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Mumbai Terror Attacks: 16 years ago, on this day, 10 terrorists from the Pakistan-based terrorist organisation  Lashkar-e-Taiba launched a meticulously planned assault in Mumbai. The brutal terrorist attacks that lasted for four days starting November 16, 2008, resulted in 166 casualties and over 300 injuries. Nine terrorists were killed during the security operation and another was arrested by the security forces.

On the anniversary of the attack, President Droupadi Murmu referred to the incident as a "cowardly attack" and paid homage to the victims and valiant security personnel who laid down their lives to protect the city.

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26/11 Terror Attacks: How Events Unfolded 

On the night of November 26, 2008, Mumbai was gripped by panic and fear. Around 10 pm, reports of a taxi explosion at Bori Bunder surfaced, marking the beginning of four harrowing days. The attackers unleashed terror at iconic locations, including the Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus, Leopold Cafe and luxury hotels such as the Taj Mahal Palace and Oberoi Trident.

Armed with automatic weapons and grenades, the terrorists took hostages and exchanged fire with security forces. Among the 166 victims were 18 security personnel and 26 foreign nationals.

<HeadLine>A suspected gunman walks in the premises of the Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus or Victoria Terminus railway station in Mumbai</HeadLine>

Ajmal Kasab walks in the premises of the Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus or Victoria Terminus railway station in Mumbai, November 26, 2008. (Image: Reuters)

Security forces engaged in relentless battles to neutralise the terrorists, with operations at major sites like Nariman House concluding on November 28. By November 29, the sieges ended, leaving nine terrorists dead and one, Ajmal Kasab, captured alive. Ajmal Kasab was later tried, found guilty and executed in 2012. His capture provided critical evidence to intelligence agencies which linked the attack to Pakistan-based terror outfit Lashkar-e-Taiba. 

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<HeadLine>Indian commandos rappel down from a helicopter onto the roof of Nariman House in Mumbai</HeadLine>

Indian National Security Guard commandos rappel down from a helicopter onto the roof of Nariman House in Mumbai, November 28, 2008. (Image: Reuters)

Security Overhaul

The attacks exposed glaring lapses in India's security infrastructure, prompting sweeping changes. The Indian Parliament established the National Investigation Agency (NIA) to strengthen counterterrorism capabilities and amended the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act to enhance investigative powers.