Massive protest in Pakistan administered part of Jammu and Kashmir known as Azad Jammu and Kashmir against sky high inflation, demanding to end the force division of the state and allow people to live in peace.

 

 

 

Whether the people of Jammu and Kashmir can hope to end their miseries after 75 years is a complex question with no easy answer. There are a number of factors that will need to be considered, including the following:

 

• The political situation in the region: Jammu and Kashmir is a dispute  between India and Pakistan, and both countries claim it in its entirety ignoring the very basic fact the principle of decolonization. Therefore Indo-Pak territorial claim is outdated colonial claim without recognize the people of the State of Jammu and Kashmir to decide by themselves.This has led to decades of conflict and instability, which has had a devastating impact on the lives of the people of Jammu and Kashmir.

• The role of major powers: The United States, China, and other major powers have a significant interest in the Kashmir dispute. China is the second biggest economy of the world and is sharing northern border with the state of Jammu and Kashmir. Their involvement in the region could play a key role in determining the future of Jammu and Kashmir.

• The will of the people of Jammu and Kashmir: The fact that ultimately, the future of Jammu and Kashmir will be decided by the people who live there. Their voices must be heard and respected in any resolution of the conflict.

The recent developments in the area are certainly significant. The massive protest in Azad Jammu and Kashmir, the US Ambassador's visit to Gilgit Baltistan, and the Saudi Foreign Minister's statement at the OIC all suggest that there is a growing international awareness of the Kashmir issue. However, it is too early to say whether these developments will lead to a meaningful resolution to end the war like situation which has been used to counter any peace movement in the region for the last 75 years.

If the people of Jammu and Kashmir on both sides of the divide are to end their miseries after 75 years, there will need to be a concerted effort from all stakeholders to find a peaceful and lasting solution which in our opinion to allow people from both divides to elect their representatives who can agree upon the future draft constitution and after obtaining consent upon the draft constitution from China, India and Pakistan to be put before people for general vote to approve or to reject it. This will require India and Pakistan to come to the negotiating table and make significant concessions. It will also require the international community to play a constructive role in supporting the peace process.

Here are some specific steps that could be taken to move towards a resolution of the Kashmir conflict:

• India and Pakistan should resume dialogue: This is the first and most important step. The two countries need to talk to each other if they want to resolve the conflict and they both agreed-up in Simla Agreement as well.
  

• India should lift the restrictions in Jammu and Kashmir: The restrictions on freedom of movement, assembly, and expression that have been imposed on the people of Jammu and Kashmir have created a climate of fear and distrust. Lifting these restrictions would help to create a more conducive environment for dialogue.

• Pakistan should stop supporting terrorist groups: Pakistan has been accused of providing support to religious extremists and terrorist groups that operate in Jammu and Kashmir. This needs to stop if there is to be any progress on the peace process.

• The international community should play a constructive role: The international community can play a constructive role by supporting the peace process and encouraging India and Pakistan to come to the negotiating table.

It is important to note that there are no guarantees that the people of Jammu and Kashmir will end their miseries after 75 years. The conflict is complex and there are many challenges that will need to be overcome. However, the recent developments, there is some hope for the future. If all stakeholders are willing to work together, it is possible to find a peaceful and lasting solution to the conflict allowing billions of people of the region to hope to reap the fruits of peace dividend against war.