Operation Mahadev: Pahalgam Attack Mastermind Killed

Srinagar, July 28, 2025 – In a major success for Indian security forces, three terrorists were killed in a fierce encounter during a counter-terrorism mission, codenamed Operation Mahadev, near the Dachigam National Park in the Harwan-Lidwas area of Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir. Among the neutralized terrorists was Suleiman Shah, a key figure believed to be the mastermind behind the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack that claimed multiple lives and shocked the nation.

The joint operation was carried out by the Indian Army’s Chinar Corps and the Jammu and Kashmir Police, based on specific intelligence inputs and surveillance data that confirmed the presence of heavily armed foreign terrorists hiding in the dense forest terrain between the Zabarwan and Mahadev ridges.

🔥 Key Highlights of Operation Mahadev

• Three terrorists killed: Suleiman Shah, Jibran, and Hamza Afghani

• Encounter location: Lidwas-Harwan area, near Dachigam National Park, Srinagar

• Operation conducted jointly by the Indian Army and J&K Police

• Intelligence-based mission, launched after inputs on foreign terrorist movement

• Ongoing identification confirmation by IGP Kashmir Vidhi Kumar Birdi

🔎 The Encounter: How Operation Mahadev Unfolded

The operation began around 11:00 AM on Monday, July 28, 2025, following credible intelligence that foreign terrorists were hiding in the forested Lidwas region. The terrain — located between the Zabarwan and Mahadev ridges — is known for its dense vegetation and natural cover, often exploited by terrorist groups for safe passage and concealment.

Security forces quickly cordoned off the area and launched a targeted search operation, which soon turned into a heavy firefight. After hours of intense exchange of gunfire, three terrorists were neutralized. One of them, according to sources, was identified as Suleiman Shah, a high-ranking foreign militant believed to have orchestrated the Pahalgam terror attack.

While official identification is still underway, the elimination of these three terrorists marks a significant success in India’s ongoing fight against terrorism in Kashmir.

👤 Who Was Suleiman Shah?

Suleiman Shah was a foreign terrorist commander associated with Lashkar-e-Taiba, operating from across the border. His involvement in multiple attacks, including the brutal ambush in Pahalgam on April 22, made him one of India’s most-wanted militants.

Sources indicate that Shah was not only the operational head behind the Pahalgam incident but also played a role in recruiting and coordinating foreign terrorists infiltrating Kashmir. His death is a major blow to the militant leadership structure in the region.

🧠 Intelligence & Surveillance Led the Way

Operation Mahadev was launched following a combination of:

• Human intelligence (HUMINT) reports

• Technical surveillance including drone tracking and signal intercepts

• Cross-agency coordination between Army intelligence, J&K Police, and national agencies

The successful tracking and elimination of high-value targets like Suleiman Shah showcases India’s growing counter-insurgency capabilities and the tight integration between defense and intelligence wings.

🇮🇳 Official and Political Reactions

🎙️ IGP Kashmir: Verification Underway

Inspector General of Police (Kashmir Zone) Vidhi Kumar Birdi stated that while preliminary information suggests Suleiman Shah was among the dead, official confirmation would take time due to ongoing forensic analysis and body identification.

"The identities are being verified using technical and forensic methods. Final confirmation will be shared soon," said Birdi.

🏛️ Jay Panda in Parliament

BJP MP Baijayant Jay Panda addressed the Lok Sabha on Monday, stating:

“As we were debating terrorism today, news came in that Operation Mahadev is underway in Jammu and Kashmir. It appears at least one terrorist involved in the Pahalgam attack has been neutralized.”

He commended the Indian Army and J&K Police for their swift and decisive action.

💔 Voice of the Victim’s Family: A Mix of Grief and Relief

The wife of Prashant Satpathy, a victim of the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack, reacted emotionally to the news of Suleiman Shah’s reported death:

“Those who are gone won’t return, but terror must end. We are proud of the Indian Army.”

Her statement encapsulates the feelings of thousands of families affected by terrorism — seeking justice, closure, and peace.

🕉️ Pilgrims Continue Their Yatra Amid Security

Despite the ongoing encounter, Amarnath Yatra continued smoothly. According to official data, over 9,000 pilgrims visited the sacred Amarnath cave shrine in south Kashmir on Monday, bringing the total number of devotees this season to 3.86 lakh.

This highlights the resilience of the devotees and the robust security arrangements provided by the Indian Army and paramilitary forces in volatile regions.

🔮 What Does This Mean for Kashmir’s Security?

✅ Operational Success

Operation Mahadev marks another successful tactical mission in a region frequently targeted by cross-border terrorism. The removal of trained, foreign militants reduces the operational capabilities of terror modules in the Valley.

🧠 Intelligence Dominance

The ability to locate high-value targets like Suleiman Shah and neutralize them in real-time is a testament to India’s growing surveillance and intelligence power, both in field ops and cyber monitoring.

📉 Blow to Terror Ecosystem

Eliminating a leader like Shah will likely cause disarray within terror outfits, disrupting recruitment, coordination, and morale.

🧾 Summary: What Operation Mahadev Signifies

• Indian forces eliminated 3 terrorists, including a top Lashkar commander

• Encounter took place in Lidwas near Dachigam National Park

• Operation Mahadev demonstrates India’s surgical response to terror threats

• Reactions from victims’ families and politicians show national support

• Amarnath Yatra continues safely despite active terror threats

📌 Conclusion

Operation Mahadev stands as a strategic and symbolic victory in India’s persistent fight against terrorism in Jammu and Kashmir. By neutralizing three deadly terrorists, including the alleged mastermind of the Pahalgam attack, the Indian Army and J&K Police have sent a strong message: Terrorism will not be tolerated on Indian soil.

The operation also reflects the professionalism, coordination, and bravery of Indian forces operating in one of the world’s most complex conflict zones. As families of the victims find some semblance of justice, the entire nation stands with the forces who continue to protect the land and its people.