Union Home Minister Amit Shah reignited the national discourse around Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) by firmly stating, “PoK is ours, and no power can stop us from taking it back.” His statement came during a keynote address at the Rising Bharat 2025 Summit, setting a decisive tone on one of India’s most sensitive geopolitical issues.
Speaking to a packed audience of policymakers, diplomats, academics, and journalists, Shah emphasized that the dream of an undivided India remains alive, and reiterated the Centre’s commitment to national unity and territorial integrity. His remarks were met with thunderous applause, signaling strong public sentiment in support of the government’s firm stance on PoK.
The Historical Context
Shah’s assertion taps into a longstanding sentiment within Indian politics. Pakistan-occupied Kashmir—referred to in official Indian terminology as “illegally occupied territories”—has remained a core concern of India’s foreign and security policy since 1947, when Pakistan-backed tribal militias invaded the princely state of Jammu and Kashmir.
While Article 370 was abrogated in 2019 and Jammu & Kashmir was reorganized into Union Territories, the question of PoK has remained largely rhetorical in public discourse—until now. Amit Shah’s address sought to push this issue back into the center of strategic conversation.
A Strategic Statement, Not Just Symbolism
By stating “It’s ours”, Shah didn’t merely make a nationalistic assertion—he was signaling a strategic shift in India’s tone and possibly its future posture. Analysts believe the comment was intended not only for domestic audiences but also as a clear message to Pakistan and the international community.
In his address, Shah underscored that the Modi-led government has taken “historical steps” to strengthen national security, including decisive action against terrorism, enhanced border infrastructure, and a new approach to Jammu & Kashmir’s development. He argued that the government’s “muscular diplomacy” and “zero-tolerance” stance on terrorism have changed the way the world views India’s internal security matters.
Backed by Policy Moves and Ground Action
Shah’s statement did not emerge in a vacuum. Over the past few years, the Indian government has steadily laid groundwork that supports a more assertive Kashmir policy:
- Maps released by India post-2019 clearly show PoK and Gilgit-Baltistan as integral parts of Indian territory.
- Indian leaders have consistently referred to PoK during parliamentary sessions and public rallies as a “lost limb” that must be restored.
- Infrastructure development along the Line of Control (LoC), including advanced roads, tunnels, and surveillance systems, has increased India’s operational capabilities in the region.
Reactions and Regional Implications
Shah’s remarks drew swift responses. While Pakistan predictably condemned the statement and labeled it “provocative,” Indian political circles largely backed the sentiment. Many political analysts see this as India asserting itself from a position of strength, particularly given the recent geopolitical shifts in South Asia and the weakening of Pakistan’s internal political and economic stability.
Defense experts also noted that while military action may not be imminent or advisable, keeping the pressure alive on the diplomatic and political front is a crucial tactic. “Amit Shah’s statement keeps the issue alive internationally and sends a reminder to Pakistan that India has not forgotten,” said retired Lt. Gen. Syed Ata Hasnain.
Rising Bharat: A Platform for Assertive Nationalism
The Rising Bharat 2025 Summit, organized to discuss India’s trajectory in governance, defense, economy, and global diplomacy, became the perfect stage for Shah’s declaration. His speech reflected the theme of a confident, assertive India that is no longer hesitant to stake its claim on historical truths.
As India moves towards its centenary of independence in 2047, Shah’s statement is likely to echo in political campaigns, international debates, and security discussions. Whether symbolic or strategic, one thing is clear—the issue of PoK is no longer in the background.
In Amit Shah’s words, “The world has changed. India has changed. And soon, history will change too.”