Essay: Kashmir Issue

Introduction:
On 15 August 1947 the British India was announced to be divided into two states India and
Pakistan. Some provinces formed part of Pakistan and some to be part of India. About 562
states were ruled by Princes called Rajas. They were given freedom to accede either to
Pakistan or to remain Independent. About more than 500 states acceded to India and the rest
of Pakistan. But Junagarh, manavader and Kashmir become problems.

Location of Kashmir and People:

Kashmir is a large state located to the north of Pakistan. Its population is overwhelmingly
Muslim but its ruler was Hindu. Some import5ant rivers flow from Kashmir into Pakistan. Its
road and rail link is with Pakistan. Karachi port is its ritual outlet. Its population is closely
linked with that of Pakistan by social, religious and blood ties. India was separated from
Kashmir by lofty mountains. It was provided an access into Kashmir through Batala and
Gurdaspur, both Muslim majority tehsils contiguous to Pakistan, but given to India by
Redcliff.

How was the Problem created:

The Hindu ruler of Kashmir was a Sikh. Dogra general Janak Singh was appointed Prime
Minister. He organized a systematic massacre of the Muslims. There upon the Muslims
started to resist, particularly those of Poonch who were mostly ex-army men. Some tribesman
went there to help their brothers. Kashmir acceded to India on October 27, 1947 and India
forces entered Kashmir. Azad Kashmir forces backed by Pakistan resisted the accession.
Indian made a complaint to the UNO against Pakistan on January1, 1948. Through the efforts
of the UNO January 1, 1949, cease fire took place. The UNOP passed a resolution on January
5, 1949 calling for a free and impartial plebiscite to be conducted under the auspices of the
United Nations. The principles and procedures for the plebiscite were also laid down.

Attempt to solve the Problem:

The plebiscite has not been held so far. India has refused to accept any arbitration or
mediation in this matter. That is how Kashmir continues t5o be disputed territory. The UNO
has yet to implement its decision. Being disappointed with the situation, the Kashmir people
started a struggle for their right to exercise their will accede to Pakistan. Now this struggle is
going on. India is trying to crush this upsurge with the help of seven lac Indian Army.
Millions of Kashmiris has been killed by the Indian Forces. They are still offering their lives
for the independence of their homeland. So far Indian has failed in its aim. Kashmir is now
the burning question of today. The UNO and other super powers are trying to resolve this
issue but so far no fruitful step has been taken.