Kashmir: the way forward - Part II

India’s case on Kashmir is based on illegal occupation, which is attached to a questionable Instrument of Accession (IOA) supposedly given by Maharaja Hari Singh. Pakistan’s case, on the other hand, is based on the principle of the ‘right of self-determination’ of the people of Jammu & Kashmir. Pakistan’s principal stand is also substantiated by Nehru’s promise on the floor of the Indian parliament and India’s commitment to the UN Security Council and the resolution passed by UNCIP (1950-51). In short, India’s claim is on the piece of land, and Pakistan’s demand is based on unilateral principles and law. The conflict is between occupation and the rights of people. History is witness that in...