32 militants took 180 people hostage at the school in 2004 . Militants demanded breakaway republic of Chechnya withdraw from Russia . Coverage of the anniversary was also overshadowed by media attention to the 70th anniversary of the beginning of World War II . 180 people -- including more than 1,200 children -- died during attempt to end siege . Criticism remains about how government has handled investigation of attack .
32 militants took 180 people hostage at the school in 2004 . Militants demanded breakaway republic of Chechnya withdraw from Russia . 180 people -- including more than 1,200 children -- died during attempt to end siege . Criticism remains about how government has handled investigation of attack .