One Year Since Pahalgam Attack: Operation Mahadev And The Hunt That Stopped Terrorists From Fleeing

Jammu and Kashmir: April 22 marks one year since the tragic 2025 Pahalgam attack, one of the deadliest attacks on civilians in India in recent years.

The incident, which took place in the scenic Baisaran Valley near Pahalgam, claimed 26 lives and left the nation in shock.

On that afternoon, armed terrorists entered the popular tourist meadow surrounded by dense forests and opened fire on visitors. The attackers used automatic weapons like AK-47s and M4 carbines, targeting civilians at close range.

Eyewitness accounts revealed that the attackers specifically identified victims based on religion. Hindu tourists were singled out, questioned, and shot. Among the victims were newlywed couples, families, and even a local Muslim pony operator who died trying to protect tourists.

In total, 26 people were killed, including 25 tourists from across India and one local resident. Around 20 others were injured in the brutal assault.

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The attack was linked to Pakistan-based terror outfit Lashkar-e-Taiba and its proxy The Resistance Front. While TRF initially claimed responsibility, it later denied involvement.

Investigations by Indian agencies pointed to cross-border support, with intelligence inputs and forensic evidence suggesting involvement of handlers based in Pakistan. The attack further escalated tensions between India and Pakistan, leading to diplomatic and military standoffs.

In response, Indian security forces launched Operation Mahadev to track down the perpetrators.

After months of intelligence gathering, surveillance, and coordinated efforts by the Army, CRPF, and Jammu and Kashmir Police, three key terrorists were located in the forests near Srinagar.

On July 28, 2025, security forces eliminated the attackers—identified as Suleman (mastermind), Hamza Afghani, and Zibran—in a joint encounter.

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Weapons recovered from them were later matched through forensic analysis to those used in the Pahalgam killings, confirming their involvement.

The National Investigation Agency took over the probe, uncovering a larger network of support. Several local aides were arrested for providing shelter and logistics to the attackers. Authorities also tracked financial links and communication networks tied to terror groups.

Over 20 terrorists were neutralised in multiple operations following the attack, highlighting a sustained crackdown on militancy in the region.

On the first anniversary, tributes have poured in for the victims. Leaders, including Narendra Modi and Amit Shah, reiterated the government’s commitment to fighting terrorism.

The attack not only exposed vulnerabilities in tourist security but also underscored the ongoing challenges in the region. Yet, the swift response through Operation Mahadev remains a significant moment in India’s counter-terror efforts.

On the anniversary, leaders including Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha and Union ministers paid tribute to the victims, remembering the lives lost and the bravery of security forces.