How did the Bangladesh Liberation War impact India-Pakistan relations

The Bangladesh Liberation War of 1971 profoundly transformed India-Pakistan relations, deepening hostility and reshaping the balance of power in South Asia. Key Impacts: Severe Strain and Enduring Hostility: The war resulted in the breakup of Pakistan and the creation of Bangladesh, a humiliating loss for Pakistan that left "deep scars" and undermined its national confidence. The scale of Pakistan's military defeat-over 93,000 troops surrendered, the largest such capitulation since World War II-cemented a sense of grievance and distrust that continues to influence bilateral relations. Shift in Regional Power: India emerged as the dominant regional power, having demonstrated military superiority and diplomatic skill by isolating Pakistan internationally. This altered the strategic landscape, with India gaining new confidence and Pakistan seeking ways to reassert itself, including the pursuit of nuclear weapons. Unresolved Disputes and Continuing Tensions: The Simla Agreement (1972) was intended to normalize relations and address issues like Kashmir, but it failed to resolve core disputes. Kashmir remained a flashpoint, and subsequent decades saw continued conflict, insurgency, and even nuclear brinkmanship. Long-term Security Rivalry: The trauma of 1971 led Pakistan to intensify its security competition with India, including military modernization and a focus on nuclear deterrence. Both countries have since engaged in further wars (e.g., Kargil 1999) and numerous crises. Human and Economic Consequences: The influx of about 10 million refugees from East Pakistan strained India's economy and social fabric, while the war's devastation left lasting wounds in the region. Summary: The Bangladesh Liberation War marked a turning point, embedding deep mistrust and antagonism in India-Pakistan relations. It elevated India’s status as a regional power, left Pakistan determined to recover its strategic position, and ensured that the rivalry-especially over Kashmir-would remain a defining feature of South Asian geopolitics.