From Kargil to Kashmir: Pakistan’s Unwavering Commitment to Freedom

By Areesha Nisar

The story of Pakistan’s unrelenting quest for the independence of Kashmir is one of unflinching dedication, selfless giving, and an unbreakable spirit. It is a tale that has been inscribed in the pages of history by the blood of warriors and the sorrow of their loved ones, and it is proof of Pakistan’s unwavering commitment to aiding the self-determination movement in Kashmir. Pakistan has consistently supported Kashmir from the country’s founding in 1947, viewing it as a question of justice and principle as much as geography. Pakistan’s devotion to the cause of Kashmir has carried it through multiple conflicts, each of which is a chapter in the greater story of Pakistan’s commitment to the cause.

With the partition of India in 1947, the first chapter of this story started. Kashmir, which has a majority of Muslims, was supposed to become part of Pakistan as the subcontinent was split along religious lines. However, the decision by Kashmir’s ruler at the time, Maharaja Hari Singh, to accede to India, set off the first of many conflicts between Pakistan and India. Pakistan’s determination to protect the rights of Kashmiris was demonstrated during the 1947–1948 conflict, which led to the establishment of Azad Jammu and Kashmir, a territory that continues to serve as a testament to Pakistan’s dedication to the cause.

The Pakistani army showed incredible bravery and selflessness during this battle, which was fought in the difficult Himalayan terrain. Pakistan bravely battled to defend the rights of the Kashmiri people despite being a young country with few resources and a young military. The UN-mediated ceasefire in 1948 resulted in the creation of the Line of Control (LoC), a provisional border that still exists, and represents the unsettled nature of the Kashmir issue.

Pakistan’s dedication to Kashmir was put to the test once more in 1965 when hostilities flared up again. The worsening conditions in Kashmir, where the people were becoming more outspoken in their demands for independence from Indian authority, served as the impetus for the second Indo-Pak conflict. To free Kashmir by deploying forces over the Line of Control, Pakistan launched Operation Gibraltar while standing shoulder to shoulder with the Kashmiris. The subsequent struggle swiftly grew into a full-fledged war with engagements being fought on several fronts and across the border.

This conflict, which is frequently regarded as a war of bravery and heroism, demonstrated the Pakistani military’s unwavering will. With unparalleled bravery, the Pakistani Army, Navy, and Air Force men sacrificed countless lives to protect their country and the cause of the Kashmiri people. Particularly, the defense of Lahore, which repelled a significant Indian attack, came to represent Pakistan’s tenacity. The Tashkent Agreement brought an end to the conflict, but the issue of Kashmir remained unsolved, leaving a scar that both Pakistanis and Kashmiris felt was open to infection.

A violent civil war enveloped the eastern part of Pakistan, which is now Bangladesh, in 1971, posing a new threat. Even though Pakistan’s internal problems were the main focus of the conflict, the ongoing conflict in Kashmir had a significant impact. Unresolved tensions over Kashmir and the deployment of Indian forces in East Pakistan resulted in another catastrophic war between India and Pakistan. Despite East Pakistan’s defeat in this fight, Pakistan’s determination to sustain its backing for the Kashmiri cause was only bolstered.

The Kargil conflict of 1999 is arguably the most tragic episode in the saga of the incalculable sacrifices made by Pakistani personnel during these wars. The chilly heights of the Himalayas served as a harsh reminder of the ongoing tensions surrounding Kashmir during this high-altitude conflict. In the face of tremendous odds, Pakistani soldiers showed unmatched bravery and determination. The Kargil conflict was more than just a territorial dispute; it was also an indication of Pakistan’s continued support for the Kashmiri people and its determination to stand by them in their hour of need.

Pakistan has suffered significant losses in terms of both lives lost and wealth during these wars. The troops of the country, many of them young men in the prime of their lives, have given their lives in battle, demonstrating the extent of Pakistan’s devotion to Kashmir. These sacrifices are honored annually on Defense Day, a day on which the nation pays tribute to its fallen heroes. They are not merely a part of Pakistan’s history; they are an integral component of the country’s identity.

September 6th is Defense Day, a day not only for remembering but also for reiterating Pakistan’s commitment to keep up its assistance for Kashmir. On this day, the country remembers the troops who gave their lives for the cause of Kashmir and reaffirmed their support for it. To ensure that the memory of those who have died is never forgotten, events are held across the nation on this day to rejoice in tales of bravery and sacrifice.

The fight for the independence of Kashmir is far from done, and Pakistan is still fully committed to seeing this through to the end. Tensions have flared up again in recent years as the situation in Kashmir gets worse. The removal of Jammu and Kashmir’s special status in 2019 due to India’s revocation of Article 370 has strengthened Pakistan’s resolve to stand with the people of Kashmir. Pakistan has stepped up diplomatic efforts to draw attention to the suffering of Kashmiris on a worldwide scale in response to these developments and has called for international engagement to end the conflict.

The Kashmiri people’s fundamental right to control their destiny is at the center of Pakistan’s steadfast commitment to the region, not only its territorial claims. Human rights, justice, and the realization of commitments made at the division are the main concerns. The foundation of Pakistan’s commitment to supporting Kashmir will always be its people’s fortitude and the sacrifices made by its warriors. Pakistan is an inspiration to everyone who supports the right to self-determination because of its unwavering commitment to freedom, from Kargil to Kashmir. Pakistan remains steadfast in its desire to secure Kashmir’s freedom, even though the road ahead is long and difficult.

The views expressed in this article belong to the author only, and do not necessarily reflect the views of The Global Politico.