Strategic Rationale Behind India Targeting Bahawalpur: Geopolitical and Security Imperatives

Bahawalpur, a key city in Pakistan’s Punjab province, holds significant strategic, geopolitical, and security relevance. If India were to consider targeting Bahawalpur, whether diplomatically, militarily, or via intelligence means, the primary reason would be linked to national security concerns—especially its association with terrorist networks operating against Indian interests.

Here are the detailed reasons explaining why Bahawalpur might be a focal point:

1. Terrorism and the Presence of Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM)

The most critical reason India views Bahawalpur as a potential target is its long-standing association with the terrorist organization Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM). Founded by Masood Azhar, JeM has been responsible for multiple high-profile terrorist attacks on Indian soil, including:

• The 2001 Indian Parliament attack
• The 2016 Pathankot airbase attack
• The 2019 Pulwama suicide bombing, which killed over 40 CRPF personnel

Bahawalpur is widely acknowledged to house JeM’s headquarters and training camps. These establishments are believed to operate with a degree of impunity, posing a direct threat to India’s internal security.

2. Symbolic Strike on Terror Infrastructure

A strike or tactical operation targeting Bahawalpur would send a powerful message—both domestically and internationally—that India is willing to act decisively against terror groups at their roots. After the Balakot airstrikes in 2019 (a response to Pulwama), there was speculation that India could extend its reach to Bahawalpur, the ideological and operational heartland of JeM.

3. Psychological and Political Impact

Targeting Bahawalpur would have a symbolic value. It could erode the morale of extremist groups and challenge the Pakistani state’s narrative of plausible deniability regarding terror safe havens. Politically, it would also boost the Indian leadership’s image as being tough on terrorism—especially ahead of elections or in response to public outrage after terror attacks.

4. Geostrategic Significance

Bahawalpur lies in close proximity to India’s western borders and is within reach of Indian missile and airstrike capabilities. It also borders important routes that lead into Pakistan’s core Punjab region. The city’s infrastructure and communication nodes make it strategically vulnerable and valuable.

5. Pressure Tactic Against Pakistan’s Deep State

India may target Bahawalpur to exert pressure on the Pakistani military and Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI), which are often accused of harboring or shielding terror outfits. Demonstrating an ability to strike deep within Pakistan could compel its military establishment to reconsider their support or tolerance for groups like JeM.

6. International Legitimacy Post-Pulwama Doctrine

Post-2019, India has evolved a policy of pre-emptive and retaliatory self-defense. Striking Bahawalpur could fall under this doctrine if India believes an imminent threat is emanating from the area. Such a move could be framed within the scope of international law if presented as a counter-terrorism operation.

Conclusion

Bahawalpur’s prominence as a terror stronghold, especially for JeM, makes it a critical node in India’s security calculus. While any direct action carries the risk of military escalation between two nuclear powers, the strategic logic behind targeting Bahawalpur is rooted in neutralizing a persistent and potent threat to Indian national security.