to Pakistan’s 2010 statement to the UN, it’s the oldest unresolved international

conflict still on the UN’s agenda. The conflict is often attributed directly to the region’s

backlash against British colonialism. But is that the whole story? What is the Kashmir

conflict really about?

Well first of all, when we say Kashmir, we mean the region that is currently occupied

by both Pakistan and India. Historically, the region has been home to a number of Buddhists,

Hindus, Muslims, Sikhs and other cultures, which have been in conflict for hundreds of

years.

In 1846, Kashmir was claimed by the former British Empire as a princely state in their

Indian Empire. The population was predominantly Muslim, but the ruler, set up by the British,

was Hindu.

This difference in religions caused conflict in Kashmir, especially after World War 2.

In 1947, Britain gave its Indian colonies independence, and states around Kashmir joined

either Pakistan or India. Because of the Muslim majority in Kashmir, most wanted to join the

predominantly Muslim Pakistan. However, Kashmir’s Hindu ruler wished the state to remain neutral.

Not long after independence, Pakistan invaded Kashmir. This caused Hari Singh (Harry Sing),

Kashmir’s ruler, to ask India for military help. He signed the “Instrument of Accession”,

which made Kashmir officially a part of India, with some autonomous privileges. From there,

India sent in military forces to combat Pakistani fighters, culminating in the first Indo-Pakistani

War of 1947, also known as the first Kashmir war.

In 1965 and 1971, two more Indo-Pakistani wars broke out with thousands killed. Although

territory was originally a key reason for fighting, human rights abuses on both sides

became a larger reason for hostilities between both nations. You can hear more about “Why

India and Pakistan Hate Each Other” in Tara’s video. After several ceasefire agreements,

the political boundaries of Pakistan and India are still considered “disputed”, but both

nations control about one half of Kashmir.

The whole Indian subcontinent is teeming with unique peoples and culture. Check out this

amazing story of a small village south of New Delhi that has such a long history of

defending itself, it’s become legendary. That’s our brand new show Seeker, by the

way! Please check it out and subscribe, Evan & I really appreciate the support! There’s

a link in the description if you’re on your phone. Thanks for watching TestTube!