Who does Kashmir belong to?

If anyone should be allowed to integrate Kashmir, it should be Pakistan. Not only is Kashmir mainly a Muslim state, but there is no reason for India to even have Kashmir. Kashmir first unwillingly merged with India merged with India in exchange for military support and the promise of a referendum on independence. However this was NEVER held by India. The only reason India says they need Kashmir is to quell terrorism. However, most of the terrorism only occurs because the people in general want India to leave. It's ridiculous that they continue to fight over it.

Although in reality I feel like Kashmir should gain its own independence sans the aid from both Pakistan and India, I feel the need to take India' side simply because your argument is stupid (:)). Foremost, I obviously agree-Kashmir is mainly a Muslim state. However, what is that supposed to mean? There are more Muslims in India than there are in Pakistan, hence with the same logic you are using, Kashmir should rightfully go to India. Next, again I agree in that India did not grant Kashmir military support. However this is perhaps advantageous to Kashmir considering the strength of India's combating skills- you're better off without it. The reason so many innocent Kashmiris have died in the first place is because of the unnecessary use of militants, if anything. India is simply demanding Kashmir because of the Indian Independence Act. What's Pakistan's excuse? In reality it's just a matter of pride- I doubt either parties truly care about the issue at hand, they just want the extra power and the ability to say they "won."

They should have a referendum on it, but split it up for that purpose. Kashmir Valley might decide differently than Ladakh or Jammu because they have a different ethnic and religious composition. SAnd the will of the people in each part of the country should be respected. There should also be given a guarantee of minority rights regardles of the outcome and the border should be open in any case.

what is really at stake here? if we look at a topographic map we see a major watershed that is important to both India and Pakistan. Do not be fooled, this is not a conflict over pride or religion, but water and the ability to grow enough food. One of the primary agricultural areas in Pakistan receives water that originates in Kashmir, as does northern parts of India

While the history of the region is turbulent, and by legal agreement there in fact should have been a legal vote to determine which country Kashmir will 'belong' too, recent studies have indicated that the Kashmir population is not exactly satisfied with either party and the way they have been dealt with.

Also it would be foolish to ignore the Chinese who also have a claim to parts of the territory.
For now perhaps the status quo is the best option for India, Pakistan and indeed Kashmir.

I'm still debating on the issue myself, however, I have heard compelling arguments on both sides.

One pro-India side gave the economic benefits Kashmir would receive. If integrated with India, it would have the same booming economy, rising currency, and increased foreign interest that the rest of the nation does.

Just a thought, not necessarily mine.


-Abhijeet