In a big counter-terror operation, Indian Army Special Forces eliminated Hashim Musa, the mastermind of the gruesome Pahalgam terror attack, which left 26 dead in April, and two other terrorists. The operation codenamed “Operation Mahadev” was conducted in the thick Dachigam forests of Srinagar’s Harwan area after actionable intelligence and concerted search operations by Indian security agencies.
Elite Commander Behind the Carnage
Hashim Musa, alias “Suleiman”, was a Pakistan Army Special Service Group (SSG) commando turned Lashkar-e-Taiba activist. Intelligence sources are of the view that he was handpicked by the Pakistani military and intelligence establishment to head high-profile terror strikes within Jammu & Kashmir, having plotted strikes in Gagangir (Ganderbal), Baramulla, and Buta Pathri before plotting the Pahalgam massacre.
Musa’s history of unusual warfare and skill with advanced firepower—such as M4 carbines and AK-47S—rendered him a tactically important threat. His hand-to-hand combat, survival, and stealth navigation training made his capability to elude capture for months all the more heightened.
The Pahalgam Tragedy
On 22 April 2025, five terrorists marched into the scenic Baisaran Valley along Pahalgam and fired at travelers after checking their religion, killing 26 primarily Hindu travelers, but also a Christian traveler and a Muslim pony operator who attempted to stop them. The terrorists were caught on camera firing at victims and into the sky, heightening public outrage and causing nationwide mourning.
Decisive Operation: Message Delivered
Indian troops initiated “Operation Mahadev” following genuine logs and local inputs that led to the hideout of Musa. Security authorities sensitively coordinated to clear the upper Dachigam forest within 14 days, culminating in a fierce encounter that killed the terrorists. The achievement was made public by the Army’s Chinar Corps on social media.
This success is being greeted as a resounding success in India’s counter-terror war. Authorities claim the operation highlights India’s capacity to neutralize high-value targets, even those with advanced training or overseas affiliation.
Broader Implications
With the neutralization of Hashim Musa, the Indian security forces seek to unravel the entire terror chain, both local OGWs who had given logistical support. The operation must also act as a strong message to other militants that India’s security establishment can neutralize advanced threats even in hostile territory.
As the investigations continue to unravel and more operatives are hunted down, the word is out: terrorism will face firm consequences, and justice will strike its mark.
