Lt Gen Pratik Sharma Lauds Troops for Successful Elimination of Key Terrorists in Kashmir Operation Mahadev

In a notable achievement in counter-terrorism efforts, Lieutenant General Pratik Sharma, the General Officer Commanding-in-Chief of the Northern Command, paid a visit to North Kashmir on Tuesday to acknowledge the Indian Army troops for their outstanding execution of Operation Mahadev.

Initiated on July 28 in the Lidwas area near Dara, the operation was a collaborative mission involving the Indian Army, Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), and Jammu & Kashmir Police. The operation was based on specific intelligence regarding terrorist activities in the area, leading to a prompt action that resulted in the elimination of three notorious militants: Suleman Shah, Abu Hamza, and Yasir.

The confrontation started at around 11:00 AM, featuring intense gunfire exchanges in the dense, forested terrain. During the operation, security forces uncovered a militant hideout, recovering a cache of advanced weaponry including AK-47 rifles, carbines, and 17 rifle grenades. Officials suggest that these arms were intended for a significant terror attack in the valley.

Among the neutralized militants was Suleman Shah, suspected to be the orchestrator of the recent Pahalgam attack, which resulted in the deaths of several security personnel. His demise is considered a significant success for the counter-terrorism operations in the Kashmir Valley.

Lt. Gen. Sharma commended the troops for their precision, determination, and teamwork during the challenging high-altitude operation. Despite the logistical challenges posed by the Dara region, known for its trekking appeal and difficult access, the Indian Army efficiently deployed reinforcements to secure the area and thwart any escape attempts.

This operation is part of India’s ongoing series of offensive actions, including Operation Sindoor in May 2025, aimed at dismantling terror launchpads in Pakistan-occupied territory. The current efforts in Kashmir are part of a larger strategy to eradicate active militants and dismantle sleeper cells throughout the region.

Authorities are continuing their search and combing operations in the Lidwas and adjacent forested areas. A formal conclusion to Operation Mahadev is anticipated shortly as forces evaluate the extent of the terrorist network’s presence in the region.