What is Operation Mahadev?
What is Operation Mahadev? Pahalgam Attack Mastermind Killed in Major Counter-Terror Operation
Operation Mahadev, which resulted in the killing of three Pakistani terrorists, including a suspected major player in the Pahalgam terror assault, was a spectacular victory for Indian security forces. On the outskirts of Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir, the intense confrontation happened in the deep Lidwas forest close to Harwan. This concerted strike, which was initiated on July 28, 2025, was the consequence of careful preparation, technical surveillance, and intelligence collection. The operation sent a strong message against cross-border terrorism in addition to averting a possible major terror attack.
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The Trigger Behind Operation Mahadev
Officials said that some information inputs, including intercepted technological communications, that resembled those used during the October 2023 Sonamarg Tunnel attack were the basis for the launch of Operation Mahadev.What is Operation Mahadev?
The intelligence pointed to the existence of armed terrorists in the Harwan region of Mulnar, near Dachigam National Park, which is known for its difficult and rocky landscape. A heavy battle broke out as a combined squad of the 4 Para Unit and the 24 Rashtriya Rifles quickly began a combing operation after seeing suspicious activity at around 11 a.m.
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Encounter and Terrorists Neutralized
The intense operation resulted in the killing of three heavily armed foreign terrorists, all believed to be affiliated with the Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT)—a Pakistan-based terror outfit.
One of the deceased was identified as Jibran, suspected to be involved in the Sonamarg Tunnel attack that claimed seven lives. Additionally, sources suggest that Suleiman Shah, the mastermind behind the Pahalgam terror attack, may also have been among the killed militants. However, full confirmation is pending forensic and official identification.
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Weapons and Tactical Readiness
Security personnel recovered a large cache of arms and ammunition at the encounter site, including:
1 M4 Carbine
2 AK Series Rifles
Multiple magazines and war-like stores
This recovery strongly indicates that the group was well-equipped and possibly planning another major strike in the region.
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Advanced Technology and Tactical Support
To gain a tactical advantage in the dense forest, drone surveillance was deployed to monitor terrorist movements and coordinate forces. Reinforcements from the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) and Jammu & Kashmir Police were quickly brought in to seal off the area and prevent any escape.
Speaking about the encounter, Inspector General of Police (Kashmir Zone) VK Birdi described it as a “long-drawn and strategically critical” operation. He confirmed that all three terrorists were Pakistani nationals, reinforcing long-standing concerns about foreign infiltration in Kashmir.
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Chinar Corps Confirms Operation Success
The Chinar Corps, the Indian Army unit stationed in Srinagar, confirmed the successful elimination of the terrorists on social media platform X (formerly Twitter):
After a fierce gunfight, three terrorists have been eliminated. The operation is still ongoing.What is Operation Mahadev?
Preliminary investigations and intercepted communications indicate that this attack may have decapitated a significant terror cell functioning under foreign leadership, even though the official names are still being confirmed.
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Larger Implications: Breaking the Backbone of Sleeper Cells
According to security establishment sources, Operation Mahadev is a component of a larger, continuous counterterrorism campaign that aims to locate and destroy foreign militants and sleeper cells that are enmeshed in the Kashmir Valley.
Preventive strikes, stopping terrorist operations before they get out of hand, and lessening the likelihood of coordinated assaults that have killed innocent people in the past are becoming more and more important.
Conclusion: A Message Against Terrorism
An important turning point in India’s war against terrorism, particularly cross-border infiltrations, was Operation Mahadev. Three high-value targets, including a potential terrorist mastermind, were neutralized, sending a strong message that India’s security forces are vigilant, ready, and dedicated to preserving national security.
As forensic analysis and further investigations unfold, more details are expected to confirm the strategic impact of this high-stakes operation.