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........

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