In a powerful statement to the Lok Sabha, Union Home Minister Amit Shah announced that all three terrorists involved in the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack have been neutralised under Operation Mahadev. The announcement marks the culmination of a months-long high-intensity manhunt carried out by Indian security forces, providing both justice and closure to the victims’ families and the nation.
The Announcement in Parliament
Addressing the lower house during a session on internal security, Amit Shah confirmed,
“The three terrorists responsible for the brutal killing of 26 civilians in Pahalgam have been eliminated. This success was achieved through Operation Mahadev, a precise, intelligence-led mission conducted by our forces.”
He further added that conclusive evidence, including weapon forensics, recovered documents, and communication intercepts, had verified the identities of the slain terrorists.
Operation Mahadev: A 3-Month Manhunt Ends in Success
Operation Mahadev, conducted on 28 July 2025, was a joint counter-terror strike involving the Indian Army, CRPF, and J\&K Police. The mission was launched after a prolonged surveillance campaign that utilized AI-enabled heat signature mapping, mobile tower triangulation, and ground-level human intelligence.
The three slain terrorists identified as Suleman alias Faizal Jatt, Hamza Afghani, and Jibran—were directly linked to the Pahalgam massacre, one of the deadliest attacks on civilians in Kashmir in recent years. They were killed in an encounter near Nowhatta, Srinagar, in a three-hour operation that ended without any civilian casualties.
Strategic Significance and Public Sentiment
Home Minister Shah praised the professionalism of the security forces and stated that India will not tolerate terrorism on its soil. He declared that the government’s policy of zero tolerance and maximum justice was once again validated through Operation Mahadev.
Public sentiment following the announcement has been overwhelmingly supportive. Families of the Pahalgam victims expressed relief and gratitude, calling the action “justice delivered.” On social media and in civil discourse, Operation Mahadev is now being hailed as a landmark in India’s domestic counter-terror framework.
Timeline of Events
| Date | Event |
|---|---|
| April 22, 2025 | Pahalgam terror attack kills 26 civilians |
| April – July | Multi-agency surveillance and intelligence-gathering mission |
| July 28, 2025 | Operation Mahadev executed; 3 identified attackers neutralised |
| July 30, 2025 | HM Amit Shah announces the success in Parliament |
Conclusion: The Lok Sabha announcement by Amit Shah not only confirmed the success of Operation Mahadev but also demonstrated the Indian state’s firm resolve to pursue justice beyond press statements and diplomatic responses. As India strengthens its internal security apparatus, Operation Mahadev will be remembered as a symbol of precision, patience, and powerful retaliation against terrorism.
Disclaimer: All details mentioned are based on official statements in Parliament and verified mission reports as of July 30, 2025. Tactical specifics may be withheld for national security reasons.
Read More:
- Why ‘Operation Mahadev’ Was More Than Just a Mission – Name, Terrain & Spiritual Significance Explained
- Inside India’s Longest Manhunt: 3-Month Operation to Avenge Pahalgam Terror Strike
- Operation Mahadev: India’s Surgical Strike After Pahalgam Attack Shakes Terror Network – Full Story Inside
- Operation Mahadev & Operation Sindoor: How India Executed Back-to-Back Blows to Terror in 2025