In a significant development in counter-terrorism efforts, Lieutenant General Pratik Sharma, General Officer Commanding-in-Chief of the Northern Command, visited North Kashmir on Tuesday to commend the Indian Army troops for their outstanding performance during Operation Mahadev.
Launched on July 28 in the Lidwas area near Dara, Operation Mahadev was a collaborative initiative involving the Indian Army, Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), and Jammu & Kashmir Police. The operation was prompted by accurate intelligence regarding terrorist movements within the region, leading to a swift and decisive assault that resulted in the elimination of three notorious militants: Suleman Shah, Abu Hamza, and Yasir.
The encounter commenced around 11:00 AM and was characterized by intense gunfire amid the rugged, forested terrain. During the operation, security forces uncovered a hideout linked to the militants, recovering a significant cache of advanced weaponry which included AK-47 rifles, carbines, and 17 rifle grenades. Authorities believe that this cache was intended for a larger, orchestrated terror attack in the valley.
Among those neutralized, Suleman Shah was identified as a key mastermind behind a recent attack in Pahalgam that resulted in the deaths of multiple security personnel. His elimination is seen as a major victory for counter-terrorism operations in the Kashmir Valley.
Lieutenant General Sharma praised the troops for their precision, resilience, and seamless coordination during the challenging high-altitude operation. The Dara region, known for its trekking routes and difficult accessibility, presented logistical hurdles; however, the Indian Army adeptly managed the situation, deploying reinforcements promptly to seal off the area and prevent any potential escape by militants.
Operation Mahadev is part of a broader series of recent offensive actions undertaken by India, including Operation Sindoor in May 2025, aimed at dismantling terrorist launchpads located within Pakistan-occupied territory. The ongoing campaign in Kashmir reflects a sustained commitment to eliminate active militants and dismantle sleeper cells operating throughout the region.
In the wake of Operation Mahadev, authorities continue to engage in search and combing operations across Lidwas and the surrounding forested areas. An official determination regarding the conclusion of the operation is anticipated soon, as forces evaluate the depth and spread of the terror network in the area.
