OPERATION MAHADEV: THREE TERRORISTS KILLED IN SRINAGAR ENCOUNTER

In a swift and strategic response to the recent Pahalgam terror attack, the Indian Army launched Operation Mahadev in the Harwan-Ladwas region near Srinagar. This high-intensity operation was initiated based on credible intelligence inputs provided by local nomads. The mission was launched at 11 AM and resulted in the elimination of three heavily armed terrorists who were hiding in the densely forested area.

Security forces, including special units of the Indian Army and local police, swiftly cordoned off the area early in the day. The information provided by the nomads, who reported suspicious movements in the region, proved critical in tracing the whereabouts of the militants. After an initial search, contact was established with the terrorists, leading to a fierce gun battle that lasted for several hours.

The terrain of the Harwan-Ladwas area posed challenges to the operation due to its dense forest cover and rugged slopes. Despite that, the forces used advanced surveillance tools and coordinated tactics to avoid any collateral damage. Drones and thermal imaging equipment helped track the terrorists’ movements in the thick forest, eventually cornering them.

The Army confirmed that all three terrorists were killed in the exchange of fire. Their identities are yet to be officially disclosed, but initial reports suggest that they were affiliated with a Pakistan-based terror group. They were reportedly planning to infiltrate into urban areas and carry out attacks similar to the one witnessed in Pahalgam recently.

A cache of weapons, grenades, and communication devices was recovered from the encounter site. The recovered arms indicate that the terrorists were well-equipped and possibly trained for a larger operation. Investigations are ongoing to determine their exact objectives and connections to other sleeper cells in the region.

Operation Mahadev is being hailed as a significant success in the ongoing efforts to neutralize cross-border terrorism in Jammu and Kashmir. The swift action and minimal casualties on the side of the security forces demonstrate the growing efficiency and preparedness of the counter-insurgency operations in the Valley.

Locals in the Harwan-Ladwas area expressed relief and praised the armed forces for ensuring their safety. The administration has resumed normal activities in the region, though a high alert continues to be in place. Additional combing operations are being carried out in adjoining areas to ensure no other militants are hiding.

This encounter follows a recent uptick in militant activities in Kashmir, particularly after the Pahalgam incident. However, with back-to-back operations and active citizen cooperation, the Indian security forces have shown their resolve to root out terrorism and maintain peace and stability in the region.