Narinder Kumar and Hakim Singh
Jammu and Kashmir (J&K), especially Kashmir, is one of the world’s most militarized zones. It has remained a focal point in India-Pakistan’s bitter relations, sparking three wars since 1947 due to conflicting strategic interests.
Pakistan’s ongoing interference, including its control over Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir (POK), has hindered governance and fueled local discontent. The Indian government’s mismanagement of internal issues and limited civil society engagement have deepened public mistrust. The unilateral revocation of J&K’s special status has intensified divisions, weakened decentralization, and allowed external forces to exploit the unrest. Despite efforts at democratization, political infighting and recurring violence—such as the recent Pahalgam attack—have stalled development, worsened inequality, and perpetuated instability.
Strategically, located at the crossroads of South and Central Asia and bordered by nuclear-armed Pakistan and China, Jammu and Kashmir holds immense geopolitical importance. Its proximity to Afghanistan further enhances its value as a gateway to Central Asia. The region’s disputed status continues to fuel Indo-Pak tensions, frequent skirmishes, and insurgencies, amplifying its volatility. The conflict’s implications go beyond regional borders, affecting global trade and energy routes. Initiatives like China’s Belt and Road and the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor underscore its connectivity. Persistent violence in J&K challenges international counter-terrorism efforts, necessitating coordinated global strategies to ensure security and stability in this critical region.
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