The Making of Modern Kashmir : Sheikh Abdullah and the Politics of the State

This book traces the roots of modern-day Kashmir and the role of Sheikh Abdullah in its making. As the most influential political figurehead in twentieth-century Kashmir, he played a crucial role in its transformation from a kingdom to a state in independent India. He was enigmatic and complex, to say the least. Following his meteoric rise, he dominated the political scene for more than 50 years, with enduring impact. The volume presents a keen analysis of pre-Independence events which led to the emergence of a controversial and confused identity of the region. It also looks at other major themes in the political life of Kashmir, including the formation of the Muslim Conference, the plebiscite movement and the Kashmir Accord. A major intervention in the political life of South Asia, this book presents an inside-view of the history of modern Kashmir through the life and times of Sheikh Abdullah. It will be of great interest to scholars and researchers of politics, history, and modern South Asia. Dedication Contents Acknowledgments Introduction 1 Impact of a heartless treaty that sold an entire population 2 Sheikh Mohammad Abdullah: early life and ideological background 3 Harbinger of national consciousness: from Reading Room Party to Muslim Conference 4 Role as Muslim Conference president 5 Nationalization of a secular movement 6 Role as National Conference president: confronting with alternative voices 7 Accession: swimming against the tide? 8 In power (1947–1953): shaky foundations of a democratic edifice 9 Out of power: trapped in his own cage 10 Accord: a lion made toothless 11 Regaining power: a shadow of his own Conclusion Bibliography Index This book explores at Kashmir politics from the early twentieth century to the present day, and the life of Sheikh Abdullah, who played a crucial role in its transformation from a kingdom to a state in independent India.