India’s External Affairs Minister, S. Jaishankar, has reaffirmed that Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir (PoK) remains an unfinished national commitment. He emphasized that while many challenges in Jammu and Kashmir have been addressed, the region illegally controlled by Pakistan is the only unresolved issue standing in the way of a complete resolution.

“The only part of Jammu and Kashmir still left to be resolved is the territory illegally occupied by our neighbor, Pakistan,” Jaishankar stated, underscoring India’s firm stance on the matter. His remarks reflect the long-standing position that PoK is an integral part of India and should be restored.

Diplomatic and Strategic Implications

Jaishankar’s statement comes amid growing geopolitical tensions in the region. India has consistently opposed Pakistan’s control over PoK, highlighting repeated violations of territorial sovereignty and human rights concerns in the region.

New Delhi has also raised the issue on international platforms, calling for global recognition of the illegal occupation. While diplomatic engagement with Pakistan remains limited, India’s strategic focus has increasingly shifted towards asserting its historical and legal claim over PoK.

Key Analysis and Data

India’s Historical & Legal Claim: Jammu & Kashmir legally acceded to India in 1947 through the Instrument of Accession, making Pakistan’s occupation of PoK illegal under international law.
UN Resolutions on Kashmir: The UN initially proposed that Pakistan withdraw its troops first, a step that never happened, strengthening India’s position on PoK.
Indian Parliament’s 1994 Resolution: The Parliament unanimously passed a resolution declaring PoK an integral part of India, reinforcing New Delhi’s claim.
Strategic Importance of PoK: The region plays a crucial role in India’s security and regional influence. It is also a key transit route for China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), particularly the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC).
Security Concerns: PoK has become a safe haven for terror groups like Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) and Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM), posing a direct threat to India’s national security.
Pakistan’s Weakening Control Over PoK: Rising protests and dissatisfaction among locals in PoK, coupled with Pakistan’s economic crisis, indicate growing instability in the region.
India’s Strengthening Position: Since the revocation of Article 370 in 2019, India has intensified efforts to integrate Jammu & Kashmir fully, with PoK being the next focus in its long-term strategy.

What’s Next for India’s Stand on PoK?

With Jaishankar labeling PoK as a "national commitment," analysts see this as a strong indication of India’s unwavering approach. While military action remains off the table for now, diplomatic and political pressure on Pakistan is expected to intensify. India has also been working on strengthening infrastructure and governance in Jammu & Kashmir post-Article 370 revocation, reinforcing its hold over the region.

The broader message from India is clear: the status quo of Pakistan’s illegal occupation will not be accepted indefinitely.