26/11 Mumbai Terror Attack: Survivor Devika Rotawan Shares Harrowing Memories and Call for Unity

26/11 Mumbai Terror Attack: Survivor’s Story

Sixteen years have passed since the Mumbai terror attack on November 26, 2008. This attack affected many lives, including Devika Rotawan. At just nine years old, Devika was at Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus (CSMT) when the attack began. She was shot in the leg during the chaos, and the injury still troubles her today.

In an interview on the attack’s anniversary, Devika shared her vivid memories. “It’s been 16 years, but I still remember everything from that night,” she said. On that day, she had traveled to Pune with her father and brother to see her elder sibling. Upon arriving at CSMT, a bomb exploded, followed by gunfire that injured many people.

Devika was initially taken to St George’s Hospital and later to JJ Hospital, where she underwent surgery. “I was unconscious for a while,” she recalled. Her recovery took over a month. After the incident, her family agreed to have her testify against the terrorists, especially since she could identify Ajmal Kasab, the only terrorist captured alive.

“I wanted to kill him for what he did, but I was just nine,” Devika stated. She felt the weight of identifying the man responsible for her suffering. Her testimony contributed significantly to Kasab’s conviction.

Having lost her mother in 2006, Devika now aspires to fight against terrorism. “Terrorism must end. People need to speak out against wrongdoings,” she emphasized, pointing to the ongoing challenges.

Despite some support, Devika faced disconnection from relatives after the attack. However, many have since returned to her life. Currently, she is focused on her physical recovery and remains steadfast in her beliefs. “I still feel pain, but I am proud to have stood up for what is right,” she mentioned.

As the anniversary approaches, Devika remembers the victims and calls for unity against terrorism. She urges people to recall that night and support those affected. Devika has graduated and now lives in rented accommodation in Bandra East. The government has been advised to consider her request for housing allocation.

On November 26, 2008, ten Pakistani terrorists launched attacks across Mumbai, killing 166 people and injuring many others. The attacks targeted high-profile locations, including CSMT, the Oberoi Trident, and the Taj Mahal Palace. Security forces eliminated nine terrorists, while Ajmal Kasab was executed on November 21, 2012.

Devika’s story stands as a reminder of the impact of violence and the importance of standing together against terrorism.