Terrorism has existed for centuries, even though the word itself was first used in modern language during the French Revolution. In the 1790s, the Jacobins, a political group in France, used violence and fear to control people and eliminate their enemies during what is called the Reign of Terror. Later, in the 19th century, terrorist acts became more common among anarchist and nationalist groups in Europe and Russia. These groups often targeted kings, presidents, and government officials. One such example was the killing of the Russian Tsar Alexander II in 1881 by a revolutionary group.

In the 20th century, terrorism became more widespread and was used by different groups across the world. These included fascists in Europe, communist groups, and nationalists fighting for independence from colonial rule. Some of the most violent examples of terrorism in the 20th century were committed by Nazi Germany and the Soviet Union, where state-led terror was used to control and kill large numbers of people. Over time, non-government groups like the Irish Republican Army (IRA), Palestinian militant groups, and others began using bombings, assassinations, and hijackings to demand political change.

How Terrorism has changed over time

After the Cold War ended, terrorism took on new forms. The most dangerous shift came in the late 1990s and early 2000s with the rise of Islamic extremist groups such as al-Qaeda. The 9/11 attacks in the United States in 2001 marked a turning point. Nineteen terrorists hijacked four airplanes and crashed them into buildings, including the Twin Towers in New York City, killing nearly 3,000 people. These attacks changed how the world viewed terrorism and led to the U.S. and its allies launching a global “War on Terror”.

Since then, terrorist groups like ISIS (Islamic State) emerged in Iraq and Syria, spreading violence across the Middle East and beyond. Terrorism also began using the internet for recruitment and propaganda. Attacks became more random and targeted ordinary people in public places like markets, schools, and concerts.

Countries most affected by terrorism

Terrorism affects many countries, but some have suffered more than others. Iraq, Afghanistan, Pakistan, Syria, and Nigeria are among the worst-hit. In these countries, thousands of people have died due to bombings, shootings, and other violent acts. The reasons are often related to political instability, war, poverty, or religious divisions.

For example, Iraq and Syria became hotbeds of terrorism after U.S. invasions and civil wars. Afghanistan faced decades of violence from the Taliban and other extremist groups. Nigeria continues to face deadly attacks from Boko Haram, a radical Islamic group that has killed thousands. Western countries like the U.S., France, the UK, and Germany have also faced major attacks in recent years, especially from ISIS-inspired individuals.

India’s long experience with terrorism

India has been one of the most affected countries by terrorism. Its experience began around the time of partition in 1947, when religious violence between Hindus and Muslims killed millions. Later, the region of Jammu and Kashmir became a point of serious conflict between India and Pakistan. Pakistan did not accept Kashmir’s decision to join India, and since then, both countries have fought wars and seen years of violence in the region.

India accuses Pakistan of supporting terrorism by helping militants cross the border into Kashmir and other parts of the country. However, terrorism in India is not only limited to Kashmir. It also appears in the form of religious extremism, ethnic violence, left-wing Maoist insurgency, and even drug-related terrorism.

Major terror attacks in India

One of the earliest major attacks was the Red Fort terrorist attack in 2000. On December 22, two militants entered the Red Fort in Delhi and opened fire on the Indian Army stationed there. Two soldiers and a civilian were killed. The attack was later linked to the Pakistan-based group Lashkar-e-Taiba.

The 2001 Indian Parliament attack was another major incident. On December 13, five armed terrorists drove into the Parliament building complex in Delhi and began firing. Nine people, including security officers and staff, were killed. All five terrorists were also killed. The attack caused a huge national crisis, and both India and Pakistan moved troops to the border after blaming each other.

In 2002, the Akshardham Temple in Gujarat was attacked by two gunmen on September 24. They entered the temple complex and killed 33 people, injuring over 70. National Security Guard (NSG) commandos were called in, and the gunmen were killed after a long operation.

In 2005, Delhi faced one of its worst bombings. On October 29, just before the Hindu festival of Diwali, three bombs exploded in busy marketplaces in the city. Over 60 people died, and more than 200 were injured. The attack was blamed on Islamist militant groups trying to spread fear during festive times.

Another very deadly attack took place in 2008 in the city of Ahmedabad, Gujarat. On July 26, 21 bomb blasts rocked the city in less than 70 minutes. Over 50 people were killed, and hundreds were injured. The Indian Mujahideen group claimed responsibility.

Later that year, the most horrifying attack happened in Mumbai on 26 November 2008. Ten terrorists from Pakistan entered Mumbai by sea and carried out coordinated shooting and bombing attacks at several locations, including the Taj Hotel, Oberoi Hotel, CST railway station, and a Jewish community centre. The attack lasted three days, killing 166 people, including foreigners, and injuring hundreds. Only one attacker, Ajmal Kasab, was caught alive and later hanged after a long trial.

In 2012, an Israeli diplomat’s car was bombed in Delhi, injuring four people, including the diplomat’s wife. The attack was linked to tensions between Israel and Iran, showing how international conflicts can also reach Indian soil.

Terror in other Indian states

In 1987, the Lalru Bus Massacre took place in Punjab. On July 6, Sikh militants stopped a bus and killed 38 Hindu passengers. The attackers wanted to scare Hindus into leaving Punjab so they could create a separate Sikh country called Khalistan.

In 1998, the Chamba massacre occurred in Himachal Pradesh. Militants from the group Hizbul Mujahideen entered the Chamba district and killed 35 Hindu villagers, injuring many others. This attack shocked the peaceful hill state and showed how terrorism had spread beyond Kashmir.

Recent attack in Jammu and Kashmir – Pahalgam 2025

The most recent and disturbing incident happened in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, on April 22, 2025. Five armed militants attacked a group of tourists, mainly Hindus. Twenty-six civilians were killed in the brutal attack. The attackers reportedly used religious chants to separate Hindu tourists before killing them. This incident highlighted the ongoing risk to innocent people in conflict areas.

Another deadly example was the Amarnath pilgrimage attack in August 2000. Militants attacked pilgrims traveling to the Amarnath shrine, killing around 89 people, with some reports saying the number may be over 100. The attackers also injured over 60 people in multiple attacks over two days in Kashmir.

What drives terrorism in India?

Terrorism in India is caused by many problems. Some are political, such as the conflict with Pakistan over Kashmir. Others are religious, where extremists try to turn one group against another. Ethnic and language-based issues also fuel terrorism, especially in the North-East region. Left-wing terrorism, or Naxalism, is driven by poverty and anger over land rights. Poor governance, unemployment, and slow justice delivery also play a big role. Sometimes, even educated youth are radicalised through social media and false beliefs.

Terrorism remains a serious threat to peace, safety, and development around the world. Countries must work together to stop the spread of violence, improve security, and address the causes that push people toward terrorism. India, with its large and diverse population, faces extra challenges but also has a strong democratic system that can unite people across religions and communities. Strong laws, better border control, good policing, and cooperation with other countries can help in fighting terrorism. Most importantly, spreading education, justice, and harmony can weaken the roots of terrorism and make the world safer for all.

You might also be interested in: Forced conversions violate constitutional rights: Allahabad HC