UNDERSTANDING the relationship between Kashmir and Pakistan solely through contemporary politics, social media narratives, diplomacy, emotion or geography offers only a partial picture. The roots of this relationship extend far deeper—into history, identity, collective memory, political consciousness and long-standing social connections. Kashmir has historically maintained a distinct cultural and social identity within South Asia. Through its traditions, languages, customs and social structure, it developed a character that made it more than a geographical territory; it emerged as a historical and political entity with its own sense of continuity and belonging. As modern political consciousness evolved in the subcontinent and questions of Muslim identity gained prominence, two broad political visions emerged among Indian Muslims: one supported a united India, while the other argued that Muslims represented a distinct political and civilizational community entitled to political self-determination. Among the most influential voices behind this vision was Allama Muhammad Iqbal, himself of Kashmiri origin. Under the leadership of Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah, this movement ultimately led to the creation of Pakistan and also influenced political thinking within Jammu and Kashmir.
For many among Kashmir’s Muslim majority, cultural affinity, religious demography, economic links, geographic proximity and political orientation created a natural inclination toward association with Pakistan. This sentiment extended beyond emotional expression into political positions and organized public opinion. Because Jammu and Kashmir was a princely state rather than a directly governed province of British India, its future after partition became constitutionally and politically complex, yet within that environment sections of Kashmiri leadership and public representation expressed support for alignment with Pakistan. In this context, the Resolution of Accession to Pakistan adopted on 19 July 1947 remains an important historical reference for many Kashmiris who viewed it as an expression of political aspirations regarding their future. At the same time, the Maharaja sought to preserve his authority and the state’s autonomous position.
Yet Kashmir’s relationship with Pakistan cannot be understood through documents and resolutions alone. The people of this region made sacrifices and participated in political struggles that shaped the present realities of Azad Jammu and Kashmir, while families displaced from different parts of the former state—particularly from Jammu—remain part of the collective memory. Their aspirations for dignity, security, development and stability continue to define public expectations, as divided families across the Line of Control experience separation in moments of joy, grief and daily life, keeping questions of political identity and future alive across generations.
At the same time, Pakistan’s people, institutions and successive governments have consistently regarded Kashmir as part of the national political consciousness. Political support, diplomatic engagement, humanitarian assistance, economic cooperation, educational opportunities and institutional arrangements have formed part of that association over different periods. The contribution of Kashmiris within Pakistan’s broader national life is also significant. Across politics, education, public service, business, media and other fields, Kashmiri communities have participated actively in national development. At the same time, an important principle deserves recognition: affection does not eliminate questions and attachment does not eliminate grievances. If Kashmiris seek better governance, economic opportunity, broader participation or more effective representation, such aspirations should not automatically be viewed as weakening their relationship with Pakistan. In many cases, they reflect expectations arising from connection rather than separation. Kashmir, therefore, should not be viewed only through the language of dispute, but as a living society seeking to preserve its identity while strengthening its historical and emotional connections with Pakistan.
Recent years have also highlighted certain challenges. Governance weaknesses, delayed response to public concerns, economic pressures and institutional shortcomings cannot be ignored. Internal vulnerabilities sometimes create space for competing narratives and external influence. However, temporary difficulties alone cannot define a relationship shaped over generations.
Given the region’s strategic sensitivity, it remains necessary to remain attentive to possible external influence campaigns and competing geopolitical interests. At the same time, not every disagreement, constitutional demand or public criticism should automatically be treated as foreign interference. Democratic societies must retain space for lawful political expression while remaining vigilant against efforts to deepen division or instability. Current debates, including constitutional and political questions surrounding refugee representation, should be addressed through legal frameworks, democratic dialogue and institutional processes.
Kashmir’s history repeatedly demonstrates that its people have sacrificed not for division and disorder, but for dignity, identity, stability and a better collective future. The relationship between Kashmir and Pakistan may begin with geography, but it endures through trust, respect, historical experience and shared aspirations. Relationships of this kind are sustained not by noise, but by understanding—and strengthened through dialogue, reconciliation and mutual respect.
—The writer is a Supreme Court lawyer and former member & Chairman Standing Committee of Azad Jammu and Kashmir Council. Islamabad
