Strategizing Kashmiri Freedom Struggle Through Nonviolent Means

Abstract

Since 1947, Kashmiris are demanding freedom from Indian occupation. They have adopted numerous approaches to gain independence from Indian subjugation, including nonviolent resistance, election boycotts and international arbitration. Various new trends in the Kashmiri freedom struggle have been observed since 2008 including a signature campaign ‘Safr-e-Azadi’ (journey for freedom) in 2008, ‘Muzaffarabad Chalo’ (Got to Muzaffarabad) march of 2008 and sit-ins of 2010 which have significantly changed the nature of Kashmir struggle. This paper explores emerging trends of strategic nonviolent Kashmiri struggle and practical future options to strategize the former through the prism of Gene Sharp's Theory of Nonviolence. This study assumes that strategic nonviolent movement in IOJ&K has highlighted the Kashmir cause across the world. It has challenged the Indian occupation through staging mass protests and employing new forms of strategic methods, which will likely put India under pressure in the future. If organized, well-coordinated and strategically planned, this struggle can be successful. In the wake of the Indian government's abrogation of Articles 370 and 35A and illegal annexation of IOJ&K on August 5, 2019, the need for devising a well-calibrated, inclusive and comprehensive strategy and employing all viable options for peaceful resolution of the Kashmir dispute further increases.