Joint Security Forces Neutralize Pahalgam Attack Mastermind in Swift Operation
Early Monday, security forces executed Operation Mahadev, targeting three heavily armed terrorists near Srinagar’s Lidwas forest on the outskirts of Dachigam National Park. The primary focus was Suleiman Shah, also known as Hashim Musa, a former Pakistani special forces operative and the alleged mastermind behind the April 22 Pahalgam massacre, where 26 tourists, primarily Hindu, were gunned down in Baisaran Valley.
The operation commenced at around 11am following a tip-off via intercepted satellite communications. Joint teams from the Indian Army's Chinar Corps, Jammu & Kashmir Police, CRPF, and elite units like 24 Rashtriya Rifles and 4 Para surrounded the suspected hideout. After a tense firefight, all three militants—Hashim Musa, Abu Hamza, and Yasir, identified as Pakistani nationals with Lashkar-e-Taiba links—were killed. Seventeen grenades, two AK-47 rifles, and an M4 carbine were recovered on site.
The police stated, “Today's action avenges the Baisaran massacre and disrupts LeT’s operative network in South Kashmir,” highlighting the op’s precision and speed—tracking, surrounding, and neutralizing the group in less than three hours.
Official Comment: Inspector General of Police VK Birdi said, “While identities are being verified, evidence links the deceased to both the Pahalgam and last year’s Sonamarg attacks”.
Immediate Impact: Security was heightened across South Kashmir and the Amarnath pilgrim route, with the Defence Minister stating in Parliament, “India has met all its strategic objectives—today’s operation sends a clear message against cross-border terrorism”.
“The pain won’t go, but knowing justice was delivered brings us some peace,” said Aishanya Dwivedi, widow of a Pahalgam victim.