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National Anti-Terrorism Day 2025 is a reminder to maintain the peace, unity, and national security in the face of violent extremism. This day is observed on May 21st every year; this day is marked as the solemn anniversary of the assassination of former Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi in 1991. National Anti-Terrorism Day in India is a day to remember the overwhelming effects of terrorism on people’s lives and to reaffirm the nation’s commitment to combating all forms of terror.

The National Anti-Terrorism Day promotes awareness through various campaigns among citizens about the dangers of terrorism and the need to stand together to fight against it. Candidates preparing for the UPSC 2025 exam should also know the importance of this day, as it covers key areas in Indian Polity, Internal Security, Current Affairs, and Governance. Here in this blog, we have mentioned the theme, history, objectives, legal frameworks, and the overall significance of this important day in India’s ongoing mission to uphold peace and justice.

What is National Anti-Terrorism Day 2025?

The National Anti-Terrorism Day 2025 is observed on May 21st across India to raise awareness about the serious consequences of terrorism and to encourage unity and peace among citizens. This day commemorates the death anniversary of former Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi, who was assassinated by a suicide bomber from the LTTE (Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam) on this day in 1991.

The main aim of the National Anti-Terrorism Day in India is to educate people about terrorism and promote national harmony. Many schools, colleges, government offices, and civil organizations observed this day by performing various activities such as holding pledges, discussions, seminars, and awareness campaigns.

National Anti-Terrorism Day 2025 Overview

National Anti-Terrorism Day 2025 is a reminder for the people of how terrorism, both domestic and international, creates a constant threat to people and national security. The table below provides a quick snapshot of its date, purpose, theme, and relevance—useful for general awareness as well as UPSC 2025 exam preparation.

Also Read: National and International Days 2025

National Anti-Terrorism Day 2025 Theme 

The official theme for National Anti-Terrorism Day 2025 has not been formally announced by the Government of India. However, organizations and educational institutions often adopt themes that promote peace, unity, and a collective stand against terrorism. These themes aim to promote harmony across the nation.

National Anti-Terrorism Day 2025 Date

National Anti-Terrorism Day 2025 is observed on Wednesday, 21 May 2025, with various nationwide activities such as pledge ceremonies, educational programs, and awareness campaigns. The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has also encouraged citizens to use innovative digital campaigns to enhance the day’s message and initiatives.

National Anti-Terrorism Day 2025 History

National Anti-Terrorism Day in India is observed annually on May 21 to commemorate the assassination of former Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi on this day in 1991. He was killed in Sriperumbudur, Tamil Nadu, by a suicide bomber associated with the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) during an election campaign rally. 

This assassination was a direct consequence of Rajiv Gandhi’s decision to deploy the Indian Peace Keeping Force (IPKF) to Sri Lanka in 1987, aiming to enforce peace between the Sri Lankan government and the LTTE. This intervention strained relations with the LTTE, ultimately leading to his tragic death.

To this national tragedy, the V.P. Singh government declared May 21 as National Anti-Terrorism Day in 1992. This day honors Rajiv Gandhi’s memory and raises awareness about the devastating effects of terrorism on society.

Objectives of National Anti-Terrorism Day

National Anti-Terrorism Day in India is observed on May 21st to commemorate the death anniversary of former Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi, who was assassinated in 1991 by a terrorist group. This day’s main aim is to promote peace, unity, and awareness about the dangers of terrorism and the importance of combating it collectively. Here are some key objectives of National Anti-Terrorism Day:

• Spread Awareness About Terrorism: To educate people about the physical, social, and economic impact of terrorism on individuals, communities, and the nation.
• Promote National Integration and Unity: To encourage a sense of unity and brotherhood among citizens so people stand together against divisive and violent ideologies.
• Pay Tribute to Terror Victims: To honor and remember the lives lost to terrorist attacks such as the Phalgam Attack and express solidarity with the families of victims.
• Strengthen National Security Awareness: To promote vigilance among citizens and highlight the role of law enforcement, intelligence agencies, and armed forces in maintaining internal security.
• Educate Youth Against Irrationality: To guide young minds away from violent ideologies and empower them with knowledge, critical thinking, and a strong sense of civic responsibility.
• Promote a Strong Anti-Terrorism Stand: To reinforce the nation’s resolve to fight terrorism in all its forms and to support governmental and global initiatives aimed at eliminating terrorism.

Also Read: Important Days in May 2025

Anti Terrorism Laws in India

India has approved several anti-terrorism laws to counter the threat of terrorism and protect national security. These anti-terrorism laws provide legal frameworks to prevent, investigate, and punish acts of terrorism while balancing individual rights and civil liberties. Here are some key anti-terrorism laws in India:

Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, 1967 (UAPA)

• Originally enacted to curb unlawful activities against the state.
• Amended multiple times, most notably in 2004, 2008, and 2019.
• The 2019 amendment allows the central government to designate individuals as terrorists.
• Provides the National Investigation Agency (NIA) with greater powers.
• Allows extended detention and limited bail provisions.

National Investigation Agency (NIA) Act, 2008

• Established the NIA as a central agency to investigate and prosecute offenses related to terrorism.
• Empowers the NIA to operate across states without prior consent from state governments (amended in 2019).

Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act (AFSPA), 1958

• Grants special powers to armed forces in “disturbed areas”.
• Controversial but considered necessary by the government to maintain internal security in insurgency-prone regions.

Information Technology Act, 2000 (Sections 66F & others)

• Deals with cyberterrorism, a growing threat in the digital age.
• Addresses hacking, digital sabotage, and the spread of terrorist propaganda online.

Prevention of Money Laundering Act, 2002 (PMLA)

• Enacted to prevent and control money laundering and to confiscate property derived from crime.
• Plays a vital role in fighting terror financing, which is a key pillar of terrorism.
• Empowers the Enforcement Directorate (ED) to investigate and prosecute cases involving the use of black money in terror activities.
• Linked with global efforts under the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) to combat terror funding. 

The Indian Penal Code (IPC), 1860 & Code of Criminal Procedure (CrPC), 1973

• Though not specifically framed for terrorism, several sections of the IPC and CrPC are used to prosecute terrorist acts and related crimes:
  • IPC Sections on murder (302), conspiracy (120B), waging war against the state (121), sedition (124A), and unlawful assembly.
  • CrPC provides the procedural framework for arrest, investigation, trial, and appeal.
• These codes are foundational to the criminal justice system and are used in conjunction with specialized anti-terror laws.

Conclusion 

National Anti-Terrorism Day 2025 is a reminder day for every citizen to remain vigilant, promote peace, and reject all forms of violence and extremism. As India continues to face both domestic and international security challenges, the day reinforces the importance of national unity, public awareness, and strong legal frameworks in the fight against terrorism.

On this day, we remember the sacrifices of victims and uphold democratic values to strengthen our nation’s resilience. For aspirants preparing for the UPSC exam, understanding the importance of this day helps to develop a well-rounded perspective on India’s internal security and governance. 

National Anti-Terrorism Day 2025 FAQs

When is National Anti-Terrorism Day observed?

The National Anti-Terrorism Day 2025 is observed on May 21 every year to mark the death anniversary of former Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi, who was assassinated in 1991.

Why is National Anti-Terrorism Day celebrated?

The National Anti-Terrorism Day 2025 is observed to raise awareness about the dangers of terrorism, honor its victims, and promote national unity, peace, and security.

Who observes National Anti-Terrorism Day in India?

 The National Anti-Terrorism Day in India is observed by government institutions, educational organizations, security agencies, and civil society, with activities such as pledges, seminars, rallies, and discussions.

What is the theme for National Anti-Terrorism Day 2025?

 The official National Anti-Terrorism Day 2025 theme has not been announced. However, commonly adopted themes include "United Against Terrorism" and "Strengthening Peace and National Security."

 

Who was responsible for Rajiv Gandhi's assassination?

The assassination was carried out by a suicide bomber from the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) in Sriperumbudur, Tamil Nadu.