Security forces have neutralised three terrorists during a high-intensity encounter in the Lidwas area near Dara, on the outskirts of Srinagar. The terrorists are believed to have been responsible for the Pahalgam attack that claimed 26 lives over three months ago, making this a significant breakthrough in the counter-terrorism operations in Jammu and Kashmir.

Three Terrorists Killed in Operation Mahadev Near Srinagar: Army

The gunfight erupted on Monday morning after armed forces launched a large-scale operation, codenamed Operation Mahadev, based on intelligence suggesting militant presence in the dense forested region near Mount Mahadev and the Mulnar area of Harwan. The Indian Army’s Chinar Corps confirmed the encounter, stating, “Three terrorists have been neutralised in an intense firefight. Operation continues.”

According to officials, the terrorists were “high-value” targets and affiliated with The Resistance Front (TRF), a shadow group of the Pakistan-based Lashkar-e-Taiba. The group had previously claimed responsibility for the brutal Baisaran Valley killings, where attackers selectively targeted and executed non-Muslim male tourists enjoying a picnic in the picturesque area often dubbed “mini Switzerland.”

Encounter Breaks Out in Lidwas Meadows, Operation Underway: Army

The Army spokesperson from the Chinar Corps revealed that the firefight took place in the Lidwas meadows of Dara, a challenging and rugged terrain frequently visited by trekkers. The Army confirmed that “contact was established in General Area Lidwas. The operation is in progress.”

Sources disclosed that two days before the encounter, Army intelligence intercepted suspicious communication activity in the jungle belt of Dachigam. This tip-off was corroborated by local nomadic groups who provided additional insight into possible militant movement, which led to the launch of the joint security operation.

Forces Corner Militants After Gunfire Exchange in Lidwas Operation

Personnel from the Army, Jammu and Kashmir Police, and Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) quickly mobilised in response, deploying additional reinforcements and cordoning off the suspected hideout. Reports from the ground indicated that two distinct rounds of gunfire were exchanged before the forces succeeded in surrounding and eliminating the militants.

Earlier in the day, the Chinar Corps posted on its official X account: “OP MAHADEV – Contact established in General Area Lidwas. Operation in progress.” As the day progressed, an update confirmed the elimination of the three suspects but noted that “the operation is not over yet.”

Terrorist Encounter Coincides with Parliament Debate on Pahalgam Attack

The timing of this counter-terror success coincides with Parliament’s scheduled debate on the Pahalgam tragedy and the government’s broader strategic counter-offensive, Operation Sindoor. The Centre has faced mounting criticism from opposition leaders for its delayed action against those responsible for the April bloodshed.

With Monday’s developments, officials believe a significant blow has been dealt to cross-border terror networks operating under aliases like TRF. A senior military official said, “The neutralisation of these terrorists marks a significant step toward justice for the victims of the Pahalgam attack and demonstrates the effectiveness of coordinated intelligence-led operations.”