What is Simla Agreement 1972? Know About The Pact Suspended By Pakistan
New Delhi: A day after India's series of strong diplomatic measures against Pakistan, the latter on Thursday announced the suspension of the 1972 Simla Agreement, a significant peace treaty signed between India and Pakistan after the 1971 Indo-Pakistani war.
What is the Simla Agreement?
The Simla Agreement was a peace treaty signed on 2 July 1972 in Shimla, Himachal Pradesh, following the Indo-Pakistan War of 1971, which led to the formation of Bangladesh.
The objective of the Simla Agreement was to bring an end to the long-standing conflict between India and Pakistan. It aimed to normalise the relations between the two nations and laid down the principles for future interactions between the two countries.
Both nations agreed to resolve any differences through peaceful means and bilateral negotiations, without third-party intervention. This was particularly relevant for the Kashmir dispute, as India insisted that the issue be addressed bilaterally, as per the Simla Agreement.
The ceasefire line that existed after the 1971 war was transformed into the Line of Control (LOC) between India and Pakistan. The agreement said that neither country would attempt to alter this line unilaterally, despite differing interpretations of the issue.
According to the pact, India returned over 13,000 km² of land it had seized during the war. However, India retained a few strategic areas, such as Turtuk, Dhothang, Tyakshi, and Chalunka in the Chorbat Valley, which was around 883 km².
The accord eventually led to Pakistan's diplomatic recognition of Bangladesh, acknowledging the new nation's sovereignty.
The pact stipulated the withdrawal of Indian and Pakistani forces to their respective sides of the international border.
Both Governments agreed that their respective Heads will meet again at a mutually convenient time in the future and that, in the meanwhile, the representatives of the two sides will meet to discuss further the modalities and arrangements for the establishment of durable peace and normalization of relations, including the questions of repatriation of prisoners of war and civilian internees, a final settlement of Jammu and Kashmir and the resumption of diplomatic relations.
Apart from suspending the Simla pact, the Wagah border will be closed with immediate effect. All transit from India through this route is suspended. Indian nationals who entered Pakistan through Wagah with valid endorsements must return by April 30.
All visas under the SAARC Visa Exemption Scheme (SVES) issued to Indian nationals have been cancelled with immediate effect, barring Sikh religious pilgrims. Indians currently in Pakistan under the scheme have been asked to leave within 48 hours.
Pakistan’s airspace is now closed for all Indian-owned or Indian-operated airlines.
All trade with India, including via third countries, has been suspended. The Indian Defence, Naval and Air Advisors in Islamabad have been declared persona non grata and must leave the country by April 30. Their positions in the High Commission stand annulled.
The strength of India’s High Commission in Islamabad will be reduced to 30 staff members by the end of the month.
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