Question

How was the issue of merger of the princely states resolved?

Kashmir

Answer 1

1. Hari Singh, the ruling king of the State of Kashmir, had decided neither to join India, nor Pakistan after India’s independence.
2. However, Pakistan had plans to annex Kashmir to its territory.
3. Therefore, Pakistan began to pressurise King Hari Singh.
4. On 22nd October 1947, armed bands of intruders attacked Kashmir from the Pakistan border.
5. King Hari Singh, who wanted to maintain independent status, asked India for help.
6. On 27th October 1947, he consented to merge Kashmir in India and officially submitted the Agreement (Instrument of Accession) to the Government of India.