1947 Kashmir Accession

The 1947 Kashmir Accession refers to the process by which the princely state of Jammu and Kashmir joined India. When British India gained independence, princely states could choose their own allegiance. Maharaja Hari Singh, the ruler of Kashmir, initially tried to stay independent, but faced invasions from tribal militias from Pakistan. To seek help, he signed an instrument of accession to India, which allowed Indian troops to enter and defend the region. This accession was accepted by India, but Pakistan disputed it, leading to ongoing conflict and territorial disagreements that remain unresolved.