Top Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) commander Altaf Lalli was killed in an encounter with security forces in the Bandipora district on April 25, 2025. The operation marks a significant victory for counter-terrorism agencies and delivers a serious blow to militant operations in North Kashmir.
Altaf Lalli, whose real name was Altaf Ahmad Shah, was among the most wanted militants in the Kashmir Valley. He was classified as a Category A terrorist and was known for orchestrating attacks on security personnel, recruiting local youth into terrorist ranks, and working closely with foreign militants.
How the Bandipora Encounter Happened
Based on specific intelligence inputs, a joint team of the Indian Army, Jammu and Kashmir Police, and the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) launched a cordon and search operation in the Aragam area of Bandipora late Wednesday night. As the forces tightened the perimeter, the hiding terrorist opened fire, triggering a fierce gunfight.
By early Thursday morning, security forces neutralized the terrorist, who was later identified as Altaf Lalli. Arms, ammunition, and other incriminating materials were recovered from the site, confirming his identity and affiliation with Lashkar-e-Taiba.
No casualties were reported among the security personnel, and the operation was carried out with precision and minimal disruption to the civilian population.
Altaf Lalli: Lashkar’s Key Man in North Kashmir
Altaf Lalli had been instrumental in reviving Lashkar-e-Taiba’s influence in North Kashmir, particularly in the districts of Bandipora, Baramulla, and Sopore. Known for his deep network of local contacts and his ability to operate covertly, Lalli managed to evade capture for several years.
He was involved in several high-profile terror attacks, targeted killings, and was said to have played a key role in indoctrinating and recruiting youth into militancy. Officials also believe he was coordinating with Pakistani handlers and helping foreign terrorists infiltrate through the Line of Control (LoC).
His death is being described as a major operational and psychological blow to Lashkar-e-Taiba’s command structure in the region.
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A Boost to Counter-Terrorism Efforts in Kashmir
Top police officials have hailed the operation as a well-coordinated success. Director General of Police, R.R. Swain, stated that Altaf Lalli’s elimination demonstrates the growing effectiveness of intelligence-based operations in Jammu and Kashmir. He praised the synergy between the army, police, and paramilitary forces in ensuring the safe execution of the mission.
The army also noted that such preemptive strikes are crucial, especially with increased militant movement expected ahead of the annual Amarnath Yatra and the summer season, when infiltration attempts from across the border usually rise.
Local Reactions and Immediate Measures
Following the operation, authorities imposed temporary restrictions on mobile internet services in Bandipora as a precautionary measure, though normalcy returned by the evening. Additional security forces have been deployed in nearby villages to maintain peace and prevent any backlash.
Many local residents expressed relief and welcomed the news of Lalli’s elimination, saying it would restore a sense of safety in the area. Community leaders and political voices also acknowledged the operation as a positive step toward restoring normalcy in the region.
What This Means for Security in Jammu and Kashmir
The killing of Altaf Lalli is more than a tactical win—it’s a strategic milestone. With one of LeT’s top local commanders out of the picture, the terror outfit’s grip in North Kashmir is expected to weaken considerably. Officials believe this will disrupt recruitment efforts, demoralize sleeper cells, and hinder coordination between local and foreign terrorists.
This operation is part of a broader strategy to intensify security efforts across Jammu and Kashmir, especially in sensitive regions close to the LoC.
The successful neutralization of Lashkar-e-Taiba commander Altaf Lalli in Bandipora is a clear message that terror networks will not be allowed to thrive in Jammu and Kashmir. With the combined strength of security forces and improved intelligence capabilities, the region is witnessing a shift toward stronger counter-terror measures and increased public confidence in law enforcement.
As the government continues its zero-tolerance approach toward terrorism, the death of a high-value target like Lalli is likely to have far-reaching consequences for militant operations in the Kashmir Valley.