NCJ Number
140889
Journal
Studies in Conflict and Terrorism Volume: 15 Issue: 4 Dated: (October- December 1992) Pages: 283-308
Date Published
1992
Length
26 pages
Annotation
This analysis of the history and current status of the Kashmir conflict concludes that the division of Kashmir along the current line of control is the only viable option for all parties concerned.
Abstract
Issues related to Kashmir have been discussed extensively in international forums during the past decades. The lack of a solution has been due to the equal plausibility of the competing claims of India and Pakistan. Insuperable practical obstacles make independence an inappropriate solution, and another conflict between India and Pakistan will not resolve the issues. Kashmiris should be given the right to decide whether they wish to live either in secular India's Kashmir or in Muslim Pakistani- held Kashmir, along with the right to free movement across what would become the international boundary between India and Pakistan. For Pakistan to concede Kashmir's claim to independence would be tantamount to conceding the superior claim to independence of the provinces of Sind, North-West Frontier, and Baluchistan. For India to agree to Kashmir's independence would amount to reopening the question of the legality of the accession of all other princely states. Those who support Kashmir's independence are supporting Kashmir's secession from India, a position that goes against the rules of international legitimacy and the principles of the charter of the United Nations. Notes