Historical Perspective of Violence in Kashmir Valley: Its Impact on Society and Economy

Abstract

Conflict of any kind and any nature has always a long impact on societies and economies of world. The three geographical units of the state (Jammu, Kashmir and Ladakh) with their distinct cultural patterns and social life were separate and distinct areas under different rulers from ancient times till 1947. Very few rulers cared for the people of Kashmir who lived in subjugation and poverty. India and Pakistan were partitioned in 1947, since then Kashmiri people have been at the root of constant tension between the world’s most populous democracy, India, and its neighbor Pakistan. Violence and turmoil has resulted in all misdeeds like injustice, killings, corruption, economic backwardness, unemployment and disparity etc. Most activities like trade, transport connection and mobility of people are hampered for the last more than two decades. The states involved in the conflict and its geo-political position has always placed Kashmir in the forefront of discussion at regional, national and international levels. This study is an attempt to look at different aspects of violence, its impact on human rights and socio-economy of Kashmir Valley.

Keywords: Violence, Economy, Civil Society, Human Rights, Kashmir Valley