How the First Indo-Pak Warshaped the destiny of J & K?
By iastoppers.com
In 1947, the first war between India and Pakistan erupted when Pakistan attempted to annex Jammu and Kashmir (J&K) through Operation Gulmarg.
Pakistan meticulously planned to invade Kashmir under the strategy to disrupt the Indian Army through hit-and-run attacks along the long frontier.
About 20 tribal militias, each comprising 1000 Pashtun tribesmen were recruited to capture Srinagar on October 22, 1947, but stalled after reaching Baramulla.
Maharaja Hari Singh of Kashmir faced a complex situation as he had signed a Standstill Agreement with both nations, but appealed to India for help.
The Instrument of Accession was signed with India on October 26, so Indian troops were sent to protect Srinagar leading to an unsaid declaration of war.
Significant landmarks of the war included Battle of Badgam, recapture of Jhangar, Battle of Naushara, advance to Tithawal, relief in Punch, and the fight of Chhamb to Tithwal.
On January 5, 1949 the war ended, following a UN Commission-mediated ceasefire, where India gained control of two-thirds of Jammu and Kashmir, while Pakistan secured one-third.
In a symbolic move, 24 seats in the J & K Assembly were reserved for Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir (PoK), reflecting the ongoing controversy over the region.
The first Indo-Pak war set the stage for a contentious relationship between India and Pakistan, with lasting geopolitical repercussions.