Kashmir conflict: AnewZ documentary examines 75 years of struggle and its global implications VIDEO

AnewZ TV has recently produced a documentary titled "Frontline: Kashmir – The Silent Struggle," offering a comprehensive and nuanced exploration of the Kashmir conflict, focusing on its complex political, humanitarian, and military dimensions. It not only delves into the history and territorial disputes but also provides a human-centred perspective on the struggles of the people caught in the crossfire. 

The documentary traces the Kashmir dispute to the 1947 partition of India and Pakistan, the 1947 Instrument of Accession, and the impact of UN resolutions, particularly the call for a plebiscite that remains unimplemented. It also discusses the 2019 revocation of Article 370, which altered Jammu and Kashmir’s special status and raised global concerns.

The humanitarian toll of the conflict is a key focus, shedding light on the plight of the Kashmiri people, especially in Azad Kashmir. Refugees and displaced families endure immense hardship amid ongoing violence, with the region being one of the most heavily militarized zones in the world, housing 900,000 troops in a population of just 10-11 million.

Kashmir’s strategic importance, particularly its water resources, adds a geopolitical layer to the conflict. Pakistan’s concern over India’s control of the Indus River Basin, which is essential for Pakistan’s agricultural economy, is a driving force in the dispute. The documentary also examines the region’s economy, emphasizing the need for agricultural improvements to uplift the living standards of its people.

The fragile security situation along the Line of Control (LoC) is another critical aspect, where the risk of accidental conflict looms large. Both India and Pakistan, as nuclear-armed nations, heighten the possibility of escalation into a full-blown nuclear war. This adds to the global stakes surrounding the conflict.

The film captures international reactions, including the calls for peaceful resolution from bodies like the United Nations and the Organization of Islamic Cooperation. It also touches on Pakistan’s advocacy for multilateral negotiations under UN supervision and highlights Kashmir Solidarity Day, a day of solidarity with the Kashmiri people.

Through personal interviews, the documentary humanizes the conflict by portraying the resilience and suffering of the Kashmiri population. The stark contrast between Kashmir’s breathtaking landscapes and the grim reality of ongoing violence lends emotional depth, bringing a powerful perspective to the ongoing struggle.

By Tamilla Hasanova