Muzaffarabad, May 29, 2025 – The Center for International Strategic Studies AJK (CISS AJK) hosted Dr. Muzzammil Ayyub Thakur, President of the World Kashmir Freedom Movement, for an exclusive session under the “In Conversation with Thought Leaders” series. The discussion, held on May 29, 2025, focused on the theme “Indian Hegemonic Ambitions: Historical Roots, Regional Repercussions, and the Future of the Kashmir Conflict.”
Dr. Thakur delivered a compelling address, unpacking the ideological, strategic, and geopolitical dimensions of India’s assertive posture in the region. He emphasized that the Hindutva project—India’s ideological engine—draws heavily from extremist frameworks such as Zionism and Nazism, and seeks to eliminate Islamic identity from the subcontinent. This ideological orientation has led to severe and systematic persecution of Kashmiris and Indian Muslims.
India, Dr. Thakur argued, operates as a franchise of terrorism, institutionalizing repression and normalizing violence as a tool of state policy. In doing so, New Delhi has not only destabilized Kashmir but has also created regional security asymmetries.
While underscoring the realist nature of international alliances, Dr. Thakur cautioned that many partnerships—including India-US relations—are forged on the basis of self-interest. However, he noted that the continued persecution of minorities and India’s defiance of international norms could challenge the sustainability of such strategic partnerships, particularly as human rights advocacy gains momentum globally.
In response to India’s escalatory potential, Dr. Thakur recommended a cohesive national strategy involving academic institutions, policymakers, civil society, and media. He warned that India may come back with twice the intensity if unchecked, calling for an annual collective forum of Pakistani think tanks to develop unified messaging, coordinated policy responses, and global advocacy on Kashmir.
Executive Director Dr. Asma Shakir Khawaja thanked Dr. Thakur for his insightful engagement and reaffirmed CISS AJK’s commitment to promoting strategic clarity, peace, and justice in South Asia.
The event concluded with an interactive Q&A session, drawing participation from research faculty of CISS AJK.
