This research paper aims to apply the population centric counterinsurgency strategy developed from the Western experiences with insurgencies to the case of Kashmir in the Global South. It is found...Show moreThis research paper aims to apply the population centric counterinsurgency strategy developed from the Western experiences with insurgencies to the case of Kashmir in the Global South. It is found that the counterinsurgency in Kashmir qualifies as people-centric to a large extent with attention given to people’s needs by conducting elections, addressing root causes of insurgencies, gaining legitimacy through provision of incentives and securing civilians through use of force. It is also found that the conduction of elections which is deemed as a successful people-centric strategy to gain legitimacy only applies to certain extent in Kashmir as the discontentment still prevails with demands of more autonomy. This research further explores the paradox of use of force in a people-centric approach with the human right violation claims on the army. By applying a theory based on Western experiences, this paper helps gain theoretical insights and lessons from the Indian counterinsurgency campaign, hence adding to the literature on irregular warfare.Show less
