There are two ways to eradicate terrorism. One is to physically eliminate terrorists and destroy their combat systems. The other is to erase or push back the ideology of extremism.
The first method provides an immediate solution, but in some cases, it is not a permanent cure. The second method provides a permanent solution, but it is difficult to achieve. When there is no grand or deep ideology behind extremism and a mere movement is its lifeblood, victory over the terrorists is easy.
An example of the first method is the crushing of Khalistani terrorists in Punjab and the elimination of the LTTE in Sri Lanka. Both of these are instances where victory was achieved over terrorism. It is difficult to find clear examples for the second method. When terrorism is not just a movement but religious mandates also become the root of terror, the problem shifts to an ideological level. It is difficult to eliminate this type of problem without religious or ideological reform.
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