Afghan Rule in Kashmir (A critical Assessment)

Afghan rule in Kashmir began with Ahmad Shah Abdali's conquest of Kashmir in 1753. Afghan's exploited the Kashmir's irrespective religion and creed. Kashmiri's were subjected to vigorous taxation. Afghan rule had a devastating impact of Kashmir economy. Owing to exorbitant taxation migrations became common phenomenon. Consequent upon the peasants deserted their lands and crafts. Nevertheless there are certain positives of this rule. The present paper examines the nature of Afghan rule in Kashmir.