National Anti-Terrorism Day 2025, Theme & History, Anti-Terrorism Laws

National Anti-Terrorism Day is observed on May 21 to spread awareness of anti-terror efforts. National Anti-Terrorism Day commemorates Rajiv Gandhi’s martyrdom.

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May 21, 2025

National Anti-Terrorism Day 2025, Theme & History, Anti-Terrorism Laws

National Anti-Terrorism Day 2025 is observed across India every year on 21st May. This solemn occurrence marks the assassination anniversary of former Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi, who was killed by a suicide bomber in 1991 in Sriperumbudur, Tamil Nadu. The observance aims to generate awareness about the devastating impact of terrorism, honour the lives lost due to terrorist acts, and promote peace, harmony, and national unity.

What is National Anti-Terrorism Day 2025?

National Anti-Terrorism Day 2025 is a day of national significance, observed to educate citizens about the ill effects of terrorism and violence, while reaffirming the country’s commitment to fight these threats. It highlights the need to preserve human rights, democratic values, and the constitutional ideals of India. The central focus is to encourage citizens, particularly the youth, to uphold peace and discourage all forms of violence.

National Anti-Terrorism Day 2025 serves as a reminder of how terrorism, both domestic and international, poses a constant threat to human life and national security. Activities such as debates, discussions, and awareness campaigns are conducted to foster a spirit of solidarity against terrorism.

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Also Read: Important Days in May 2025

National Anti-Terrorism Day 2025 Overview
Particulars Details
Name of the Observance National Anti-Terrorism Day 2025
Date 21st May 2025
Day Wednesday
Purpose To raise awareness about terrorism, promote peace, and honour victims of terrorism
First Observed 1991
Established By Government of India (V.P. Singh administration)
Historical Significance Commemorates the assassination of former PM Rajiv Gandhi on 21 May 1991
Activities Held Pledge ceremonies, debates, discussions, rallies, and awareness campaigns
Observed By Government offices, educational institutions, public and private organisations
2025 Theme Yet to be announced
Associated Laws Various anti terrorism laws in India, like the UAPA, NIA Act, etc.

National Anti-Terrorism Day 2025 History

The origin of National Anti-Terrorism Day dates back to 1991, when former Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi was assassinated by a member of the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE), a Sri Lankan militant group. The attack took place during an election rally in Tamil Nadu, where a woman suicide bomber approached Gandhi under the disguise of paying respects and detonated explosives strapped to her body, killing him and 25 others.

National Anti-Terrorism Day

In the aftermath of this incident, the V.P. Singh government declared 21st May as National Anti-Terrorism Day. Since then, the day has been commemorated every year to remember the tragic loss and to strengthen India’s resolve against terrorism.

Also Read: List of International National Days 2025

National Anti-Terrorism Day 2025 Date

National Anti-Terrorism Day 2025 will be observed on Wednesday, 21st May 2025, with a series of pledge ceremonies, educational events, and awareness drives across the country. Government offices, public sector undertakings, educational institutions, and civil society organisations will take part in promoting the anti-terrorism message. The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has encouraged innovative digital campaigns to widen the reach of these initiatives.

National Anti-Terrorism Day 2025 Theme

The National Anti-Terrorism Day 2025 theme has not been officially announced yet. However, the theme each year typically reflects the nation’s commitment to promoting peace, unity, and a collective stand against terrorism. It focuses on raising awareness about the destructive impact of terrorism on national integrity and human lives.

Objectives of National Anti-Terrorism Day

The observance of National Anti-Terrorism Day carries multiple vital objectives:

  • To raise awareness about the dangers of terrorism and its harmful impact on individuals, families, communities, and the nation.
  • To discourage youth from joining extremist groups by offering education, counselling, and community support.
  • To foster peace and national unity, irrespective of caste, creed, religion, or region.
  • To honour victims of terrorism and recognise the sacrifices of security personnel and civilians.
  • To promote a culture of vigilance, enabling citizens to report suspicious activities and contribute to national security.

Anti-Terrorism Laws in India

India, as one of the world’s largest democracies and a frequent target of terrorist attacks, has enacted strong legal frameworks to combat terrorism and safeguard national security. These laws are designed not only to prevent terrorist activities but also to enable law enforcement agencies to act swiftly and effectively against those who engage in or support acts of terror. 

To combat terrorism effectively, India has enforced several stringent laws, including:

1. Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, 1967 (UAPA)

The UAPA Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act was enacted to prevent unlawful activities that threaten the sovereignty and integrity of India. However, over the years, it has been amended to incorporate provisions directly targeting terrorism.

Key Provisions:

  • Empowers the central government to designate individuals or organisations as terrorists or terrorist organisations.
  • Provides for the seizure of properties related to terrorism.
  • Enables the National Investigation Agency (NIA) to investigate and prosecute terrorism-related offences across states.
  • Allows extended detention of accused persons without filing a charge sheet for up to 180 days, with judicial approval.

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2. National Investigation Agency (NIA) Act, 2008

The NIA Act established the National Investigation Agency, India’s premier agency for counter-terrorism.

Key Features:

  • The NIA has the authority to investigate and prosecute offences under Acts such as the UAPA, the Atomic Energy Act, and the Weapons of Mass Destruction Act.
  • It operates under the jurisdiction of the Ministry of Home Affairs.
  • The NIA can take over cases from state police with central government approval, ensuring uniformity and expertise in handling terrorism cases.

Amendments:
The 2019 amendment to the NIA Act empowered the agency to:

  • Investigate crimes committed outside India.
  • Investigate offences related to human trafficking, cyber terrorism, and explosive substances.

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

While not an anti-terrorism law in the most rigorous sense, AFSPA grants special powers to the armed forces in “disturbed areas” declared by the government.

Key Provisions:

  • Allows armed forces to arrest without warrant, search premises, and use force, even lethal, under certain conditions.
  • Provides immunity to security personnel for actions taken under the act, unless sanctioned by the Central Government.

Relevance:
AFSPA is primarily used in regions affected by insurgency and terrorism, such as Jammu & Kashmir and parts of the Northeast.

4. Prevention of Money Laundering Act, 2002 (PMLA)

Terrorist activities are often funded through illicit financial networks. The PMLA is instrumental in tracking and restraining money laundering that finances terrorism.

Objectives:

  • Prevent and control money laundering.
  • Confiscate and seize property obtained through criminal activities.
  • Obligate banks and financial institutions to maintain records and report suspicious transactions.

Link to Terrorism:
The law is frequently invoked in cases involving terror funding, often alongside UAPA provisions.

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

Numerous sections of the IPC and CrPC are relevant to the prosecution of terrorist activities:

  • Section 121: Waging war against the Government of India.
  • Section 122: Collecting arms with the intention of waging war.
  • Section 124A: Sedition.
  • Section 153A: Promoting enmity between different groups.
  • The CrPC provides procedures for investigation, arrest, trial, and appeal in terrorism-related cases.

6. Information Technology Act, 2000 (IT Act)

With the rise of cyber-terrorism and digital propaganda, the IT Act is vital for addressing terrorism in the digital space.

Pertinent Sections:

  • Section 66F: Cyber terrorism, which includes unauthorised access to protected systems, data breaches, and digital threats to national security.

7. Other Relevant Legal Instruments

  • Explosives Act, 1884 and Explosive Substances Act, 1908: Regulate the manufacture, possession, and use of explosives, commonly used in terrorist acts.
  • The Weapons of Mass Destruction and their Delivery Systems (Prohibition of Unlawful Activities) Act, 2005: Prevents proliferation and illegal trafficking of WMDs.
  • Prevention of Terrorism Act (POTA) – Though repealed, it once served as a key anti-terror legislation.
  • Terrorist and Disruptive Activities (Prevention) Act (TADA) – Repealed in 1995, this act provided law enforcement agencies with extraordinary powers to tackle terrorism.

Need for Vigilance and Peace

The harsh reality of terrorist acts such as the 26/11 Mumbai attacks, the Pulwama attack or the Pahalgam Attack highlights the importance of maintaining a vigilant and prepared society. Terrorism knows no boundaries—it is an act of cowardice, cruelty, and chaos that strikes at the human civilisation.

National Anti-Terrorism Day is not just a day of remembrance but also a call to action. It encourages citizens to reject hate, avoid radicalisation, and embrace peace as the cornerstone of a progressive society. As the saying goes, “Terrorists have no religion. They only understand the language of devastation.”

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How is National Anti-Terrorism Day Celebrated?

The day is marked by ceremonial events and public awareness activities:

  • Anti-terrorism pledge is administered in all government offices, public institutions, and schools. This pledge reinforces a commitment to combating terrorism and protecting human life and democratic values.
  • Educational events such as seminars, debates, and discussions are held in universities and colleges to enlighten students about the threat of terrorism.
  • Cultural organisations and NGOs conduct community-based programmes to spread messages of peace and unity.
  • Media campaigns, especially on digital platforms, are launched to reach wider audiences with anti-terrorism content.
  • Tributes and marches are organised in memory of Rajiv Gandhi and others who have fallen victim to terrorism.

Conclusion

National Anti-Terrorism Day 2025 offers another opportunity to renew our commitment to a terror-free, peaceful India. Through educational initiatives, community participation, and policy enforcement, the day spreads awareness about the dangers of terrorism and the necessity of unity and vigilance.

Remembering the National anti terrorism history reminds us of the heavy price paid by our leaders and civilians. As responsible citizens, let us honour their sacrifices by standing against violence, educating our youth, supporting law enforcement, and upholding the ideals of liberty, democracy, and peace.

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National Anti-Terrorism Day FAQs

It aims to spread awareness about the dangers of terrorism and promote unity and peace across the nation.

It is observed every year on May 21, commemorating the death anniversary of former Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi.

The National Anti-Terrorism Day 2025 theme has not been announced yet; it will highlight the significance of unity and peace against terrorism.

India has several anti-terrorism laws, including the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA), the National Investigation Agency (NIA) Act, and others that empower authorities to prevent and respond to terrorist activities.

It promotes peace, harmony, and awareness about the consequences of terrorism and the importance of national integrity.

National Anti-Terrorism Day is observed on May 21 to spread awareness about terrorism and to promote peace and national unity.

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