Should Kashmiris Supporting Pakistan Be Sent to Pakistan?

The ongoing India-Pakistan dispute over Kashmir has been a focal point of international relations for decades. A heated question that often emerges in this context is: should Kashmiris who support Pakistan be deported to that country?

Context and History

In 1971, following India's liberation of Bangladesh, Pakistan faced a significant challenge when

it abandoned a million Urdu-speaking people who were loyal to Pakistan and had fought alongside their army. These people were left to the mercy of the Bengalis. This humanitarian crisis highlighted the vulnerability of these people and set a precedent for potential deportations today.

Religious and Cultural Considerations

The argument proposed by some asserts that if these individuals remain non-believers, they would face rejection in Pakistan. However, the same logic should apply to non-Kashmiri leaders who have supported Pakistan. For instance, leaders like Mani Shankar Aiyer, Navjot Singh Siddhu, and even Rahul Gandhi have shown allegiance to Pakistan and associated ideologies. Why should these individuals be excluded from deportation if Kashmiri separatists are?

Broader Context and International Implications

The deportation of individuals with ties to Pakistan raises several ethical and practical concerns. It is not merely a local issue but has international implications. Similarly, the Muslim population in India who share religious or cultural ties with Pakistan could face similar pressures for deportation. This would replicate the historical and contemporary tensions observed with the Hindu populations in India who share ties with Nepal.

Furthermore, Pakistan's stance on deportations is also a severe concern. Historically, even dead bodies of Pakistan-based terrorists and soldiers killed by Indian forces have not been accepted by Pakistan. This refusal underscores the practical obstacles and the vulnerability of such an action.

Strategic and Diplomatic Implications

Deporting a select few Kashmiri separatists or individuals supportive of Pakistan would be a counterproductive move. Firstly, it would internationalize an internal Indian issue, similar to how Pt. Nehru dealt with the integration of Kashmir after 1947 by bringing the dispute to the United Nations. The consequences of this move would likely be counterproductive and detrimental to India's international image.

Instead of resorting to deportation, a more strategic and diplomatic approach is needed. This could involve:

Engaging in dialogue and negotiation with Pakistan to address the root causes of the conflict. Developing socio-economic initiatives to improve conditions in Kashmir and mitigate separatist sentiments. Implementing internal security measures to address subversive activities while maintaining human rights standards. Promoting regional cooperation and stability to ensure a peaceful resolution.

Conclusion

While the issue of deporting individuals supportive of Pakistan in Kashmir is emotionally charged, it requires a nuanced and strategic approach. International law, human rights considerations, and the potential for international backlash make this a non-viable option. Instead, a holistic and diplomatic strategy that addresses the underlying issues is the way forward to resolve the Kashmir conflict.

Keywords: Kashmir, India-Pakistan Dispute, Deportation