Days after the deadly Pahalgam attack—which claimed 26 lives in Indian-controlled Kashmir—India and Pakistan exchanged fire across the Line of Control (LoC) this week. India confirmed air strikes on nine targets in Pakistan-controlled Kashmir, while Pakistan reported civilian casualties, including a child. The escalation has reignited fears of a broader conflict between the nuclear-armed neighbors.
Why Kashmir Remains a Powder Keg
At the heart of the strife is Kashmir, a breathtaking valley claimed by both nations since the end of British colonial rule in 1947. The region has sparked two wars and decades of sporadic violence. Despite the 1972 Simla Agreement, which aimed to resolve disputes peacefully, tensions flare regularly, with both sides accusing each other of ceasefire violations.
A Legacy of Colonial Division
Kashmir’s turmoil began with the 1947 partition of the subcontinent. The rushed British exit left borders contested, and Kashmir’s unresolved status became a tinderbox. Today, the LoC divides the region, but civilian lives remain caught in the crossfire. Residents face daily risks, from shelling to militant attacks, as peace talks stall.
What’s Next for Kashmir?
While recent years saw relative calm, incidents like Pahalgam show how quickly tensions boil over. Global leaders urge dialogue, but with elections in India and political shifts in Pakistan, the path to stability remains uncertain. For Kashmiris, the dream of peace feels farther than ever. 🌍💔
