Past, Present and Future of Kashmir

The book Past, Present and Future of Kashmir deals in detail with the problem of the State of Jammu and Kashmir. Beginning with the political history of the state in ancient times it presents a Chronology of Kashmiri rulers – Hindus, Muslims and the British respectively. When India was to become independent it was ruled by a Hindu King who failed in either way to decide the fate of the territory like other princely states of India. As a result of the Mini War between India and Pakistan a portion of it was held by the latter and is known as Azad Kashmir. In post-independence phase it continues to be a contentious issue between the two neighbours and caused four devastating wars over it. Pakistan has complaints over its accession to the Union of India because at the time, public at large, were not consulted. The very composition of Pakistani Society and Political System as well witnessed a sea change towards the direction opposite to India. In recent year the two have realised the futility of three party mediation, including the world body, and began to look forward for better bilateral understanding to get rid of this vexed problem.