Algiers: The Indian all-party parliamentary delegation, led by Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) MP Baijayant Jay Panda, paid tribute on Saturday (local time) to the victims of the 22 April Pahalgam terror attack by lighting candles at the historic Basilique Notre-Dame d’Afrique (Basilica of Our Lady of Africa) in the Algerian capital.

“India stands united to combat terrorism. Members of the all-party Parliamentary Delegation, led by MP Baijayant Jay Panda, lit candles in memory of the victims of the #PahalgamTerroristAttack, at the iconic Basilica of Our Lady of Africa in #Algiers,” the Indian Embassy in Algeria posted on social media platform X.

#NeverForgetNeverForgive #OperationSindoor

The Indian Embassy further emphasised that terrorism remains a global menace that demands a unified international response. The delegation briefed Algerian media, think tanks, the Indian diaspora, and friends of India. Senior officials from Algeria’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, National Community Abroad, and African Affairs attended the event.

A minute of silence was observed and wreaths were laid in solemn remembrance of the Pahalgam terror victims.

Commemorating Shared Histories

In a symbolic act of solidarity, the Indian delegation also visited Maqam Echahid (Martyrs’ Memorial) in Algiers—a powerful tribute to those who sacrificed their lives during Algeria’s War of Independence. They also toured the National Museum of the Moudjahid, which chronicles Algeria’s liberation struggle. “India and Algeria share deep bonds of history, struggle, and resilience,” MP Baijayant Panda said on X. “Along with our delegation, we paid tribute at the iconic Maqam Echahid and reflected on Algeria’s heroic fight for independence. #OperationSindoor #IndiaAgainstTerror”

Bilateral Briefing and Strategic Messaging

Earlier, the delegation began their engagements with a detailed briefing by India’s Ambassador to Algeria, Dr. Swati V. Kulkarni. She elaborated on Algeria’s stance regarding the Pahalgam terror attack, India’s Operation Sindoor, and avenues for counter-terrorism cooperation. “Advancing India’s unwavering stance against terrorism and deepening India–Algeria bilateral cooperation. Ambassador Kulkarni highlighted the robust India–Algeria partnership and the global resonance of #OperationSindoor,” BJP MP Rekha Sharma posted on X.

The visit forms part of India’s strategic diplomatic outreach to sensitise global partners about the threat of Pakistan-sponsored cross-border terrorism and to forge a broader international consensus against terror. Algeria is a key leg of this multi-nation initiative following previous visits to Bahrain, Kuwait, and Saudi Arabia.

“We began engagements in Algeria with a detailed briefing covering the strong India–Algeria relationship, shared concerns on terrorism, and the powerful message of Operation Sindoor,” MP Panda added.

Upon arrival, the delegation was warmly received by Ambassador Kulkarni and senior Algerian officials including Mourad Heraki, Director (Ceremonial), and Zineddine Goufi, Deputy Director (Asia Oceania), at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

Delegation Members

The delegation is led by BJP MP Baijayant Jay Panda and includes:

• BJP MPs: Nishikant Dubey, Phangnon Konyak, Rekha Sharma, Satnam Singh Sandhu
• AIMIM MP: Asaduddin Owaisi
• Former Diplomat: Harsh Vardhan Shringla

Their mission reflects India’s evolving doctrine on terrorism—a calibrated, proportionate, and resolute response exemplified by Operation Sindoor, and the growing international momentum behind India’s anti-terror campaign.