Pakistan Occupied Kashmir (POK) refers to the part of the former princely state of Jammu and Kashmir that came under Pakistan’s control following the first India-Pakistan war of 1947-48.
When British India was partitioned in 1947, Jammu and Kashmir was a princely state whose ruler, Maharaja Hari Singh, signed the Instrument of Accession to join India. Following tribal invasions and military conflict, a ceasefire line was established, leaving a portion of the territory under Pakistan’s administration.
India officially considers the entire former princely state of Jammu and Kashmir, including POK, as an integral part of India. Pakistan administers this region through separate administrative arrangements, leading to a long-standing territorial dispute between the two countries.
POK frequently appears in discussions related to national security, foreign policy, border management, and India-Pakistan relations. The issue has also been discussed in Parliament, diplomatic engagements, and international forums over the decades.
Understanding POK requires an appreciation of history, geopolitics, and constitutional developments. It remains one of the most significant and sensitive issues in South Asian politics.
Sources of Information: Google, Online News Portals