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In a major operation on Monday, security forces killed three militants hiding in the Dachigam forest, just outside Srinagar. The encounter, part of “Operation Mahadev”, took place after the Army received inputs about possible terrorist activity in the area. 

While the names of the three men haven’t been confirmed yet, officials are trying to find out if one of them is Suleiman Shah, a Pakistani terrorist believed to be behind the April 22 Pahalgam attack.  

At 1:32 pm, the Army’s Chinar Corps posted on X “Op Mahadev update: Three terrorists have been neutralised in an intense firefight. Operation continues.” 

Later, Lieutenant General Pratik Sharma, head of the Army’s Northern Command, praised the soldiers for their bravery and precision, saying the Army remains committed to keeping Jammu and Kashmir safe and free of terror. 

As questions grew about who the militants were, the Kashmir Zone Police posted at 8:16 pm, “The identification of the neutralised terrorists is being done! Please await further details.” 

Police sources say it may take time to confirm if Suleiman Shah is among the dead. The case is being handled by the National Investigation Agency (NIA), which had earlier confirmed that all three men involved in the Pahalgam massacre were Pakistanis, not locals. 

Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha also praised the forces, saying “Full details will be shared soon. I thank the Army, police, and central forces for their strong and successful efforts.” 

Sources said the Army started the operation after picking up a technical signal in the Harwan forest, similar to one used in the Pahalgam attack. When forces reached the area, a fierce gunfight broke out. 

By the end of the encounter, soldiers had recovered one M4 rifle, two AK rifles, and other weapons from the site. 

Inspector General of Police, V K Birdi, said “Three bodies have been spotted. It’s too early to confirm anything more right now. We’ll share full details once the operation is fully over.” 

This operation is a reminder of the ongoing risks in the region and the courage of those working to keep it safe. 

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