I still remember the evening of February 14, 2019, as if it were yesterday. A regular day turned into a nightmare for the entire nation. The news flashed across television screens—a suicide bombing in Pulwama had taken the lives of over 40 CRPF personnel. My heart sank as I saw the visuals of the mangled bus, the grief-stricken families, and the unprecedented horror that had unfolded on Indian soil. This was not just an attack; it was a wound on the soul of India.
What Happened on February 14, 2019?
The Pulwama attack was one of the deadliest terror strikes in Jammu and Kashmir. A convoy of over 2,500 CRPF personnel was moving along National Highway 44 when a Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) suicide bomber, Adil Ahmad Dar, slammed an explosive-laden SUV into one of the buses. The impact was devastating, instantly killing over 40 soldiers and injuring many others.
Key Details of the Pulwama Attack
| Date | February 14, 2019 |
| Location | Awantipora, Pulwama, Jammu & Kashmir |
| Perpetrator | Adil Ahmad Dar (Jaish-e-Mohammed) |
| Explosives Used | RDX (approx. 80-100 kg) |
| Death Toll | 40+ CRPF Personnel |
| Attack Type | Suicide Bombing (VBIED) |
Who Was Responsible?
The terror outfit Jaish-e-Mohammed, led by Masood Azhar, claimed responsibility for the attack. However, investigations and intelligence reports pointed toward Pakistan’s deep-state involvement, particularly the Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI), which has long been accused of fostering terrorism in the region
“The nation will never forget the sacrifice of our brave soldiers. We will leave no stone unturned to bring the perpetrators to justice.”
— PM Narendra Modi
India’s Response: The Balakot Airstrike
The emotions of every Indian, including mine, ranged from grief to rage. The call for justice was loud and clear. Just 12 days after the attack, on February 26, 2019, the Indian Air Force (IAF) conducted a surgical airstrike in Balakot, targeting JeM’s biggest training camps
Key Highlights of the Balakot Strike
| Date | February 26, 2019 |
| Location | Balakot, Pakistan |
| Aircraft Used | Mirage 2000 Jets |
| Bombs Deployed | SPICE 2000 Penetrator Bombs |
| Targets | Jaish-e-Mohammed Camps |
The successful Balakot strike not only sent a strong message to terrorists but also demonstrated India’s zero-tolerance policy towards terrorism.
Aftermath…
India responded to the Pulwama attack through multiple channels:
- Diplomatic Isolation of Pakistan: India withdrew Most Favoured Nation (MFN) status for Pakistan and urged the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) to blacklist Pakistan.
- Increased Security Measures: Convoy movement protocols were revamped, intelligence gathering was strengthened, and better armoured vehicles were deployed.
- Global Support: Over 58 countries condemned the attack, including the US, UK, France, and Iran, pushing for a UN ban on Masood Azhar.
“We stand firmly with India in the fight against terrorism.”
— US Secretary of State, Mike Pompeo
The Pulwama attack was not just an act of terror—it was a moment that united India in grief and resilience. While we mourn the brave CRPF personnel we lost, we also take solace in knowing that their sacrifice was not in vain. As I reflect on this tragic event, I am reminded of the unbreakable spirit of India—a nation that stands together in the face of adversity, stronger than ever.
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Frequently Asked Questions(FAQs) about Pulwama Attack
What is the Pulwama attack famous for?
The Pulwama attack is infamous for being the deadliest terrorist attack on Indian security forces in decades, leading to heightened tensions between India and Pakistan and prompting India's Balakot airstrike as a direct response.
How many soldiers lost their lives in the Pulwama attack?
A total of 40 CRPF personnel lost their lives in the suicide bombing, making it one of the deadliest attacks on security forces in Kashmir.
What is the status of Masood Azhar today?
Masood Azhar was designated a global terrorist by the United Nations in May 2019, after India’s persistent diplomatic efforts.
How did Pakistan respond to India’s Balakot strike?
Pakistan retaliated with airstrikes on February 27, 2019, leading to the dogfight between Indian and Pakistani jets, during which Wing Commander Abhinandan Varthaman was captured and later returned as a goodwill gesture.
References
Wikipedia contributors. (2025, February 14). 2019 Pulwama attack. Wikipedia. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/2019_Pulwama_attack
Sarwar, M. H., Rehman, A. U., & Nawal, A. (2021). INDIAN PRESS PROPAGANDA AGAINST PAKISTAN: AN ANALYSIS OF PULWAMA ATTACK AND BALAKOT AIRSTRIKE. In Department of Mass Communication & Media, University of Narowal, Narowal, Punjab, Pakistan, PhD Scholar University Sultan Zainul Abidin, Kuala Terengganu, Malaysia, & PhD Scholar University Sultan Zainul Abidin, Kuala Terengganu, Malaysia, Journal of Cardiovascular Disease Research (Vol. 12, Issue 03, pp. 416–417).
Kohli, N. & Centre for Land Warfare Studies. (2019). Dissecting the Pulwama attack. Centre for Land Warfare Studies.