New Delhi, Jan 30 (NationPress) The chief of the Pakistan Army, Field Marshal Asim Munir, visited the Bahawalpur garrison earlier this week, which was presented as a standard inspection. However, analysts monitoring Pakistan suggest that this visit was more about restoring the spirit of the Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM) than about military operations at the garrison.

Bahawalpur is the stronghold of the JeM, previously home to its headquarters before it was destroyed during Operation Sindoor.

Following the operation aimed at avenging the Pahalgam attack, the JeM's morale has significantly decreased.

What is concerning for the Pakistan army is the JeM's apparent reluctance to regroup.

During the operation, numerous militants were killed, including several family members of the JeM leader, Masood Azhar. This has left the organization's leadership feeling despondent, leading to their inaction.

The JeM is significant for the Pakistan army due to its capability to conduct substantial attacks. Compared to other terror groups, the JeM has a more dedicated base, making their operational readiness crucial for the Pakistani establishment.

An official from the Intelligence Bureau mentioned that the JeM's leadership is dissatisfied with both the ISI and the Pakistan army.

Despite attempts to engage with figures such as Azhar, they have shown little willingness to cooperate. They feel betrayed by the army's perceived failure to provide protection and are frustrated with the army's outreach to India for a ceasefire during Operation Sindoor, according to the official.

While the visit aimed to uplift the JeM's spirits, Munir also participated in events highlighting Pakistan’s advancements in technology. He observed demonstrations of electronic warfare systems, surveillance technologies, and drones.

In his speech, he frequently addressed the theme of mental transformation, targeting both the terror groups and his own army, whose reputation is currently challenged.

Observers noted that Munir's message was directed at the JeM, as the display of advanced technology and discussions about mental transformation were intended to reassure the JeM that the Pakistan Army could safeguard them.

Leading up to this event, several army officials attempted to encourage the JeM leadership. Munir's visit indicates that his efforts to engage the group have not been successful. Experts suggest his choice of Bahawalpur for this morale-boosting visit reflects the army's desperation.

Officials noted that Asim Munir attempted to frame his visit to Bahawalpur as a routine check on a corps headquarters. This location is not only politically vital but also ideologically significant, serving as the birthplace of the JeM's ideology and a long-standing site for planning attacks against India. The Indian armed forces' action during Operation Sindoor has shaken the JeM and the establishment alike.

For the army, particularly for Munir, this has become a matter of prestige, which prompted his decision to make this visit, officials concluded.