Any potential restoration of occupied Jammu and Kashmir’s statehood, while uncertain, could signify a weakening of India’s unilateral actions taken since August 5, 2019, according to a panel of experts. Amidst internal turmoil in India, increasing international observation, and changing global power dynamics, a new course of action has emerged. While India might try to reshape the account and exploit new situations, Pakistan must capitalize on this path, emphasizing optimism, strategic precision, and an unwavering commitment to the Kashmiri people’s self-determination.
This discussion unfolded during a session titled ‘Restoring Statehood of IOJ and K: A Step Forward or Political Mirage?’ organized by the IPS’ Working Group on Kashmir (WGK). Keynote speaker Dr. Waleed Rasool highlighted the ongoing struggle of Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJ and K) for control, stating that India’s military occupation has enabled manipulation. He emphasized Pakistan’s role in highlighting the Kashmir issue and raising awareness about its legal status in international forums.
Brig (r) Khurshid Khan added that while India’s human rights violations have been under-reported, the May conflict between Pakistan and India has brought renewed international attention to the issue. He urged Pakistan to use the recent UNSC resolution on peaceful dispute settlement to gain diplomatic traction.
Brig (r) Shozeb argued that India’s perceived dominance was challenged after the May standoff, creating a strategic opening for Pakistan. He recommended seeking an advisory opinion from the ICJ on Kashmir, engaging international think tanks, and establishing victim documentation centers to expose Indian atrocities.
Brig (r) Said Nazir observed that Pakistan has effectively reinstated its deterrence, which would be costly for India to challenge. Ambassador (r) Abrar Hussain reiterated the illegality of the August 5, 2019, actions, noting that the Pahalgam incident has further highlighted the Kashmir issue.
Concluding the session, Khalid Rahman emphasized that India has faced increased diplomatic and strategic scrutiny since August 5, 2019. While the future of Kashmir’s statehood remains uncertain, he stressed the importance of Pakistan continuing its support for Kashmiri self-determination.