Question

With reference to Kashmir as the bone of contention between India and Pakistan, analyse any four causes of the first Indo-Pak War of 1947-48.

Answer 1

Following independence, Kashmir led to the first Indo-Pak War (1947–1948). A Hindu Maharaja (Hari Singh) controlled the Muslim-majority princely kingdom of Kashmir. Pakistan and India both desired it. These are the four primary reasons:

1. Partition rules for princely states: In 1947, princely states had the option to remain independent or join Pakistan or India. The Maharaja of Kashmir initially desired independence. Due to its lengthy border and the majority of its population being Muslim, Pakistan considered Kashmir to be significant. They rejected its joining India.
2. Tribal invasion from Pakistan: Supported by Pakistan, Pashtun tribesmen (lashkars) from Pakistan’s border regions invaded Kashmir in October 1947. Before the Maharaja joined India, they aimed to take it as soon as possible. They caused terror and unrest by attacking cities like Muzaffarabad and getting close to Srinagar.
3. Maharaja’s accession to India: The invasion left him weak. He sought India for military assistance. India agreed, but only if Kashmir joined the country. On October 26, 1947, he signed the Accession Instrument. Indian soldiers entered the area to combat the invaders. This angered Pakistan.
4. Religious and strategic reasons: Pakistan believed that Kashmir should join it due to the majority of Muslims (as in the two-nation theory). Due to its advantageous location and secular motivations, India desired it. For both, it was essential to their future. The battle was sparked by this deep divide.