The Eternal Kashmir Conflict: Will It Ever Find Peace?

The Kashmir issue has been a contentious and unresolved one between India and Pakistan since the partition of the subcontinent in 1947. The situation has been further complicated by various political and military actions taken by both nations over the years, particularly the abrogation of Article 370 by the BJP government in 2019. This article examines whether the Kashmir conflict will ever come to an end and explores the factors that have perpetuated this ongoing issue.

Introduction to the Kashmir Conflict

The Kashmir issue was ostensibly resolved in 2019 when the BJP government in India abolished Article 370, integrating the state fully into the Indian union. However, as the article discusses, this move did not bring the valley any closer to peace. Instead, the Kashmir conflict has evolved into a political arena with both India and Pakistan maintaining a contentious relationship.

Three Conflicts that Endure Indefinitely

Several conflicts around the world are likely to persist as long as the Earth and the Solar System exist. Among these are the Israel-Palestine conflict, the North Korea-South Korea conflict, and the Kashmir conflict between India and Pakistan. The persistent nature of these conflicts stems from various complex factors, such as political ideologies, territorial claims, and social tensions.

Theoretically Solvable but Practically Unresolved

If both India and Pakistan truly desired a peaceful resolution, the Kashmir issue could have been amicably solved long ago. However, the valley still remains in pieces, ravaged by various conflicts and wars. Pakistan, in particular, has had ample opportunity to recognize the futility of persisting in the conflict, given the devastating consequences of past wars, including Kargil (1999), Shimla (1965), and Bangladesh War (1971).

Political Milestone or Continuous Drudgery?

The Kashmir conflict has ceased to be a meaningful issue and has become a political milestone for both nations. Neither India nor Pakistan is genuinely interested in finding a lasting solution to the conflict. The reasons are simple: both countries have substantial militaries and significant defense expenditures. Young soldiers are trained and equipped with the latest technology, but they spend the majority of their careers in simulated exercises and training drills.

Wasteful Military Spending and Proxy Wars

The best way to keep soldiers busy is to engage in cross-border skirmishes and small proxy wars. Both countries frequently violate ceasefires, sometimes facing off in actual combat. Recent cease-fire violations are common, as the article highlights daily news reports of such breaches. These violations occur because of the very reasons mentioned above: keeping troops engaged in a continuous state of readiness for confrontation.

Escalation and Human Cost

There is a dire human cost to these conflicts. Innocent civilians and soldiers on both sides are made pawns in this political game. A famous Japanese story about introducing a small shark into a fish tank to keep the fish healthy and active aptly illustrates this point. In a hypothetical all-out war, as demonstrated by India’s actions during the 1971 Bangladesh War, the consequences can be catastrophic for all involved.

The Kashmir conflict remains an eternal cycle of tension and conflict between India and Pakistan. Unless both nations are willing to address the underlying issues and find a sustainable political solution, the conflict will continue to embody a political milestone for both countries.