On May 30, 2025, Prime Minister Narendra Modi met with the family of Shubham Dwivedi, a victim of the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack, during his visit to Kanpur. The meeting, held at Chakeri Airport, was marked by deep emotions as the Prime Minister offered his condolences and assured the bereaved family of the government’s unwavering support.

Background: The Pahalgam Terror Attack

On April 22, 2025, terrorists launched a brutal attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, targeting tourists in the Baisaran Valley. The assault resulted in the deaths of 26 civilians, including Shubham Dwivedi, a 31-year-old businessman from Kanpur, who was on vacation with his newlywed wife, Aishanya, and other family members. The attackers reportedly asked victims about their religion before opening fire, making it one of the deadliest attacks on civilians in recent years.

The Meeting at Chakeri Airport

Upon his arrival at Chakeri Airport in Kanpur, Prime Minister Modi met privately with Shubham’s family, including his wife Aishanya and parents Sanjay and Seema Dwivedi. The meeting was deeply emotional, with family members expressing their grief and the Prime Minister offering words of comfort. Shubham’s cousin, Saurabh Dwivedi, described the encounter as profoundly moving, noting that the Prime Minister himself became emotional during the interaction.

Family’s Gratitude and Appeal

During the meeting, the Dwivedi family expressed their appreciation for the government’s response to the Pahalgam attack, particularly Operation Sindoor, which was launched as a retaliatory measure against the perpetrators. They conveyed that the operation brought a sense of solace, believing that Shubham’s sacrifice had not been in vain. The family also appealed to the Prime Minister to recognize Shubham as a martyr, highlighting his bravery and the circumstances of his death.

Prime Minister’s Assurance

Prime Minister Modi assured the Dwivedi family of the government’s full support and reiterated the nation’s commitment to combating terrorism. He emphasized that the fight against such threats would continue unabated and that the government stood firmly with the victims’ families. The Prime Minister’s words aimed to provide some comfort to the grieving family and reaffirm the nation’s resolve in the face of such tragedies.

Community and Government Support

In addition to the Prime Minister’s visit, local and state officials have shown solidarity with the Dwivedi family. A memorial gate is being constructed in Shubham’s native village of Hathipur, Kanpur, to honor his memory. The foundation stone was laid by UP Assembly Speaker Satish Mahana, with Shubham’s wife, Aishanya, performing the groundbreaking ceremony. The memorial, estimated to cost Rs 11 lakh, is expected to be completed within three months.

The meeting between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the family of Shubham Dwivedi underscores the nation’s collective grief and determination to stand against terrorism. While no words can fully alleviate the pain of such a loss, the government’s support and acknowledgment of Shubham’s sacrifice serve as a testament to the country’s commitment to its citizens and the fight against terror.