Islamabad's retaliation to India's strong measures following the Pahalgam terror attack has triggered the suspension of one of the most historic peace pacts between the two neighbours—the Simla Agreement. Is this a tipping point in India-Pakistan ties?

In a dramatic escalation of tensions with India, Pakistan has announced the suspension of the 1972 Simla Agreement—a pivotal accord signed in the aftermath of the 1971 Indo-Pak war. The move comes in direct response to India's recent actions following the terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir's Pahalgam, which claimed multiple lives and sent shockwaves across the nation.

Signed on July 2, 1972, the Simla Accord was a landmark moment between then Prime Minister Indira Gandhi and Pakistani President Zulfikar Ali Bhutto. Crafted to establish lasting peace, the agreement laid the groundwork for bilateral talks and mandated both countries to "respect the Line of Control (LoC) without prejudice to the recognised position of either side."

“Jammu and Kashmir, the line of control resulting from the cease-fire of December 17, 1971 shall be respected by both sides without prejudice to the recognised position of either side,” the agreement reads, adding that “neither side shall seek to alter it unilaterally, irrespective of mutual differences and legal interpretations.”

However, just a day after India retaliated against the Pahalgam attack, Islamabad hit back with a string of measures. These include:

• Suspension of the Simla Accord
• Closure of the Wagah border for trade
• Termination of Saarc visa exemptions for Indian citizens
• Expulsion of Indian military diplomats, declared persona non grata

These steps signal a steep downturn in diplomatic ties, with analysts warning of increased instability in the already volatile region.

The Simla Agreement was more than just a ceasefire document—it was a diplomatic bridge after a bloody conflict. The 1971 war, which led to the formation of Bangladesh, saw Pakistan surrender in Dhaka on December 16, 1971. In the wake of this, both countries agreed to chart a new path toward peace.

The suspension of this accord, while symbolic, carries implications for regional security and diplomatic dialogue. Experts believe it reflects Pakistan’s intent to raise global attention on Kashmir amid worsening bilateral ties.