This paper examines the framing of Kashmir conflict in the editorials of three
PakistaniEnglish newspapers, The Nation, The Nation, and Dawn during dictatorial
(Musharraf regime, 2005-2007) and the democratic regime (Zardari regime (2008-
2010). It argues that in case of conflict press conforms to the government policies,
change in governments also has an effect on how the press changes its coverage
on the conflict according to the policies of the government. The study utilizes a
content analysis method to examine the use of framing techniques in the
newspapers. Findings supported that the Pakistani press indexed the ruling
elite’s stance in both regimes. It was found that during the dictatorial regime,
as Kashmir conflict was high on agenda, Pakistani English press gave more
coverage to Kashmir conflict as compared to the democratic regime. The results
also showed that during the dictatorial regime, the dialogue frame to resolve
the Kashmir conflict between India and Pakistan was high, which was also in
line with the policy of Musharraf’s autocratic regime. Surprisingly, the press
coverage in both regimes regarding the self-determination right for Kashmiris
in the light of UNO resolutions, Pakistan’s longstanding stance, was minimal.
The implications of the results are discussed.