, a Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) jawan convoy was on the Jammu-Srinagar highway when a suicide bomber drove an explosive vehicle into one of the buses. The terror attack, led by the terror outfit Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM), claimed the lives of 40 Indian troops. It was among the most lethal terror attacks on Indian security personnel in recent times.

The whole country was devastated with sorrow and anger. Anti-terrorism protests broke out nationwide, seeking stern action against terrorism. In retaliation, India conducted "Operation Balakot", an airstrike on terrorist training camps in Pakistan's Balakot area, barely a week after the attack. News Drishti considers this incident as a turning point for India in its war against terrorism.

Why February 14 is Called a Black Day

For most Indians, February 14 is no longer a day of love alone; it is a day of remembrance and respect for the soldiers who gave their lives. While the globe observes Valentine's Day with celebrations, India marks it as a somber day to pay respect to its martyrs. Various organizations, schools, and communities now hold memorial services and offer tributes to the martyrs on this day. News Drishti stresses remembering such events to make sure the sacrifices of our soldiers are never forgotten.

Other February 14 Tragic Incidents

In addition to Pulwama, February 14 has seen other black days in history. For example, in 2006, a wave of bombings occurred in Quetta, Pakistan, and many civilians were killed. Across the world, the day has also been colorized by catastrophic events such as the St. Valentine's Day Massacre of 1929 in America, where gang wars resulted in the killing of a number of men in Chicago. News Drishti recognizes that although the date itself stands for love, history has known it as a day of grief and loss.

A Call for Remembrance

While the country grieves for the death of CRPF jawans, several leaders and people pay homage through social media, candlelight marches, and nationalistic functions. The government also made efforts to increase national security to avoid such incidents in the future.

At News Drishti, we feel that February 14 must be a day of national harmony, reminding us of the valor of our soldiers and the ongoing necessity to resist terrorism. Let this day not only be a remembrance day but also a call for peace, justice, and a more powerful India.