The political landscape surrounding Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) has been witnessing a shift in rhetoric and sentiment, with India increasingly asserting its claim over the region. Statements from prominent figures, including Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, indicate a growing conviction that PoK will eventually integrate with India, driven by the aspirations of its residents.
Rajnath Singh has repeatedly stated his belief that the people of PoK themselves will seek to join India. He argues that India's economic development and growing international stature are factors compelling residents of PoK to see their future with India. Citing instances where Pakistani flags were removed in PoK, Singh suggests a rising discontent among the local population. He has also emphasized that PoK "was, is, and will remain a part of India forever".
This sentiment echoes the Indian Parliament's unanimous resolution in February 1994, which asserted India's claim over PoK. External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar has also affirmed that this position transcends party lines and represents the entire nation's viewpoint. He has stated that the return of PoK is necessary to fully resolve the Kashmir issue.
India's approach is based on the premise that PoK is an integral part of the country by virtue of the Instrument of Accession signed by Maharaja Hari Singh of Jammu and Kashmir in 1947. India accuses Pakistan of illegally occupying the territory after a tribal raid engineered by the Pakistani army shortly after independence.
The growing assertion over PoK comes amid strained India-Pakistan relations. Cross-border terrorism remains a significant point of contention, with India accusing Pakistan of sponsoring terrorist activities in the region. In response to a recent terror attack in Pahalgam, India launched "Operation Sindoor," targeting terror camps in Pakistan and PoK. Following the operation, Prime Minister Narendra Modi stated that any dialogue with Pakistan would exclusively focus on terrorism and the return of PoK.
Recent developments indicate a hardening of India's stance towards Pakistan. In addition to military actions, India has taken diplomatic measures, including scaling down diplomatic relations, suspending trade, and halting the Indus Waters Treaty.
Conversely, Pakistan has proposed dialogue with India to resolve disputes, including the Kashmir issue, and has expressed willingness to discuss counterterrorism. However, India has maintained that talks will only occur if they address terrorism and the return of PoK.
Within PoK, there appear to be varied perspectives. Some advocate for self-governance within Pakistan, while others support complete integration with Pakistan. A smaller fraction desires independence from both countries. However, a growing sentiment seems to be emerging, particularly among the younger generation, for reunification with India, drawn by the prospects of economic development and democratic governance.
While the future of PoK remains uncertain, the Indian government's increasingly assertive stance, coupled with reported discontent within the region, suggests a potential shift in the dynamics. Whether this leads to a negotiated settlement or further escalation remains to be seen. However, the statements from Indian leaders clearly signal that India views the integration of PoK as an eventual and inevitable outcome.
