What is the Shimla Agreement? Which Pakistan announced to break, who will benefit from it, who will harm

Pakistan on Thursday suspended the 1972 Shimla Agreement, blocked its airspace for Indian airlines, shut down the Wagah border crossing, stopped all trade with India, and said that any attempt to turn the water prescribed for Pakistan under the Indus Water Treaty would be considered to be a war action. These announcements were made after a meeting chaired by Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif to prepare the country’s reaction to India’s move to suspend the Indus Water Treaty and reduce diplomatic relations after the Pahalgam terror attack.

After the 1971 war, the Shimla Agreement was signed between India and Pakistan. From 28 June to 2 July 1972, there were several rounds of discussions in Shimla, Himachal Pradesh. The agreement was signed by the then Indian Prime Minister Indira Gandhi and Pakistan President Zulfikar Ali Bhutto. The purpose of this agreement was to reduce the stress after the war and promote peaceful co-existence. India defeated Pakistan in the 1971 war and helped to create an independent Bangladesh.

Bilateral solution of disputes: India and Pakistan agreed to resolve all controversies, especially the Jammu and Kashmir issue through bilateral talks. This section effectively removed the Kashmir issue from international forums like the United Nations.

Honor to Line of Control: The two countries agreed to honor the ceasefire line established on 17 December 1971. It is known as the Line of Control (LoC), and both sides agreed not to change it unilaterally.

Return of region and prisoners: India agreed to return the areas occupied in Western Pakistan and release 90,000 prisoners. In return, Pakistan promised to recognize Bangladesh and normalize bilateral relations.

Peace and cooperation: The two countries committed to respect each other’s sovereignty and avoid the use of force. They also agreed to improve business, communication and cultural exchange.

Atomic stability: The agreement strengthened the importance of reducing the risk of nuclear growth and promoting regional stability. The two countries confirmed their commitment to the principles of the United Nations Charter.

The Shimla Agreement helped India bring the Kashmir issue to the bilateral platform. This stopped India from opposing external pressure and giving Pakistan a chance to internationalize the matter. It also contributed to reducing military tension and promoting stability in South Asia. The war and agreement established India as a major regional power. The leadership of Prime Minister Indira Gandhi enhanced India’s position on the global stage. For Pakistan, the agreement ensured its return to its soldiers and region, but failed to make Kashmir an international issue. However, repeated ceasefire violations and terrorism support has weakened the credibility of the agreement over time.

It is definitely that if Pakistan also makes a formal announcement to break the Shimla Agreement, it will not be benefiting. As far as India is concerned, it is already suffering from Pakistan’s policies. If there is loss, then not only of India but also of Pakistan.