ENDURING RIVALRIES: IDENTITY POLITICS AND THE PURSUIT OF PEACE IN THE INDO-PAK REGION

Abstract

This paper examines the longstanding rivalry between Pakistan and India, rooted in their historical partition and shaped by competing religious and national identities, which continue to influence their geopolitical dynamics. The core question addressed is: How do identity politics, religion and regime factors shape the persistent conflict between Pakistan and India, and what are the prospects for peace? Drawing on Bennett's framework of enduring rivalries, the paper explores how both countries’ national identities—Muslim nationalism in Pakistan and Hindu nationalism in India—have been reinforced by political regimes, religious radicalization, and militarization, particularly concerning the Kashmir conflict. The research uses a qualitative approach, employing historical analysis and comparative political theory to assess the influence of key events, such as the rise of Hindutva in India and Islamization in Pakistan, on bilateral relations. The findings suggest that while identity politics, regime types, and public perception are central to the persistence of conflict, there are also opportunities for cooperation, notably in public support for dialogue and trade. However, religious polarization and aggressive military posturing remain major obstacles to peace. The paper concludes with a call for pragmatic diplomatic engagement, de-escalation of military tensions, and increased people-to-people exchanges as a way forward, alongside addressing core issues like Kashmir through multilateral platforms, with an emphasis on human rights and self-determination.