Decades of Bloodshed: How Kashmir Became a Battleground Between Two Nuclear Rivals
Published on May 3, 2025 by Renuka Bangale
India-Pakistan Wars: A Timeline of Conflict
Since gaining independence from British rule in 1947, India and Pakistan have remained bitter rivals, with tensions rooted deeply in the territorial dispute over Kashmir. The region, home to a Muslim-majority population, was controversially acceded to India during Partition, sparking the first Indo-Pak war. Over the decades, the two nations have fought four full-scale wars and endured numerous cross-border skirmishes and terror attacks. Each conflict has intensified political and military hostility, drawing global attention. Despite ceasefire agreements and peace talks, Kashmir remains a flashpoint, with both countries maintaining heavy military presence. Their strained relationship continues to pose a threat to regional stability in South Asia.
1947–48 – First Indo-Pak War
The conflict began after Pakistan-backed tribal militias invaded Kashmir. Maharaja Hari Singh of Kashmir acceded to India in exchange for military assistance. This led to a full-scale war between India and Pakistan. A UN-mediated ceasefire came into effect in January 1949. The ceasefire established the Line of Control (LoC), dividing Kashmir. Kashmir’s status has remained unresolved ever since.
1965 – Second Indo-Pak War
Pakistan launched Operation Gibraltar to infiltrate and incite rebellion in Kashmir. India responded by attacking across the international border, reaching Lahore. The war witnessed intense tank battles and air combat. Both sides suffered heavy casualties and economic losses. A UN-brokered ceasefire was declared in September 1965. The Tashkent Agreement was later signed to restore peace.
1971 – Bangladesh Liberation War
Triggered by Pakistan’s crackdown on East Pakistan’s independence movement. India supported the Mukti Bahini and launched a military intervention. In just 13 days, India achieved a decisive victory. Over 90,000 Pakistani soldiers surrendered in Dhaka. East Pakistan became the new nation of Bangladesh on December 16. Pakistan recognized Bangladesh in 1974 under international pressure.
1999 – Kargil Conflict
Pakistani soldiers and militants infiltrated Indian territory in Kargil, disguised as Kashmiri insurgents. India launched Operation Vijay to push them back. The war was fought at high altitudes with heavy artillery and air support. After global diplomatic pressure, Pakistan withdrew its forces. India regained control of the occupied peaks. The conflict highlighted the fragility of nuclear peace.
1989–Present – Kashmir Insurgency & Proxy War
An armed rebellion erupted in Kashmir against Indian governance. India accused Pakistan of arming, training, and funding militants. The insurgency gradually took on a more Islamist character. Frequent clashes, curfews, and civilian deaths have marred the region. Pakistan claims to offer only “moral and diplomatic” support. India views it as a state-sponsored proxy war.
2001 & 2008 – Terror Attacks
In 2001, militants attacked the Indian Parliament, killing 14. India blamed Pakistan-based group Jaish-e-Mohammed, escalating military tensions. In 2008, Lashkar-e-Taiba carried out a four-day siege in Mumbai. 166 people were killed across major landmarks, including two hotels. The attacks severely damaged Indo-Pak relations. Pakistan denied involvement but faced global criticism.
2019 – Balakot Airstrikes & Pilot Capture
India conducted airstrikes in Balakot, targeting a Jaish-e-Mohammed camp. Pakistan retaliated by shooting down an Indian MiG-21 and capturing the pilot. Tensions soared between the two nuclear-armed nations. International diplomacy helped de-escalate the situation. Pakistan released the pilot as a “peace gesture.” It marked a rare air confrontation between the two nations.
2025 – Pahalgam Massacre
On April 22, gunmen attacked Indian tourists in Baisaran meadow near Pahalgam.26 people were killed, making it one of the deadliest attacks in recent years. India blamed the attack on Pakistan-based militants. The Kashmir Resistance Front, linked to Lashkar-e-Taiba, claimed responsibility. The massacre reignited tensions and drew widespread condemnation. India described it as a cross-border terror act.
Pakistan’s Alleged Terror Funding and Its Role in Major Attacks on India
India has repeatedly accused Pakistan of supporting cross-border terrorism by funding and aiding groups like Lashkar-e-Taiba, Jaish-e-Mohammed, and Hizbul Mujahideen through its spy agency, the ISI. These funds are said to help with recruitment, training, weapons, and shelter for militants. The money often flows through hawala channels, NGOs, fake companies, and charitable fronts. Major attacks like the 2001 Parliament assault, the 2008 Mumbai attacks, and the 2019 Pulwama bombing have all been linked to such funding networks. Indian and international agencies have traced these incidents back to Pakistani-based handlers and organizations.