Hardeep Singh Puri’s Resolute Stand Against Terrorism

Cork (Ireland), 23 June 2025: During a poignant tribute marking the 40th anniversary of the tragic Air India Flight 182 (Kanishka) bombing in Ahakista, Cork, Ireland, Union Minister of Petroleum and Natural Gas, Shri Hardeep Singh Puri emphasized the imperative for worldwide solidarity in combating terrorism. “It is crucial for the international community to stand together, not solely in periods of mournful reflection like today, but in concerted, proactive measures against terrorism,” he asserted.

Reflecting on the heartbreaking events of June 23, 1985, when a bomb planted by terrorists in Canada caused the mid-air destruction of Air India Flight 182, claiming the lives of all 329 passengers, including more than 80 children, Shri Puri denounced the tragedy as a deliberate, abominable act perpetrated by extremist factions intent on sowing division in India.

Highlighting the ongoing menace of terrorism and radicalism as contemporary global threats, the Minister emphasized that these perils persist in jeopardizing innocent lives worldwide. “For decades, India has endured the harrowing impact of terrorism—from Jammu & Kashmir to Punjab to Mumbai. Our nation has repeatedly faced bombings, assassinations, and atrocities,” he remarked, underscoring the 22% surge in global terrorism-related fatalities in 2024.

In a call for solidarity, Shri Puri urged the Canadian government to join forces with India in confronting this shared challenge. “Canada is a cherished ally and partner, with whom we share rich cultural and economic ties. Our nations are united by democratic principles,” he stated.

Advocating for enhanced cooperation between India and Canada encompassing intelligence sharing, anti-radicalization initiatives, and the disruption of terror financing, Shri Puri expressed India’s readiness to escalate collaborative efforts. “Our security agencies, intelligence infrastructure, and diplomatic channels are fully dedicated to engaging with the global community to prevent the recurrence of such tragedies.”

Acknowledging and expressing gratitude towards the residents of Ahakista and the Irish government for their empathetic response following the 1985 catastrophe, Shri Puri hailed their compassionate gesture of providing solace to grieving families—a manifestation of enduring humanity.

The Minister underscored the deepening bond between India and Ireland, stemming from the solidarity forged in the aftermath of the tragedy, which has blossomed into robust bilateral relations, with trade volumes reaching nearly USD 16 billion in 2023.

Concluding his address, Shri Puri reaffirmed India’s steadfast commitment to honoring the memory of the victims by advocating for global peace and security. “Let today’s commemoration resound as a unified message—those who propagate hatred and terror shall never triumph over humanity, democracy, and camaraderie.”

The commemorative event convened Irish Prime Minister Micheál Martin, Canadian Minister of Public Safety Gary Anandasangaree, local Irish dignitaries, first responders, and bereaved families, embodying a collective tribute to the cherished lives lost.