The people of Jammu and Kashmir have a long history of resistance against foreign domination, political subjugation and perceived denial of their political rights. Throughout different historical periods, they have demonstrated resilience and commitment to safeguarding their identity, dignity and aspirations. Central to this struggle has been the demand for self-determination, a principle that continues to shape political discourse on Kashmir at regional and international levels. The organized resistance of Kashmiris against Dogra Rule gained momentum during the early 20th Century. Although dissatisfaction with political and socio-economic conditions had existed for decades, public resistance largely remained limited until 1931. The events of 13 July 1931 marked a significant turning point in Kashmir’s political history. The day is commemorated by many Kashmiris as Yaum-e-Shuhada-e-Kashmir (Martyrs’ Day) and is regarded as a symbol of sacrifice and collective resistance. According to historical accounts, thousands of people gathered outside Srinagar Central Jail during the trial of Abdul Qadeer Khan, who had criticized policies of the Dogra Administration. During the gathering, as the time for prayer approached, a young Kashmiri reportedly began the Azan. Dogra forces opened fire and successive individuals who attempted to complete the call to prayer were also shot. The incident resulted in the deaths of twenty-two Kashmiris and became a defining moment in the political awakening of the Kashmiri population. The tragedy generated widespread public mobilization and strengthened demands for political, religious, economic and social rights.
In the aftermath of these events, the All Jammu and Kashmir Muslim Conference emerged as a major political platform advocating the rights of the people of the state. Its objectives reflected growing concerns regarding political exclusion, economic deprivation and restrictions on civil and religious freedoms. The movement also drew attention to the historical consequences of the 1846 Treaty of Amritsar, through which the Dogra rulers acquired control of Jammu and Kashmir.
The history of Kashmir prior to 1947 reflects successive periods of external rule. The region came under Mughal control in 1586, followed by Afghan rule, Sikh administration and later Dogra governance from 1846 to 1947. Various scholars and political activists have argued that these periods were characterized by varying degrees of political and economic marginalization of the local population. Historical writings have documented grievances relating to taxation, forced labour practices and limited political participation, particularly during the Dogra era. Political consciousness among Kashmiris continued to grow during the early 20th Century through initiatives such as the Reading Room Party, established in 1919. This movement sought to raise awareness about political rights and social reforms and played an important role in nurturing organized political activism. Events such as restrictions on religious practices, including controversies surrounding the Eid Khutba in 1931, further intensified public dissatisfaction and strengthened demands for change. The partition of British India in 1947 transformed Kashmir from a regional political issue into an international dispute. Competing claims over the territory resulted in conflict and the division of the former princely state. Since then, the Kashmir issue has remained one of the most enduring and sensitive disputes in South Asia. Different parties continue to hold sharply contrasting interpretations regarding the legal, political and historical dimensions of the conflict.
For many Kashmiris, the demand for self-determination remains central to their political aspirations. The issue has also been discussed within the framework of United Nations resolutions and international diplomatic initiatives. Successive decades have witnessed periods of political unrest, armed conflict, mass protests and extensive security measures, particularly in India-occupied Jammu and Kashmir. Human rights concerns have increasingly become a significant dimension of the Kashmir dispute. International human rights organizations, policy institutes, journalists and civil society groups have raised concerns regarding restrictions on civil liberties, arbitrary detentions, freedom of expression and the humanitarian consequences of prolonged conflict. Developments following the constitutional changes introduced by India on 5 August 2019 have generated renewed debate regarding governance, political representation, demographic change and the future status of the region.
Despite decades of conflict and uncertainty, many Kashmiris continue to advocate for their political rights through various forms of civic and political engagement. The sacrifices made over generations have become an important part of Kashmir’s collective memory and identity. Supporters of the Kashmiri cause argue that lasting peace and stability in South Asia require a just and sustainable resolution of the dispute that takes into account the aspirations of the people of Jammu and Kashmir.
As the international community continues to address global challenges related to peace, security and human rights, the Kashmir issue remains an important subject of regional and international concern. Greater diplomatic engagement, constructive dialogue, respect for human rights and meaningful efforts toward conflict resolution are essential for creating conditions that can contribute to peace, stability and prosperity for the people of Jammu and Kashmir and the wider South Asian region.
— The writer is Professor of Politics and IR at International Islamic University, Islamabad.
