In the aftermath of the deadly Pahalgam attack on April 22, 2025, security forces have been actively conducting search operations in the dense forests of Jammu and Kashmir. The attack, which targeted tourists in the Baisaran Valley near Pahalgam, resulted in the deaths of at least 26 civilians. The victims included 25 Indian tourists and one Nepali citizen.

As part of the ongoing counter-terrorism efforts, a significant number of terrorist hideouts, approximately 70, have been discovered in the hilly forested areas. These hideouts were reportedly camouflaged with rocks, wood, and dry leaves, making them difficult to detect. The security forces have been carrying out extensive operations to dismantle these shelters and apprehend the terrorists responsible for the Pahalgam attack and other acts of violence.

The discovery of these hideouts highlights the continued presence of terrorist infrastructure in the region, despite efforts to quell militancy. The attacks have heightened tensions between India and Pakistan, with New Delhi blaming cross-border elements for the violence.

In response to the Pahalgam attack, the Indian Armed Forces launched "Operation Sindoor" targeting terrorist infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir. The operation involved precision missile strikes on nine terror targets, including strongholds of Lashkar-e-Taiba and Jaish-e-Mohammed. Indian authorities have stated that the strikes were carried out in a focused and non-escalatory manner, avoiding Pakistani military installations.

The government has stated that the intelligence agencies have developed an accurate picture of the planners and backers of the Pahalgam attack. The attack was marked by extreme barbarity, with victims killed in front of their families. The government believes that the attack was driven by the objective of undermining the normalcy returning to Jammu and Kashmir.

Meanwhile, security forces in Jammu and Kashmir recovered five improvised explosive devices (IEDs) from a separate terror hideout in the Poonch district. The IEDs were concealed in tiffin boxes and steel buckets. Communication devices and other incriminating materials were also seized from the site.

The families of the Pahalgam attack victims have expressed their support for the government's actions. Some have called for continued military action until the terrorist threat is fully neutralized.