Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir (PoK), which includes Gilgit-Baltistan and parts of Jammu & Kashmir, has been under Pakistan’s control since 1947. India considers it an integral part of its territory, based on the Instrument of Accession signed in October 1947 by Maharaja Hari Singh. The demand to reclaim PoK has gained traction in India, with political leaders and strategic experts debating possible approaches. This article examines various diplomatic, economic, and military strategies India can use to take back PoK from Pakistan.
1. Diplomatic and Legal Approach
a) Strengthening India’s Stand at International Forums: India can increase diplomatic pressure on Pakistan by raising the issue at global platforms like the United Nations (UN), G20, and BRICS. While Pakistan falsely claims that PoK is a disputed region, India has a strong legal case under the Instrument of Accession (1947), making PoK legally Indian territory.
b) Exposing Human Rights Violations in PoK: Pakistan has been accused of severe human rights violations in PoK, including:
-
- Forced demographic changes
- Suppression of local voices
- Arbitrary arrests and disappearances
India can highlight these issues at the UN Human Rights Council (UNHRC) and expose Pakistan’s illegal occupation to gain global support.
c) Engaging with Global Allies: India can build strategic alliances with the US, France, Russia, Japan, and Australia to counter Pakistan’s narrative. By strengthening ties with countries that have influence over Pakistan, India can push for diplomatic pressure on Islamabad.
2. Economic Measures
a) Economic Sanctions on Pakistan: Pakistan’s economy is already struggling with high inflation, external debt, and a weak currency. India, along with its allies, can push for sanctions on Pakistan to cripple its economic stability, forcing it to reconsider its illegal occupation.
b) Targeting China’s Investments in PoK: China has invested billions of dollars in China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), which runs through PoK. India can work with the US, Japan, and Europe to put economic and political pressure on China to stop its investments in PoK.
c) Cutting Trade Relations: India had already revoked Most Favored Nation (MFN) status for Pakistan in 2019. Further restrictions on trade, especially in the textile and pharmaceutical sectors, could increase Pakistan’s economic struggles.
3. Internal Uprising and Psychological Warfare
a) Supporting Local Resistance in PoK
There is growing resentment among PoK residents against Pakistan due to:
-
- Poor governance
- Lack of development
- Suppression of basic rights
India can covertly support pro-independence movements in PoK to create internal instability for Pakistan.
b) Psychological Warfare via Media
India can use news channels, social media, and digital campaigns to expose Pakistan’s failures in PoK. This can encourage the local population to rise against Pakistan’s occupation.
4. Military Strategy
a) Surgical Strikes and Covert Operations
India’s 2016 surgical strikes and 2019 Balakot airstrikes demonstrated its ability to carry out precise attacks without escalating into full-scale war. Similar covert operations targeting Pakistan’s military infrastructure in PoK can weaken its hold over the region.
b) Blockade of Pakistan’s Supply Routes
Pakistan depends on key routes through Punjab and Sindh for essential supplies. India can strategize to disrupt these routes, creating logistical difficulties for Pakistan’s army in PoK.
c) Full-Scale Military Action (Last Resort)
If Pakistan continues to provoke India through cross-border terrorism, a full-scale military operation could be an option. However, this would require:
-
-
- Strong political will
- International diplomatic support
- Preparation for a two-front war (Pakistan & China)<
-
5. Revoking Article 370 and its Impact on PoK
India revoked Article 370 in August 2019, integrating Jammu & Kashmir completely into India. This move sent a strong message that India is serious about reclaiming PoK. The next step could be passing a parliamentary resolution stating a clear plan to retake PoK.
A Multi-Dimensional Strategy
Reclaiming PoK is possible through a combination of diplomatic, economic, internal, and military strategies. A direct military approach may lead to war, but diplomatic isolation, economic pressure, and internal uprisings can weaken Pakistan’s control over the region. If executed strategically, India can reclaim its lost land without engaging in a large-scale conflict.
