Why was Hari Singh's decision about Kashmir especially difficult in 1947?

In 1947, Maharaja Hari Singh’s decision regarding the future of Kashmir was exceptionally difficult due to the complex demographic and political landscape following the partition of India.

As the Hindu ruler of a princely state with a Muslim-majority population, Hari Singh faced conflicting pressures. While the terms of partition allowed rulers to choose between joining India or Pakistan—or remaining independent—his position was uniquely precarious. He initially sought to maintain the state's sovereignty by delaying his decision.1234

However, his hesitation was overtaken by events, including a revolution among his Muslim subjects and an invasion by Pashtun tribesmen from Pakistan. These circumstances forced him to sign an Instrument of Accession to India in October 1947 to secure necessary military assistance. This decision became the focal point of a long-standing dispute, as Pakistan viewed the region as a natural extension of its territory, while India moved to confirm the accession.4325