One more farce
For the umpteenth time, India and Pakistan have come to the discussion table, to sort out their differences, armed with nothing but rhetoric. I don’t see how anything can be settled between the two nations without either leadership willing to take unpopular decisions. Do they have the guts to declare the LOC as the international border? That is the only rational and practical solution to this age-old problem.
Here is one such potentially unpopular solution:
Lets face it. Kashmir was never a part of India. Even when the Maharaja signed the instrument of accession, he did not have the popular opinion with him. Had there been a plebiscite, I am sure the results would have been as follows:
Remain free: 50%
Join Pakistan: 40%
Join India: 10%
The reason is very clear. After the division of the nation on religious grounds, the Muslim majority state would have obviously preferred either joining the Muslim nation or staying alone.
Also, Kashmir was never an advantage for India, neither economically nor militarily. In fact it has always been a liability. It does not contribute to the national wealth. In fact it is a big drag on the economy. No Indian can go and buy land in the state, due to the article 370. Thus, I am of the opinion that J&K is hardly a part of India. It is just a state with Indian protection.
The best thing to do according to me is the trifurcation of J&K into Jammu, Kashmir and Ladakh. Then we can leave Kashmir alone to decide for itself what it wants to do. Set them free. Offer them no protection. Let them choose between an autocratic Pakistan and a “relatively” democratic India.
Also India should abolish article 370 for these new states. This will allow Indians to settle in these parts of India. Also, we can settle retired army officers along the LOC, like Israel has done. These people will have the guts and means to defend themselves. That will be a surefire way to stop further infiltration.
Even though what I am suggesting might not be the best solution, it is definitely better than the current situation.