New Delhi: In a significant address at Chatham House in London, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar underscored India’s progress in resolving the Kashmir issue, emphasizing that the final hurdle lies in reclaiming areas under Pakistani occupation. Jaishankar highlighted India’s multifaceted approach to Kashmir, which includes the removal of Article 370, the restoration of economic activity and social justice, and the successful conduct of elections in the region. These steps, he noted, have significantly advanced the resolution process, with the return of Pakistani-occupied territories being the last piece of the puzzle.
Jaishankar’s remarks reflect a broader narrative of India’s efforts to stabilize and integrate Kashmir. He outlined three key steps taken by the Indian government: the removal of Article 370, which marked a significant shift in governance; the restoration of economic activity and social justice, aimed at improving living standards; and the holding of elections with high voter turnout, which demonstrated the region’s willingness to engage in democratic processes. These measures have not only enhanced stability but also brought the issue of Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (POK) to the forefront of national discourse.
The scrapping of Article 370 in 2019 was pivotal in refocusing attention on POK, an area that Jaishankar emphasized is integral to India. He noted that every Indian political party is committed to ensuring POK’s return, reflecting a national consensus on the issue. Jaishankar’s comments were part of a broader discussion on India’s global role and its relations with other countries, highlighting the interconnectedness of domestic and foreign policy objectives.
