Question

Examine any three problems related to the Jammu and Kashmir.

Answer 1

Jammu and Kashmir has experienced complex problems involving territorial disputes, demands for autonomy and prolonged political instability.

1. Territorial Dispute: Since 1947, Pakistan has laid claim to Kashmir, resulting in wars and continuing cross-border terrorism. A large portion of Jammu and Kashmir remains under Pakistan’s illegal occupation (POJK). Although the United Nations intervened, the dispute has not been resolved.

2. Demand for Autonomy: While Article 370 provided special status to the state, many people in Kashmir believed that their autonomy was slowly reduced. Major concerns included the unfulfilled promise of a plebiscite, weakening of Article 370, and the absence of strong democratic institutions, which led to demands for greater autonomy or even separation.

3. Political Instability and Insurgency: Repeated dismissal of elected governments and allegations of rigging in the 1987 elections led to the outbreak of armed insurgency in 1989. This caused widespread violence, loss of life, and the large-scale displacement of Kashmiri Pandits.

These factors together show the regional, national, and international complexity of the Jammu and Kashmir issue.