June 24: Indian diplomatic missions in Ottawa and Toronto commemorated the 39th anniversary of the tragic Air India Flight 182 bombing on Sunday. The 1985 attack, one of the deadliest terrorist incidents in aviation history, claimed the lives of 329 individuals, including 86 children.
During the memorial event, High Commissioner Sanjay Kumar Verma paid tribute to the victims, describing the attack as a “cowardly terrorist bombing.” He addressed attendees, emphasizing the global responsibility to confront terrorism. “No government should ignore terrorism threats on their soil for political advantage. Protecting human lives surpasses fleeting political interests,” Verma stated. He called for a unified effort from governments, security bodies, and international agencies to eradicate terrorist networks and ideologies.
The ceremony saw participation from over 150 members of the Indo-Canadian community, relatives of the victims, Canadian officials, and representatives from Ireland. The High Commission highlighted India’s commitment to leading global efforts against terrorism and its solidarity with the victims’ families.
The Air India Kanishka Flight 182 was en route from Montreal to New Delhi when it exploded near London’s Heathrow Airport. The majority of the victims were Canadians of Indian origin.
