Jammu and Kashmir comprises three distinct social and political regions: Jammu, Kashmir, and Ladakh. The Jammu region is a mix of foothills and plains, predominantly inhabited by Hindus, along with Muslims and Sikhs. The Kashmir region mainly comprises the Kashmir valley and is inhabited mostly by Kashmiri Muslims. The Ladakh region is mountainous with a very small population, almost equally divided between Buddhists and Muslims.

These internal divisions contribute to multiple regional aspirations. The people of the state, particularly in the valley, share a sentiment known as Kashmiriyat, viewing themselves as Kashmiris above all. Historically, the popular movement led by Sheikh Abdullah wanted to remove the Maharaja but opposed joining Pakistan, reflecting a secular regional aspiration.

Currently, a section, mostly Kashmiris, believes the autonomy conferred by Article 370 is insufficient. This has led to specific demands such as a plebiscite, as the promise to refer accession to the people was not fulfilled. Furthermore, there is a demand for 'Greater State Autonomy' because the special federal status was felt to have been eroded. Finally, there is an aspiration that democracy be institutionalized in the State similar to the rest of India.