Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir (PoK): History, Dispute, Current Status

India’s Constitutional Position on PoK

India maintains that:

• PoK is an integral part of India.

• The Indian Parliament passed a resolution in 1994, unanimously declaring PoK as part of its sovereign territory.

• India does not recognise the so-called “Azad Kashmir government” and considers any activities there, including elections, as illegal.

Strategic Importance of PoK

Gateway to China – CPEC

• China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), worth over $60 billion, passes through Gilgit-Baltistan, raising Indian objections over sovereignty violations.

Terror Launchpads and Training Camps

• PoK has served as a launchpad for cross-border terrorism, with terror groups like LeT, JeM, and Hizbul Mujahideen operating freely.

• Indian intelligence has identified terror training camps in areas like Bhimber, Kotli, and Neelum Valley.

Current Developments in 2025: PoK in the Spotlight

Aftermath of Pahalgam Terror Attack (April 2025)

• The attackers in the Pahalgam terror attack, which killed 26, including tourists and soldiers, were reportedly infiltrated from launchpads in PoK.

• India has held Pakistan directly responsible for harbouring and sponsoring terror activities across the LoC.

India’s Renewed Assertion on PoK

• Post-Pahalgam attack, Indian political and military leadership has:

  • Publicly reiterated the goal of reclaiming PoK.

  • Increased surveillance and drone operations near the LoC and across the border.

  • Reportedly carried out precision retaliatory strikes on terror launchpads in PoK.

Diplomatic Tensions

• India has summoned the Pakistani High Commissioner, demanding the dismantling of terror infrastructure in PoK.

• Pakistan responded by suspending key agreements, including the Simla Accord, raising international alarm.

Pakistan’s Stand on PoK

• Pakistan calls PoK “Azad Jammu and Kashmir”, claiming it is self-governing, though in reality, it is heavily controlled by Islamabad.

• It does not allow foreign media or human rights observers unfettered access to the region.

• Allegations of human rights abuses, suppression of dissent, and Shia persecution in Gilgit-Baltistan have been raised globally.

International Standpoint

• The United Nations considers Jammu and Kashmir a disputed territory, urging peaceful resolution.

• However, no major country recognises PoK as a sovereign entity.

• China’s presence in Gilgit-Baltistan through CPEC and BRI projects has complicated the dispute, bringing Beijing into the geopolitical equation.

What Lies Ahead?

• The situation in PoK is increasingly volatile due to terrorism, political instability, and foreign interests.

• The Indian government’s aggressive posturing, supported by public sentiment, may lead to more assertive actions in the future.

• With the global focus on terrorism financing and safe havens, India continues to push for global recognition of PoK as illegally occupied.

Conclusion

Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir (PoK) remains at the heart of the India-Pakistan conflict, both militarily and diplomatically. The Pahalgam terror attack of 2025 has reignited calls in India for firm action, and global stakeholders are watching the region closely. For long-term peace and stability, the dismantling of terror infrastructure in PoK and a diplomatic resolution to the Kashmir issue are essential.