Kashmir’s Autonomy Stripped: Strategic Responses and Challenges for Pakistan

Kashmir’s Autonomy Stripped: Strategic Responses and Challenges for Pakistan

On 5th August 2019, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), aligned with the ideological goals of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), used its parliamentary majority to revoke Articles 370 and 35A of the Indian Constitution, which had granted Jammu and Kashmir (J&K) special autonomy. This move, hailed by the BJP as a step toward national integration, was widely criticized by civil society and opposition parties as undemocratic and potentially destabilizing. The revocation raised serious concerns, as Kashmir’s status remains a bilateral issue between India and Pakistan and is still under the United Nations (UN) framework. The decision was made without consulting the Kashmiri people or the state legislature, undermining democratic principles and disregarding the region's unique political and cultural identity.


By Adil Nawaz Khan

In response to India’s revocation of Article 370, Pakistan launched a comprehensive and multi-dimensional campaign to draw global attention to the plight of the Kashmiri people and condemn India’s actions. A rare national consensus emerged across Pakistan, with political leaders, civil society and citizens uniting in their condemnation. Social media platforms amplified the voices of Kashmiris, while Pakistan intensified diplomatic efforts to internationalize the issue. Key decisions by the National Security Committee included downgrading diplomatic ties, recalling Pakistan’s High Commissioner and expelling India’s High Commissioner. Pakistan also suspended cultural exchanges, including the Samjhauta Express train service and halted all trade with India.


'For furthering its cause, Pakistan must strategically advance its diplomatic agenda on international platforms. One key approach would be to form a multi-party committee of foreign policy experts to craft a robust, long-term strategy for bringing the Kashmir issue to the forefront in global discussions. While the International Court of Justice (ICJ) may not have direct jurisdiction over the matter, Pakistan can seek an advisory opinion if it garners significant international support. Pakistan can pursue action at the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC), highlighting human rights violations in Jammu and Kashmir, which represent a direct violation of international law and norms. This multi-pronged strategy would enable Pakistan to effectively mobilize international pressure on India while reinforcing the legitimacy of the Kashmiri struggle.


Diplomatic engagement with friendly states is another essential avenue. For example, China has previously raised the Kashmir issue before the UN Security Council (UNSC). Pakistan should encourage similar actions by other allies. Leveraging the influence of global opinion makers students, academics, human rights activists, researchers and journalists is another vital strategy. Pakistan can organize debates, seminars and discussions at universities and research institutions worldwide, drawing attention to the abrogation of Kashmir’s special status.


The role of international organizations, especially the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC), is significant in this context. The OIC, as a body representing Muslim-majority countries, should be mobilized to address the Kashmir dispute, given J&K’s Muslim-majority demographic. Pakistan should push for a special OIC meeting dedicated solely to Kashmir, highlighting human rights abuses and calling for the implementation of UN resolutions on the matter. Moreover, the OIC’s platform can amplify Pakistan’s stance and encourage collective action among member states to exert pressure on India. The overseas Pakistani community, especially students studying abroad, can serve as crucial ambassadors for the Kashmir cause. They have the unique opportunity to engage with global audiences, raise awareness about human rights violations in Kashmir and influence opinion makers in their host countries. By actively participating in discussions, writing op-eds and organizing events, these individuals can ensure that the voices of Kashmiris are heard far and wide.


Pakistan must also advocate for the deployment of UN peacekeeping missions to J&K to protect civilians and monitor human rights violations. Simultaneously, the country’s political experts and media should expose the Indian government’s atrocities against the Kashmiri people, both nationally and internationally. Talk shows, news reports and documentaries can be powerful tools to highlight the Modi regime’s actions and garner international sympathy for the Kashmiri struggle. While international forums and multilateral diplomacy are vital, Pakistan should not overlook the importance of bilateral engagement. Although past mediation offers, such as the one by former U.S. President Donald Trump, have not materialized, Pakistan should remain open to dialogue. Table talks with India, facilitated by neutral mediators, could pave the way for a peaceful resolution, provided there is a genuine commitment from both sides.


Recently, Pakistan’s leadership has reiterated its unwavering support for the Kashmiri people. On 2nd May 2024, Chief of Army Staff General Asim Munir emphasized Pakistan’s moral, political and diplomatic support for Kashmiris, criticizing the global silence over India’s aggression. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has also underscored the need for a peaceful resolution, aligning with the sentiments expressed during 5th February Kashmir Solidarity Day observances.


Pakistan’s civil and military leadership, along with all political parties, must unite to raise the Kashmir issue on international platforms such as the UN and other global forums. A coordinated effort, especially on symbolic occasions like 5th February Kashmir Day, can strengthen the bond between Pakistan and the Kashmiri people while garnering global attention. Every Pakistani citizen can contribute to this cause, acting as an ambassador for Kashmiris and highlighting their plight through diplomatic missions, international media and public discourse. Utilizing international forums, alliances and media, Pakistan must continue to pressurize India to reverse its illegal actions and strive for a peaceful resolution to the Kashmir dispute. By sustaining and intensifying these efforts, Pakistan can keep the Kashmir issue alive on the global stage, ensuring that the voices of the oppressed are not silenced.


The writer is a research intern at the Kashmir Institute of International Relations (KIIR) and serves as the Event Manager of HEAL Pakistan, an initiative dedicated to fostering humanity, education empowerment, awareness and leadership

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