"Unresolved Conflict: The Kashmir Issue and Its Implications for South Asian Stability"

Abstract

Kashmir is a long-standing and significant dispute between Pakistan and India since the partition of British India in 1947. Despite multiple attempts to resolve the issue through bilateral and multilateral channels, it remains unresolved. The two nations have had several wars which have deteriorated their bilateral relations which resulted in military standoff and human right violations. India's attempts to strengthen its control of Kashmir by force have always been challenged by Pakistan, who supports the Kashmiri people's right to self-determination under the UN Resolution of 1948-49. This paper aims to provide an overview of the Kashmir issue by highlighting the economic, political, and territorial importance of the region of Kashmir. Due to its strategic location Kashmir holds significant importance as it is considered as a major source of economic prosperity. The scenic beauty promotes tourism, and this region is also a home for several hydroelectric power projects due to the availability of ample amount of natural water resources. Due to these factors both the countries i.e., Pakistan and India tend to treat Kashmir for their own benefits and interest rather than addressing the catastrophic conditions of the people of this region. The paper also emphasizes the abolition of Article 370 and 35-A by India that endangers the lives of Kashmiri people. It also explains the current situation of Kashmir where India held G-20 conference to show the world that Kashmiri people are in favor to align with India. The project concludes by highlighting the human rights violations in Kashmir which imposes great threat to develop peace in the South Asian region.