Operation Mahadev, the covert mission that eliminated the three terrorists behind the brutal Pahalgam attack, wasn’t just about brute force it was a masterclass in precision intelligence, local coordination, and symbolic execution.
From a satellite phone intercept deep in the mountains to a tip-off from local nomads, and a final ambush beneath the towering Mahadev peak, this 17-day manhunt showcased India’s evolving counter-terror strategy.
The Trigger: April 22 Pahalgam Massacre
On April 22, 2025, the country was shaken when 26 civilians were killed in Pahalgam in one of the deadliest terrorist attacks in recent times. Investigators knew it was meticulously planned and executed by foreign-trained operatives. The challenge was locating and isolating the culprits without further bloodshed.
First Break: Satellite Phone Signals
On July 11, 2025, an Indian intelligence satellite picked up encrypted phone signals near the Harmukh–Mahadev corridor. The call lasted less than a minute but it was enough to indicate that the suspects had moved south from Gurez.
Seventeen days later, another ping in the same region confirmed repeat usage of the same satellite channel, which gave operatives a 3 km triangulation zone.
Nomads Gave the Missing Piece
In the third week of July, a group of Gujjar-Bakarwal nomads passing through the Nowhatta forest line reported “three armed strangers” near a sacred cave beneath Mahadev peak. Local Army units cross-referenced this with drone footage and heat maps. The match was exact.
This clue, from locals who know the forest better than GPS, gave the mission its final lead.
Terrain, Symbolism, and the Mahadev Peak
The terrorists had chosen a hideout beneath the Mahadev peak a place not only elevated but spiritually significant to locals, often associated with Lord Shiva and protective energy.
By naming the mission “Operation Mahadev”, the forces gave a symbolic response: India’s spirit will not be broken, and justice will descend from the mountains themselves.
The Final Assault: July 28, 2025
In the early hours of July 28, a joint strike team from 4 Para SF, CRPF, and J\&K Police encircled the cave. Using night vision, thermal drones, and silent climbing gear, they moved in.
The encounter lasted just under 3 hours.
Terrorists Suleman alias Faizal Jatt, Hamza Afghani, and Jibran were killed with precision headshots. No civilian was harmed, and the mission concluded before dawn.
Operation Mahadev Timeline Summary
| Date | Event |
|---|---|
| April 22 | Pahalgam terror attack kills 26 civilians |
| July 11 | First satellite phone ping near Mahadev range |
| July 24 | Gujjar nomads tip off Army about 3 armed men |
| July 28 | Operation Mahadev executed, 3 terrorists killed near Mahadev peak |
Conclusion: Operation Mahadev wasn’t just a tactical win it was a spiritual and strategic message. Involving technology, local cooperation, mountain warfare, and mythological symbolism, this mission has set a new benchmark for India’s counter-terror response. The mountain named Mahadev stood tall, not just in altitude but in resolve becoming the silent witness to justice delivered.
Read More:
- Operation Mahadev: कांच खाने वाले ‘रेड डेविल्स’ कौन हैं? जानिए 4 पैरा के उन वीरों की कहानी जिन्होंने आतंकियों को ढेर किया
- Operation Mahadev: Guns, Made-in-Pak Chocolates – Amit Shah Reveals Proof Linking Terrorists to Pakistan
- Amit Shah on Operation Mahadev: “Terrorists Behind Pahalgam Attack Were Shot in the Head”
- Wife of Pahalgam Victim Vinay Narwal Speaks Out: “Justice Delivered Through Operation Mahadev”
- Meet the Man Behind Operation Mahadev’s Success Story, The Officer Leads from the Front