Was Returning Haji Pir Pass a Strategic Mistake?
The return of Haji Pir Pass after the 1965 war remains a critical strategic debate. Was it a costly mistake for India?
Was Returning Haji Pir Pass a Strategic Mistake?
Pahalgam Attack Reopens Old Wounds
The recent terror attack in Pahalgam, where militants brutally killed 26 civilians—mostly tourists—has once again sent shockwaves across India. Armed with sophisticated AK-47s and M4 carbines, the attackers unleashed chaos at the serene Baisaran grasslands of South Kashmir. It marks the deadliest attack in the region since 2019, leaving countless families across the nation grappling with grief. Yet beyond the immediate tragedy, some experts are pointing to a decision made six decades ago that might have sown the seeds of today’s troubles: India’s return of the Haji Pir Pass after the 1965 Indo-Pakistan War.
Understanding the Strategic Significance of Haji Pir Pass
Tucked within the Pir Panjal range, the Haji Pir Pass is far more than just rugged mountain terrain. At an altitude of 2,637 meters (8,652 feet), it serves as a vital link connecting Poonch in Jammu and Kashmir to Rawalakot in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK). More crucially, it offers a commanding view and access over the routes that militants have historically used to infiltrate into Kashmir.
Defense analysts argue that retaining the Haji Pir Pass could have dramatically altered the security landscape in Jammu and Kashmir. The pass could have not only hampered infiltration attempts but also drastically shortened the distance between Poonch and Uri—from a circuitous 282 kilometers to a mere 56 kilometers. Enhanced logistics, quicker troop movement, and better control over infiltration routes could have greatly strengthened India’s position in the valley.
A Look Back: How India Captured Haji Pir in 1965
The story of Haji Pir’s capture is one of valor and tactical brilliance. During the 1965 war, under Operation Bakshi, the Indian Army, led by Major General SS Kalan and Brigadier ZC Bakshi, successfully seized the pass on August 28. Their success was pivotal; not only did Indian forces withstand fierce counterattacks, but they also secured critical ground that had been lost during the first Indo-Pak conflict in 1947-48.
Veterans like Lieutenant General Ranjit Singh Dayal, who was awarded the Maha Vir Chakra for his role in the operation, have often spoken about the immense strategic advantage India held by capturing the pass. In his later years, Dayal expressed deep regret over its return, highlighting how its possession could have provided India with a significant edge in curbing Pakistani misadventures.
The Tashkent Agreement: A Diplomatic Compromise with Lasting Costs
Despite the blood and bravery spilled to reclaim the Haji Pir Pass, geopolitical calculations soon took precedence. On January 10, 1966, Prime Minister Lal Bahadur Shastri signed the Tashkent Agreement with Pakistan’s President Ayub Khan. As part of the deal, India agreed to return not only the Haji Pir Pass but also approximately 1,920 square kilometers of captured territory.
Critics have long argued that this concession was a strategic blunder. At the time, Shastri was under immense international pressure to de-escalate tensions, especially from superpowers like the United States and the Soviet Union. Yet, in hindsight, the long-term costs of the Tashkent Agreement continue to ripple through India’s security challenges today.
Today’s Reality: A Costly Legacy
The consequences of that diplomatic decision are tragically evident today. The Haji Pir Pass remains a primary infiltration corridor for militants crossing into Kashmir. Every infiltration attempt brings fresh waves of violence, loss, and instability, not just for the armed forces but for countless civilians living in the region.
Recent intelligence reports have confirmed that several major terror strikes over the past two decades have involved routes connected to Haji Pir. It’s a stark reminder that decisions made under duress or international pressure can reverberate across generations.
Was It Truly a Mistake?
While it’s easy to critique historical decisions with the clarity of hindsight, understanding the complexity of the era is crucial. India, newly independent and economically fragile, was navigating Cold War pressures and a precarious neighborhood. Yet, strategic analysts widely agree that retaining critical territory like the Haji Pir Pass could have significantly curtailed Pakistan’s ability to wage its proxy war in Kashmir.
Major military historians such as Srinath Raghavan have often noted that while diplomacy is vital, so too is safeguarding national interests—especially in volatile regions like South Asia. Today’s challenges in Kashmir arguably trace back to the gaps left unaddressed in agreements like Tashkent.
Conclusion: Lessons for the Future
The story of the Haji Pir Pass offers a vital lesson: territorial gains achieved at great human and military cost must be weighed carefully before being bargained away. Strategic depth and security can never be undervalued in regions prone to conflict. As India faces a future where border tensions and infiltration threats remain ever-present, the ghost of Haji Pir looms large, urging policymakers to blend diplomacy with a steadfast commitment to national security.
Disclaimer:
This article is intended for informational purposes only. It reflects interpretations and opinions based on historical events, expert analyses, and available reports. It does not constitute official policy recommendations or positions.
source : News18