Congressional Statements

Ackerman condemns terrorist attack on Indian parliament

Press Release
December 13, 2001

U.S. Representative Gary L. Ackerman (D-Queens/Long Island) today condemned the terrorist attack on the Indian Parliament in New Delhi. "Today's attack on the Indian parliament is outrageous and despicable. It is clear that India's strong and courageous stand against terrorism has drawn the anger of terrorist groups."

Ackerman said "I offer my condolences to those security personnel and workers who gave their lives protecting the parliament and defending Indian democracy. I want to assure my colleagues in the Indian parliament that the U.S. Congress stands with them and we offer our support."

"In the immediate aftermath of the heinous attacks on the U.S. on September 11, Prime Minister Vajpayee offered India's unreserved support for the international terrorism coalition that the United States was assembling." Ackerman noted. "At this time, when the heart of India's democracy has been attacked, we should stand with India in her hour of need."

Ackerman went on to say "India has been the victim of terrorism for many years, as the events of today tragically remind us. India's solid record of democracy, promotion of regional stability and cooperation on counter-terrorism gives me confidence that India will long continue to be a steadfast and reliable partner in the fight against terrorism."

(Representative Ackerman is the Ranking Democrat on the House Subcommittee on the Middle East and South Asia and former co-chair of the Congressional Caucus on India and Indian-Americans.)