Operation Mahadev: India Eliminates Militants Behind Kashmir Tourist Attack

Operation Mahadev: India Eliminates Terrorists Behind Pahalgam Massacre

On July 29, 2025, India officially confirmed the elimination of three foreign terrorists involved in the brutal Pahalgam tourist attack in Kashmir’s Baisaran Valley. The high-profile counter-terrorism mission, named Operation Mahadev, was jointly executed by the Indian Army, CRPF, and Jammu & Kashmir Police.

According to Home Minister Amit Shah, the slain terrorists were Pakistani nationals. Two were confirmed members of the internationally banned group Lashkar-e-Taiba. Their identities were verified through forensic reports, DNA testing, and a match with weapons used in the April attack.

The deadly April 22, 2025 assault had claimed the lives of 26 unarmed tourists, both domestic and international. It was one of the deadliest terror incidents in the region in recent years, triggering national mourning and an urgent call for justice.

The terrorists were hiding in the Dachigam National Park, near Srinagar. After weeks of intelligence gathering, security forces launched a precision strike. A prolonged gun battle took place, resulting in the neutralization of all three suspects. According to Shah, no civilian casualties occurred, and local residents were safely evacuated in advance.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi praised the security forces, stating, “Justice has prevailed. We stand with the victims and will never allow terrorists to dictate our future.” Defence Minister Rajnath Singh issued a firm warning to Pakistan, declaring that any future cross-border activity would face a stronger response.

Families of the victims expressed cautious relief. One relative said, “We are thankful justice has been served, but the loss is irreplaceable. We hope no other family suffers like this.”

Globally, India received support from countries including the United States, European Union, and Australia, all of which acknowledged India's right to self-defense and urged restraint to avoid further escalation with Pakistan.

Security analysts say Operation Mahadev sends a clear message: India is now focused not just on defensive security, but on preemptive strikes and intelligence-led operations. Surveillance in South Kashmir has since been intensified, with additional drone activity and checkpoints established.

While this operation marks a major milestone in the fight against terrorism, experts warn that more sleeper cells may still be active. Lasting peace in Kashmir will require both strong domestic security measures and diplomatic pressure on countries that harbor militants.