SHAFAQNA (Shia International News Association) -- Skirmishes between the Pakistani and Indian armies in Kashmir left two Pakistani soldiers and two Indian soldiers dead last week. Each side accuses the other of violating a ceasefire that has been in place since 2003. The following coverage by Al Jazeera English provides background on the recent flare-up.
Although cross-border firing on the Line of Control in Kashmir is not unusual, many fear the escalation in tensions between India and Pakistan because of their nuclear capabilities. The two sides have fought three major wars, two of them over Kashmir. Following the recent clashes, both sides have engaged in diplomatic talks hoping to stabilise the situation.
Despite an interest in reconciliation, prominent Indian leaders have expressed adamant disapproval of the Pakistani army's reported beheading of an Indian soldier. Pakistan has denied the accusation. Below, General Bikram Singh, Chief of Army Staff of the Indian Army, spoke on the subject.
The struggle for democracy in Kashmir began long before the partition of India and Pakistan in 1947. Kashmiris have often taken to the streets to call for their right to self-determination. Below are videos of protests in 2010 and 2012.
