Opinion | What is happening in POK is Shameful.

Compare and Contrast Between Jammu & Kashmir and Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir

Various videos circulating on social media depict human rights violations in POK and demand immediate support and intervention from world leadership. The situation in POK is worsening day by day. Pakistan is now fearful as its military feels the heat and anger of its own people. The current situation conveys that people in POK are in do-or-die situations and are demanding separation from the brutality of Pakistan. India need not intervene, nor make any advertisements. People of POK will cross the border LOC themselves due to human rights violations, crises, and poverty.

POK is important, and Pakistan is taking advantage of it while neglecting the common people of POK. It has tourism potential that has been neglected due to the launching pads and shelters for terrorist training and accommodations. On one side, POK, under the illegal occupation of Pakistan and barbarism, has been a victim of human rights violations for decades now, while the people of the Jammu and Kashmir state of India are enjoying the benefits of democracy by providing democratic rights even to jailed Er Rasheed. People are enjoying the festival of democracy with huge rallies and slogans in the elections. The two parts of Kashmir are an eye-opener for the world now, with quite different situations and developments.

POK’s youth are dissatisfied with Pakistan’s political role, which they feel is oppressive. Seventy years have elapsed, but they still feel unidentified. Pakistan’s constitution neither recognizes them as sovereign nor confers provincial stature upon them in the country’s national constitution. I’m quoting Mr. Waqas Ali’s research paper titled ‘The Impact of Conflict on Young People in POK.’ Young people in POK have serious concerns about Pakistan’s unnecessary domination over the political and administrative setup of POK. Young people question the uneven and off-centered constitutional relationship between POK and Pakistan. The POK Interim Constitution Act of 1974 drew criticism—youth strongly believe it excludes the people of POK from decision-making because the “Azad Jammu and Kashmir Council” acts as a supra-constitutional and paramount authority.

The fact is that the PoK’s people are under oppression. They and their institutions are under despotic surveillance of ISI and Pakistan’s army. Even their print, electronic, and social media are under severe vigilance. If anyone is found opening his mouth against the tyrannous Army or ISI, unknown faces carry him off as he was never born on the earth. Inflicting brutality and barbarism upon those who dare open their lips is the barbaric law there.

Contrary to this, on this side of Kashmir, peace, prosperity, and development have been central to government initiatives. Aside from infrastructure improvements and economic changes, the region has prioritized inclusive growth and social welfare programs to benefit marginalized groups. Indian Kashmir’s commitment to democratic government and participatory decision-making reflects its inclusive spirit and pluralistic principles. Beyond election systems, the region has adopted decentralized governance approaches that allow local groups to direct their own development.

In stark contrast, POK remains mired in authoritarian governance and political repression, with opposition suppressed and fundamental liberties curtailed. The absence of free and fair elections, as well as the subversion of democratic institutions by vested interests, undermine governing structures’ legitimacy and erode public trust. The international community must amplify calls for democratic reform and accountability in POK, advocating for the establishment of transparent electoral processes and independent oversight mechanisms to safeguard the rights and freedoms of its inhabitants.

In considering the contrasting landscapes of Jammu and Kashmir and Pakistani illegal occupation in POK, it’s evident that each region has taken divergent paths in terms of economic development, cultural preservation, and overall societal well-being.

Firstly, the economic developments of the two regions present a stark opposition. J&K, under Indian governance, has actively pursued economic diversification and investment promotion, leveraging its strategic location and natural resources to attract both domestic and global investors. Initiatives such as the Udaan scheme have aimed to empower youth with skills and employment opportunities, fostering innovation and entrepreneurship. In contrast, POK grapples with inefficiency, stagnation, and systematic corruption, compounded by a lack of open investment policies and regulatory frameworks. This inhibits investor confidence and stifles economic growth, leaving the region heavily reliant on outdated industries and traditional sectors.

Moreover, the cultural landscapes of J&K and POK reflect differing approaches to heritage preservation and identity promotion. Indian Kashmir takes pride in its diverse cultural legacy, fostering syncretic customs and a pluralistic mindset that promotes social cohesion. Efforts such as heritage site restoration and cultural festival promotion not only safeguard Kashmir’s legacy but also drive tourism and economic development. Conversely, POK’s cultural heritage faces endangerment due to neglect and marginalization by Pakistani authorities. State-sponsored narratives often overshadow the region’s distinct identity, eroding residents’ sense of belonging and cultural pride. The repression of indigenous languages and traditions further exacerbates this erosion, perpetuating a cycle of assimilation and loss.

The disparate realities of J&K’s progress and POK’s challenges underscore the urgent need for addressing fundamental grievances and injustices in the latter. While Indian Kashmir represents resilience, inclusivity, and democratic values, POK remains mired in instability, repression, and human rights violations. It’s imperative for the international community to advocate for a resolution to POK that prioritizes the rights and aspirations of all Kashmiris within Pakistan’s boundaries, including their right to plebiscites.
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