India’s Firm Stand on Kashmir
External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar’s recent statement at Chatham House in London—asserting that the Kashmir issue is nearly resolved, with the only pending matter being Pakistan’s return of occupied territory—reinforces India’s long-standing stance. New Delhi has never recognized Pakistan’s unlawful occupation of parts of Jammu and Kashmir, a consequence of the Pakistan-backed invasion of 1947. The fate of Kashmir was decisively settled when Maharaja Hari Singh signed the Instrument of Accession, integrating the princely state into India.
However, Pakistan’s calculated aggression disrupted this process. Under the guise of tribal raids, Pakistani forces launched an invasion, attempting to seize Srinagar before Indian intervention. The swift deployment of Indian troops thwarted their advance, securing key areas such as the Srinagar airport. Despite this defense, parts of the region, including Muzaffarabad and Gilgit, fell under Pakistani control, forming what is now termed Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK).
The Unfinished Business of Partition
For decades, India has maintained its claim over PoK, symbolically reserving seats for its representatives in the Jammu and Kashmir Assembly. Meanwhile, the people of PoK continue to endure oppressive governance, longing for reunification with their brethren across the Line of Control. This unresolved chapter of Partition remains a crucial concern for India, and any lasting solution to the Kashmir issue must involve the rightful return of PoK.
Jaishankar highlighted India’s recent achievements in Kashmir, particularly the revocation of Article 370, which dismantled the barriers to full integration with the Indian Union. The subsequent economic resurgence, infrastructure development, and record-breaking tourism boom have reinforced Kashmir’s place within India. Furthermore, the successful conduct of elections with high voter turnout signifies a return to democratic normalcy.
The Path Forward: Restoration and Reunification
While these accomplishments mark significant progress, a truly conclusive resolution requires additional steps. A key priority should be restoring Jammu and Kashmir’s full statehood, reversing its bifurcation into two Union Territories—a move that was always meant to be temporary. The logical next step is to reinstate Jammu and Kashmir as a fully empowered state within India’s democratic framework.
Predictably, Pakistan has opposed Jaishankar’s statement, citing outdated UN resolutions. However, global political dynamics have evolved, and history cannot remain frozen in time. The fundamental truth remains: for a final resolution of the Kashmir issue, PoK must return to where it rightfully belongs—within India. Only then can the chapter of Kashmir’s integration be truly complete.
Author: This news is edited by: Abhishek Verma, (Editor, CANON TIMES)
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