logo
The treaty that kept India and Pakistan in check is gone. Now what?

The treaty that kept India and Pakistan in check is gone. Now what?

IOL News07-05-2025

Paramilitary soldiers inspect the damaged building of the Government Health and Educational Complex after Indian strikes in Muridke, about 30 kilometers from Lahore, on May 7, 2025. India and Pakistan exchanged heavy artillery along their contested frontier on May 7, after New Delhi launched missile strikes on its arch-rival in a major escalation between the nuclear-armed neighbours.
Air Marshal Anil Chopra
India launched 'Operation Sindoor' on the night of May 7, targeting terrorist infrastructure in Pakistan in retaliation for a deadly terrorist attack in Pahalgram, Kashmir last month. New Delhi stated that it hit at least nine targets.
'Our actions have been focused, measured, and non-escalatory in nature. No Pakistani military facilities have been targeted. India has demonstrated considerable restraint in the selection of targets and method of execution,' the Indian government said in a statement.
Pakistan's Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif descried the strikes as a 'cowardly' attack and said Islamabad "has every right to respond forcefully to this act of war imposed by India, and a forceful response is being given."
Tensions between India and Pakistan escalated to military actions following the killing of 26 innocent vacationers in Pahalgam, Kashmir by Pakistan-backed terrorists in a Hamas-style terror attack.
Pakistan Army and Inter Services Intelligence (ISI) links were established by India's National Investigation Agency days after the mass killing. The public was angry, and sought appropriate revenge.
A wide range of diplomatic and economic measures were announced by both nations following the attack. Remarkably, India has put the 1960 Indus Water Treaty (IWT) in abeyance for the first time since the pact was inked by the two neighbors. Rejecting India's move to suspend the IWT, Pakistan warned that any diversion of water will be treated as an 'Act of War.' Islamabad also said that it would hold 'in abeyance' its participation in all bilateral agreements with India, including the landmark 1972 Simla Agreement.
Pakistan pledged a full-spectrum national power response to any threat against its sovereignty, put its armed forces on high alert, and began selective mobilisation. Most measures were quite expected. But by suspending the Shimla Agreement, Pakistan unwittingly handed over big advantage to India.
What is the Shimla Agreement?
The Shimla agreement between India and Pakistan was signed on July 2, 1972 at Barnes Court (Raj Bhavan) in the town of Shimla in the Indian state of Himachal Pradesh, between then-Indian Prime Minister Indira Gandhi and her Pakistani counterpart Zulfikar Ali Bhutto. It was ratified on July 15, 1972 (by Pakistan), and August 3, 1972 (by India), and became effective the next day.
The agreement had come in the wake of Pakistan's comprehensive defeat in the 1971 war that split the country and created independent Bangladesh.
The agreement stated:'The Government of India and the Government of Pakistan are resolved that the two countries put an end to the conflict and confrontation that have hitherto marred their relations and work for the promotion of a friendly arid harmonious relationship and the establishment of durable peace in the sub-continent, so that both countries may henceforth devote their resources and energies to the pressing task of advancing the welfare of their peoples.'
The document was meant to lay the foundation of a peaceful and stable relationship between the two nations. It was decided that the two countries are resolved 'to settle their differences by peaceful means through bilateral negotiations or by any other peaceful means mutually agreed upon between them.'
The treaty mandated that the two countries resolve issues bilaterally, and superseded the United Nation's resolution on Kashmir. Perhaps more importantly, under the agreement, India and Pakistan established the Line of Control (LoC), previously called the Ceasefire Line, making it a quasi-border between the two nations.
New Delhi succeeded in persuading Islamabad to change the name of the ceasefire line to the Line of Control (LoC), thus delinking it from the UN-imposed 1949 ceasefire line and highlighting that Kashmir was now a purely bilateral matter between India and Pakistan.
The treaty clearly stated that Indian and Pakistani forces must be withdrawn to their respective sides of the 'international border.' That in Jammu and Kashmir, the LoC resulting from the cease-fire of December 17, 1971, shall be respected by both sides without prejudice toward the recognised position of either side.
Neither side shall seek to alter it unilaterally, irrespective of mutual differences and legal interpretations. India returned around 13,000 square kilometers of land taken in battle on the western border but retained some strategic areas, including Turtuk, Dhothang, Tyakshi, and Chalunka in Chorbat Valley, covering more than 883 square kilometers, so as to facilitate lasting peace. Both sides further agreed to refrain from the threat or the use of force in violation of the LoC.
The fact that there has only been one limited war since the agreement was signed reflects its effectiveness.
Some Indian bureaucrats later argued that a tacit agreement to convert this LoC into a international border, was reached during a one-on-one meeting between the two heads of government. Pakistani bureaucrats have denied any such thing. Nor was that acceptable to Indian public.
The Shimla agreement called on both sides to resolve all issues bilaterally. But Pakistan never respected this part of the treaty, and has taken matters to an international level, especially by doing chest-beating over Kashmir at the UN. The latest example of this attitude is Pakistan's outcry over the Abolition of Article 370 by the Narendra Modi-led government in 2019. One critical clause was that 'both shall prevent the organisation, assistance or encouragement of any acts detrimental to the maintenance of peaceful and harmonious relations.'
Pakistan has been engaging in cross-border terrorism as a foreign policy tool to bleed India and to foster separatism in Kashmir, as well as to keep the Indian Armed Forces pinned down. Some of the major Pakistan-sponsored Islamist attacks against India have included a terrorist attack on the Parliament of India in New Delhi on December 13, 2001, the attack on the Akshardham temple in Gandhinagar in 2002; the Mumbai train blasts in 2003; twin blasts at Gateway of India and Zaveri Bazaar in Mumbai in 2005, Delhi bombings and 2006 Mumbai train bombings, train blasts in Jaipur in 2008, and the tragic Mumbai attacks in November 2008.
The latest large-scale attacks occurred in Kashmir: a deadly terrorist attack on the Army camp in Uri killed 17 Indian soldiers and an attack on the military convoy in Pulwama resulted in the death of 40 personnel.

Orange background

Try Our AI Features

Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:

Comments

No comments yet...

Related Articles

BRICS+ Series: India Taps BRICS to Strengthen Energy
BRICS+ Series: India Taps BRICS to Strengthen Energy

IOL News

time15 hours ago

  • IOL News

BRICS+ Series: India Taps BRICS to Strengthen Energy

This picture taken on January 11, 2024, shows employees working at a manufacturing plant of blades for wind turbines owned by India's Adani Group in Mundra. India, a major global oil consumer relying heavily on imports, has historically been susceptible to fluctuations in Western oil prices and geopolitical pressures. This vulnerability, stemming from importing over 85% of its crude oil, exposed the nation to supply disruptions and external political factors. However, collaborative efforts within BRICS are now reshaping India's energy approach. Energy is evolving into a strategic tool for global influence, diminishing reliance on traditional markets and challenging established power dynamics. This shift marks a move away from mere commodity dependence toward a more geopolitically nuanced energy strategy. Diversification through BRICS Partnerships India has drastically increased its crude oil imports from Russia. As Western sanctions against Moscow intensified in 2023, Indian refineries leveraged discounted Russian oil. Consequently, Russia's share of India's total oil imports surged from under 2% before the Ukraine war to over 40% by mid-2024. This wasn't a simple chance to save money; it symbolised a larger strategy to break away from supply chains and financial networks dominated by the West. India's strengthening ties with Iran, a key energy provider in the Global South and recent BRICS addition, suggest a push to revitalise the stalled Chabahar Port project and restart oil imports previously stopped due to U.S. sanctions. BRICS collaboration provides a buffer against such unilateral limitations by promoting alternative trade methods, such as local currency settlements, the BRICS Pay system, and possible substitutes for SWIFT. These resources directly bolster India's energy independence. The partnership between India and the UAE, a fellow BRICS member, holds significant importance. Abu Dhabi is not just a key oil provider, but also invests in India's strategic petroleum reserves and related infrastructure. Further strengthening this robust South-South energy alliance, the UAE's sovereign wealth funds have jointly invested in India's renewable energy projects, demonstrating a comprehensive collaboration spanning both conventional and clean energy sectors. BRICS as a Platform for Energy Sovereignty BRICS transcends a mere convenient alliance, rapidly evolving into a powerful instrument for its members to achieve energy sovereignty. The group's advocacy for dedollarisation, balanced global governance, and cooperation among developing nations is significantly altering the structure of the global energy sector. For India, this shift means a broader range of energy providers, advantageous trade arrangements, and increased independence in its energy-related international relations. Established in 2015, the BRICS Energy Research Cooperation Platform has facilitated joint studies, technology exchanges, and policy dialogues that significantly contribute to India's energy planning. Notably, India hosted the BRICS Energy Dialogue in 2022, advocating for joint investments in upstream oil and gas exploration and South-South capacity building. This has led to tangible collaborative projects in Africa and Central Asia. In these regions, BRICS members, including Indian public sector undertakings such as ONGC Videsh, are jointly developing oil fields and refining infrastructure. India's dedication to energy transition gains significant backing from BRICS. Notably, India collaborates with China and Brazil to promote solar energy through the International Solar Alliance. Moreover, BRICS' green finance instruments, such as the New Development Bank (NDB), are channeling funds into India's clean energy ventures. These include solar parks in Madhya Pradesh and wind energy farms in Gujarat. Strategic Autonomy and Global Realignment India's energy security is intrinsically tied to the broader geopolitical shift towards a multipolar world. The Global South, historically marked by unequal dependencies, is now asserting its strategic independence. BRICS plays a pivotal role in this transformation, providing India with political and economic stability against the pressure tactics of established powers. This is especially crucial during global disruptions such as the COVID-19 pandemic, sanctions, or financial crises. While concerns exist that stronger energy partnerships with nations such as Russia or Iran could complicate India's relations with Western powers, India's foreign policy is driven by strategic autonomy, not non-alignment. Western nations must recognize that a self-assured Global South will not sacrifice its energy security to geopolitical maneuvers. Energy as Empowerment India's strategic energy realignment within BRICS signifies a profound move towards economic autonomy, not merely a simple shift. Through these alliances, India actively reduces price volatility, ensures stable, extended-term energy resources, and cultivates an energy sector that reflects both its developmental goals and its strategic position in global politics. As the Global South's influence grows, BRICS establishes a framework for a fairer, more secure energy future, positioning India – with its significant population and development goals – as a key player. In an era of energy instability and geopolitical competition, BRICS presents India with strategic advantages, extending beyond mere oil resources. Written By: *Dr Iqbal Survé Past chairman of the BRICS Business Council and co-chairman of the BRICS Media Forum and the BRNN *Sesona Mdlokovana Associate at BRICS+ Consulting Group UAE & African Specialist **The Views expressed do not necessarily reflect the views of Independent Media or IOL. ** MORE ARTICLES ON OUR WEBSITE ** Follow @brics_daily on Twitter for daily BRICS+ updates and instagram @brics_daily

Tensions rise in Pakistan after Baloch rebels kill alleged army agent
Tensions rise in Pakistan after Baloch rebels kill alleged army agent

IOL News

timea day ago

  • IOL News

Tensions rise in Pakistan after Baloch rebels kill alleged army agent

The BLA claims Muhammad Ameen and his group were responsible for several attacks on their fighters over the years. Image: Supplied The Baloch Liberation Army (BLA), a militant group fighting for independence in Pakistan's Balochistan province, says it was behind a deadly bomb blast that killed a man they claim was working with the Pakistani army. The target was Muhammad Ameen, who the BLA says helped the military carry out secret operations in Balochistan. He and his son, Naveed Ameen, were killed when their vehicle was hit by a remote-controlled bomb in the Zamuran area. According to BLA spokesperson Jeeyand Baloch, Ameen was part of a "death squad" that had been working with the army to arrest, kill and make political activists disappear. 'He was protected by the army and allowed to run drug operations in return for his dirty work,' said the spokesperson. The BLA is a separatist group that wants independence for Balochistan, a region in southwest Pakistan. They accuse the Pakistani government of exploiting Balochistan's natural resources while keeping the local people poor, silent and under military control. For years, the BLA and other Baloch nationalist groups have been fighting against the state. This conflict has led to hundreds of deaths, forced disappearances, and widespread fear among local communities. The BLA claims Muhammad Ameen and his group were responsible for several attacks on their fighters over the years. In 2018, they say his squad killed two of their members in the Jalagi area. In 2020, five more BLA fighters were allegedly killed by Ameen's network in another part of Balochistan. Video Player is loading. Play Video Play Unmute Current Time 0:00 / Duration -:- Loaded : 0% Stream Type LIVE Seek to live, currently behind live LIVE Remaining Time - 0:00 This is a modal window. Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Window Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Dropshadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps Reset restore all settings to the default values Done Close Modal Dialog End of dialog window. Advertisement Next Stay Close ✕ The BLA believes this latest bombing was payback for those killings. Balochistan has been described by human rights groups as one of the most dangerous and heavily policed areas in Pakistan. The Pakistani government says it is fighting terrorists in the region. But local activists say innocent people—especially young men—are often targeted just for speaking out. Harsh security laws in Pakistan give soldiers the power to arrest people without a proper investigation. Many of those arrested are never seen again, and those who are taken to court often face unfair trials in secret military courts. Torture is also commonly reported. One local activist told The Citizen that people in Balochistan are living under constant fear. 'The army can come into your house without warning. People disappear and families never get answers,' the activist said. Adding to the problem is tight media control. Journalists are not free to report on what's really happening in Balochistan, meaning the rest of Pakistan—and the world—rarely sees or hears the full story. The Pakistani government has not responded publicly to the bombing or the BLA's claims. However, the attack is expected to increase tensions in an already unstable region. While the BLA's use of violence is criticised by the state, the group still has support among many Baloch people who feel forgotten and abused by the government. For now, the people of Balochistan remain trapped in a deadly tug-of-war between the military and the rebels—both of whom have been accused of human rights violations.

India surpasses Japan to become the world's 4th largest economy
India surpasses Japan to become the world's 4th largest economy

IOL News

timea day ago

  • IOL News

India surpasses Japan to become the world's 4th largest economy

This pivotal moment led by India Prime Minister Narendra Modi underscores India's commitment to amplifying the voice of the Global South and fostering deeper ties with Africa. Image: EPA-EFE/HEIN HTET IN a defining moment within our Epoch, India has officially overtaken Japan to become the fourth-largest economy in the world. As confirmed by leading assessments from the International Monetary Fund (IMF), World Bank, and other key institutions. This milestone is not just a reflection of economic growth; it is a powerful statement about the rising potential of the Global South, particularly for countries within the BRICS+ nations. Projections also indicate that India is on course to overtake Germany by 2027, further cementing its position on the global stage. For our Centre, focused on exploring alternative pathways for the Global South and the BRICS+ framework. India's rise provides profound insights and tangible lessons as we collectively navigate the challenges of colonial legacies, pervasive poverty, and stark inequality. India's journey also aligns with our research focus on the developments centred around the African Union (AU), with particular interest in its recent role as chair of the 2023 G20, during which the AU was granted permanent membership after India's proposal for the AU's full membership into the G20. This pivotal moment, led by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, underscores India's commitment to amplifying the voice of the Global South and fostering deeper ties with Africa. Video Player is loading. Play Video Play Unmute Current Time 0:00 / Duration -:- Loaded : 0% Stream Type LIVE Seek to live, currently behind live LIVE Remaining Time - 0:00 This is a modal window. Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Window Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Dropshadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps Reset restore all settings to the default values Done Close Modal Dialog End of dialog window. Advertisement Video Player is loading. Play Video Play Unmute Current Time 0:00 / Duration -:- Loaded : 0% Stream Type LIVE Seek to live, currently behind live LIVE Remaining Time - 0:00 This is a modal window. Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Window Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Dropshadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps Reset restore all settings to the default values Done Close Modal Dialog End of dialog window. Next Stay Close ✕ For many pundits, India's rise to this unprecedented economic status was not a product of chance. This pivotal development signifies India's commitment to elevating the voice of the Global South and fostering deeper economic ties with Africa. For our Centre, focused on exploring alternative pathways for the Global South, India's journey serves as both a profound inspiration and a valuable guide as we collectively address the enduring challenges of colonial legacies, pervasive poverty, and stark inequality. While we recognise ongoing challenges such as equitable growth and job creation, key catalytic projects under Modi's leadership have catapulted India to the table of nations. This can largely be attributed to the decisive leadership of Modi. Under his stewardship since 2014, India has ascended to become a formidable IT resource hub, with talented Indians now at the helm of some of the largest fintech companies globally. This remarkable transformation exemplifies Modi's vision for an economically vibrant and technologically advanced nation. Our continent stands at a crucial turning point in its journey. Our collective histories speak of tales of colonial exploitation, and our current realities contend with poverty, inequality, and enduring unemployment. Africa and India are still behind the Global North and Advanced Asia, but India is quickly catching up, having embraced its colonial past not as an impediment but a lesson of courage and resilience. India's remarkable rise to become the world's fourth-largest economy demonstrates that with visionary leadership and political will, we, too, can transition from the peripheries of the global economy. It is possible, and India is paving the way for a new path to prosperity for its population of more than 1.2 billion people. The Global South is rising. India's position should serve as a realignment of the global economic order, emphasising the power of South-to-South cooperation. India's achievement in becoming the world's fourth-largest economy within our lifetime is not merely an Indian milestone; it is a beacon of hope for Africa and a testimony to what is attainable. 'The last shall be first and the first shall be the last.' India's achievement is not only a milestone for India, it serves as a beacon for Africa and reaffirms that countries of the Global South can transform their economic futures and their fate. We truly draw inspiration from these moments. * Phapano Phasha is the chairperson of The Centre for Alternative Political and Economic Thought. ** The views expressed here do not reflect those of the Sunday Independent, IOL, or Independent Media.

DOWNLOAD THE APP

Get Started Now: Download the App

Ready to dive into the world of global news and events? Download our app today from your preferred app store and start exploring.
app-storeplay-store