Is it time to let Kashmir go?

(picture source: http://goatmilk.files.wordpress.com/)

I've mulled over this question for at least four years. Every time I meet a group of Pakistanis, we've exchanged frank, but calm views on the topic. Often, we've found ourselves agreeing.

India has given Kashmir many things - greater political autonomy than any other state in the country, billions of dollars in aid, (passable) infrastructure, food aid, etc. But India has not given the Kashmiris the right to choose their allegiance or independence. Ostensibly, this is because a UN resolution requires the demilitarization of (Azad and Indian) Kashmir before such a plebiscite is held. (Clearly, this hasn't happened).

In my opinion, letting go of Kashmir has nothing to do with Pakistan. It has nothing to do with throwing away the sacrifices of thousands of soldiers and civilians. It won't open a Pandora's box of secessionist claims from other regions in India. Letting Kashmiris decide their future is about showing that India is big enough to give 4 million people the right to choose their destiny.

Vir Sanghvi, a well-respected Indian journalist, makes the argument far more eloquently than I ever could. It cuts down to one basic concept. People - especially in a democracy - should have the freedom to decide their own future.

"I reckon we should hold a referendum in the Valley. Let the Kashmiris determine their own destiny. If they want to stay in India, they are welcome. But if they dont, then we have no moral right to force them to remain. If they vote for integration with Pakistan, all this will mean is that Azad Kashmir will gain a little more territory. If they opt for independence, they will last for about 15 minutes without the billions that India has showered on them. But it will be their decision.

Whatever happens, how can India lose? If you believe in democracy, then giving Kashmiris the right to self-determination is the correct thing to do. And even if you dont, surely we will be better off being rid of this constant, painful strain on our resources, our lives, and our honour as a nation?" (HT)