WAHEED JEELANI
Pakistan Occupied Kashmir (PoK) has remained in the thick of conflict ever since the very Partition in 1947. While analysing the concerns like political instability, human rights abuses and environmental challenges in the area, we again reach the conclusion that respect for human rights and a commitment to genuine democratic principles are the only way towards lasting peace.
PAKISTAN Occupied Kashmir (PoK), also known as Azad Kashmir, remains a region of geopolitical significance and persistent conflict. Situated in the northern part of the Indian subcontinent, PoK has been a bone of contention between India and Pakistan since the Partition in 1947. We delve into the latest developments, challenges, and concerns surrounding PoK, shedding light on its complex socio-political landscape.
- The historical context
The origins of the conflict over PoK trace back to the Partition of British India in 1947, which resulted in the creation of India and Pakistan. The princely state of Jammu and Kashmir, with a predominantly Muslim population but a Hindu ruler, became a flashpoint. Pakistan claimed the territory based on its religious demography, leading to the first Indo-Pakistani war. The ceasefire line established after the war divided the region into India-administered Jammu and Kashmir and Pakistan-administered Azad Kashmir, with the Line of Control (LoC) serving as the de facto border.
- The latest developments
In recent years, PoK has witnessed several significant developments. One of the notable events was the construction of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), a multi-billion dollar infrastructure project that aims to connect Gwadar Port in Pakistan to China’s Xinjiang region. While Pakistan views CPEC as a game-changer for its economy, India has raised objections, asserting that the project violates its sovereignty by passing through disputed territory.
Furthermore, the region has seen increased militarisation, with both India and Pakistan deploying troops along the LoC. Cross-border skirmishes and ceasefire violations have become frequent, resulting in civilian casualties and exacerbating tensions between the two nuclear-armed neighbours.
Additionally, the issue of human rights abuses in PoK has gained international attention. Reports of arbitrary arrests, extrajudicial killings, and suppression of dissent by Pakistani authorities have raised concerns among human rights organisations and the international community.
- The challenges
PoK faces numerous challenges, ranging from political instability to economic underdevelopment. The region’s status as a disputed territory makes it susceptible to external interference, further complicating efforts for peace and stability.
One of the major challenges is the lack of political representation and autonomy for the people of PoK. Despite being labelled as ‘Azad’ (meaning ‘free’) Kashmir, the region remains under Pakistan’s control, with limited self-governance. The absence of genuine democracy and the dominance of Pakistan’s military establishment undermine the aspirations of the local population.
Economically, PoK lags behind other regions of Pakistan, with inadequate infrastructure and limited access to basic services. Despite the potential economic benefits of projects like CPEC, the benefits have not trickled down to the grassroots level, exacerbating socio-economic disparities and fostering resentment among the local populace.
Moreover, the ongoing conflict with India poses a perpetual security challenge for PoK. The volatile situation along the LoC not only disrupts normal life but also hampers economic development and investment opportunities.
- The concerns
The unresolved status of PoK remains a significant concern for regional stability. The absence of a negotiated settlement between India and Pakistan perpetuates insecurity and impedes the prospects for peace in the region.
Human rights abuses and restrictions on freedom of expression in PoK continue to raise alarms among the international community. The lack of accountability for human rights violations undermines the credibility of Pakistan’s claims of providing autonomy and freedom to the people of PoK.
Furthermore, the militarisation of PoK exacerbates the risk of escalation between India and Pakistan, with potentially catastrophic consequences for the entire region. The absence of diplomatic dialogue and confidence-building measures only exacerbates the existing tensions, leaving PoK caught in the crossfire of larger geopolitical rivalries.
Pakistan Occupied Kashmir (PoK), also known as Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) in Pakistan, remains a region of geopolitical significance and ongoing contention. Situated between India and Pakistan, this area has been a focal point of tension and conflict for decades. Here are some of the latest developments and concerns in Pakistan Occupied Kashmir:
- Political landscape
The political situation in PoK continues to be complex, with Pakistan exerting significant control over the region through a puppet government. While there have been occasional elections, they are widely considered to be lacking in transparency and genuine democratic processes.
Calls for greater autonomy or independence from Pakistan have periodically emerged, but dissent is often met with suppression by Pakistani authorities.
- Human rights issues
Human rights abuses in PoK remain a cause for concern, with reports of arbitrary arrests, enforced disappearances, and restrictions on freedom of expression.
Ethnic and religious minorities, including the indigenous Kashmiri population, often face discrimination and marginalisation.
- China’s role
China’s increasing involvement in the region, particularly through the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), has raised apprehensions about further exploitation of resources and environmental degradation.
The construction of infrastructure projects, including dams and roads, as part of CPEC, has sparked protests from local communities concerned about land acquisition and displacement.
- Militancy and terrorism
PoK continues to serve as a breeding ground for militant groups, some of which have been involved in cross-border attacks in India-administered Kashmir.
Pakistan’s support for these groups has drawn international condemnation and heightened tensions in the region.
- International scrutiny
The international community, including the United Nations, has repeatedly called for a peaceful resolution to the Kashmir conflict and raised concerns about human rights violations in PoK.
Efforts to bring the issue of Kashmir to the forefront of international diplomacy have faced obstacles, with both India and Pakistan resisting external mediation.
- Environmental concerns
PoK is blessed with natural beauty, including lush forests, rivers, and mountains. However, rapid deforestation, unchecked construction, and pollution threaten its fragile ecosystem.
Climate change poses additional challenges, with melting glaciers affecting water resources and exacerbating the risk of natural disasters.
- Economic challenges
Despite its potential for tourism and agriculture, PoK lags behind in economic development, with poverty rates higher than the national average in Pakistan.
Dependence on Pakistan for financial assistance and limited access to international markets hinder economic growth and prosperity in the region.
Well, Pakistan Occupied Kashmir remains a region marked by political instability, human rights abuses and environmental challenges. While efforts to address these issues continue, lasting peace and prosperity in the region can only be achieved through dialogue, respect for human rights, and a commitment to genuine democratic principles. The international community must remain engaged and vigilant in addressing the concerns of the people of PoK and working towards a peaceful resolution of the Kashmir conflict.
