Simla Agreement

Current Context: Pakistan’s suspension of the 1972 Simla Agreement marks a significant shift in India-Pakistan relations, following India’s actions after the Pahalgam terrorist attack. The agreement, signed post-1971 Indo-Pakistani War, aimed to normalize ties.

Key Highlights

• Signatories: Indian PM Indira Gandhi and Pakistani President Zulfikar Ali Bhutto
• Objective: Restore peace and establish bilateral

Provisions:

• Peaceful Resolution: Dispute resolution via direct talks.
• Respect for Sovereignty: Territorial integrity commitment.
• LoC: Maintenance of the Line of Control.
• Prisoner Release: Release of 93,000 Pakistani POWs.

Impact of Suspension:

• Tensions Escalate: Risk of increased conflict, particularly along the LoC.
• Shift in Strategy: Pakistan may seek international mediation on Kashmir, contradicting the agreement.