Summary

India’s security experts, officials, and locals respond to the death of Pahalgam attack mastermind Hashim Musa in Operation Mahadev.

Article Body

Reactions to Operation Mahadev: Experts and Locals Weigh In
Reactions to Operation Mahadev: Experts and Locals Weigh In

Operation Mahadev: A Nation Reacts to Justice Served in Pahalgam

Expert Analysis

Dr. Alisha Khan, a security analyst at the University of Cambridge, said,

“The rapid neutralization of the perpetrators signals a new phase in India’s counterterror strategy—agility, intelligence-led action, and better cooperation among agencies.”

Retired Lt. Gen. Rajat Raina commented,

“What sets this response apart is its speed and surgical precision. It sends a robust message to both Pakistan and local auxiliaries: retaliation will be swift and severe.”

Official Statements

Inspector General VK Birdi (J&K Police) at a press briefing:

“We received credible intelligence and acted decisively. We hope this provides closure to the families affected by April’s atrocity.”

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh declared in Parliament:

“India halted offensive operations not under any outside pressure but because all objectives—justice for the Pahalgam victims—were fulfilled.”

Public Sentiment

On X (formerly Twitter), @saba_najeeb from Anantnag wrote:

“Thank you @JmuKmrPolice @adgpi. The valley is safer tonight, but we must remain vigilant.”

At the Pahalgam bus stand, local shopkeeper Tariq Ahmad reflected,

“We lost business and our peace, but now there’s hope again. No one should have to live in such fear.”

A makeshift memorial at Baisaran Valley saw candles lit by survivors. One tourist, Maria Gonzalez from Lisbon, said,

“We came to honor those lost. It’s a tragedy, but courage wins.”

TOPICS MENTIONED IN THIS ARTICLE

About the Author(s)

  • Dr. D. Ravikumar, MP photo

    Dr. D. Ravikumar, MP

    Member of Parliament, Author, Translator & Social Justice Advocate

    Dr. D. Ravikumar is a distinguished Member of Parliament representing the Villupuram constituency in the 17th and 18th Lok Sabha. With academic credentials in MA, BL, and PhD, he is widely respected for his work in literature, social justice, and public policy. A prolific author and translator, Dr. Ravikumar has made significant contributions to Tamil literature and Dalit discourse. His political journey began as a legislator in 2006, and he continues to champion the rights of marginalized communities through both his writing and legislative work. At HeyColleagues.com, he shares thought-provoking essays on democracy, human rights, and socio-political transformation.

    View all articles by Dr. D. Ravikumar, MP