Historic 1972 Simla Pact Suspended by Pakistan in Retaliatory Move

Pakistan made a startling announcement on Thursday declaring the suspension of the historic Simla Agreement, a pivotal document that has defined bilateral relations between India and Pakistan for decades. The decision was reportedly taken in response to India’s stringent actions following the recent terror attack in Pahalgam. Islamabad stated that the suspension was a retaliatory measure to these developments.

The Simla Agreement was signed in the aftermath of the 1971 Indo-Pakistani War, in which India emerged victorious and played a significant role in the creation of Bangladesh. The agreement was intended to pave the way for the restoration of normal relations between the two neighbouring countries.

On July 2, 1972, then Indian Prime Minister Indira Gandhi and Pakistani President Zulfikar Ali Bhutto signed the agreement in Simla, Himachal Pradesh. A cornerstone principle of this accord was the commitment by both nations to resolve all disputes through peaceful means and bilateral dialogue, explicitly excluding third-party mediation.

According to the agreement, the ceasefire line established following the 1971 war was redefined and acknowledged by both sides as the Line of Control (LoC). Both countries agreed not to alter this line unilaterally. The document also emphasized adherence to the principles of the United Nations Charter, mutual respect for each other's territorial integrity, and sovereignty.

There has been no official response from India so far regarding Pakistan’s announcement. While the immediate implications of suspending the Simla Agreement may not be evident on the ground, experts have warned that this move could escalate diplomatic and military tensions in the future.