New Delhi: The Samjhauta Express bombing of February 18, 2007, serves as a stark example of unpunished terrorism and the systemic protection of right-wing extremists within India. The attack was a deliberate act by individuals connected to the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) aimed at undermining peace efforts between India and Pakistan.

According to a statement by Kashmir Media Service, the attack resulted in the loss of 68 lives, the majority of whom were Pakistani civilians. Despite substantial evidence pointing to the perpetrators, Indian authorities have not delivered justice. Notably, suspects such as Swami Aseemanand were acquitted in 2019, a decision attributed to deliberate negligence.

The involvement of Indian Military Intelligence, specifically Col. Shrikant Purohit, in shielding those responsible for the attack has further illuminated concerns about state-sponsored terrorism. This incident continues to be a blemish on India’s reputation as the world’s largest democracy.