Following the tragic terrorist attacks in Pahalgam, India has taken diplomatic steps against Pakistan. The attacks resulted in the loss of 26 lives on April 22, prompting India to suspend the 1960 Indus Water Treaty. This suspension marks a notable shift in India’s diplomatic stance. Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri announced that Defence, Naval, and Air Advisors from the Pakistani High Commission in New Delhi have been declared persona non grata. They must leave India within a week. Additionally, India will withdraw its own advisors from Islamabad.
About Persona Non Grata
Persona non grata is a Latin term meaning “unwelcome person.” In diplomatic contexts, it refers to an individual whose entry into a country is prohibited. The concept was formalised in the 1961 Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations. This treaty establishes the treatment of diplomats and their rights in host countries. Article 9 allows any country to declare a diplomat persona non grata at any time without needing to provide an explanation. Once declared, the individual typically returns to their home country.
Circumstances for Declaration
There are no strict rules dictating when a person can be declared persona non grata. The Vienna Convention does not require an explanation for such a declaration. Historically, countries have employed this designation to express discontent with another nation’s actions. For instance, during the Cold War, the US and the Soviet Union frequently declared each other’s diplomats persona non grata as a form of retaliation.
Recent Examples of Persona Non Grata Designations
In 2023, China declared a Canadian envoy persona non grata after allegations of interference in Canadian elections. This action followed Canada expelling a Chinese diplomat for similar reasons. In previous instances, India labelled a Pakistani High Commission staffer persona non grata in 2016 due to espionage activities. The designation is not limited to diplomats; for example, actor Brad Pitt was declared persona non grata by China over his role in the film “Seven Years in Tibet,” although the ban was lifted in 2014.
Implications of Downgrading Diplomatic Relations
Downgrading diplomatic relations can have broad implications. It can lead to increased tensions between nations. Such actions may affect trade, security cooperation, and international relations. The suspension of treaties, like the Indus Water Treaty, can impact water sharing and regional stability. This move reflects deterioration in India-Pakistan relations, often characterised by historical conflicts and disputes.
Historical Context of Diplomatic Relations
India and Pakistan have a complex history marked by conflict and rivalry. Since their partition in 1947, both nations have engaged in multiple wars and ongoing disputes, particularly over the Kashmir region. Diplomatic relations have fluctuated between attempts at dialogue and periods of heightened tensions. The recent attacks in Pahalgam have intensified this cycle, leading to further isolation and sanctions.
Global Reactions and Future Prospects
International reactions to India’s decision may vary. Some nations may support India’s stance against terrorism, while others may call for dialogue and peace. The future of India-Pakistan relations remains uncertain. The situation requires careful navigation to prevent escalation and promote regional stability.
Questions for UPSC:
- Critically analyse the implications of declaring diplomats persona non grata in international relations.
- Point out the historical context of the Indus Water Treaty and its significance in India-Pakistan relations.
- Estimate the impact of terrorism on diplomatic relations between countries with examples.
- What are the potential consequences of downgrading diplomatic relations? Discuss with suitable examples.
Answer Hints:
1. Critically analyse the implications of declaring diplomats persona non grata in international relations.
- It serves as a strong diplomatic protest, signaling discontent with another nation’s actions.
- Can escalate tensions, leading to retaliatory measures and deterioration of bilateral relations.
- May affect international cooperation on various issues, including trade and security.
- Can disrupt diplomatic channels, making future negotiations more challenging.
- Historically used as a tool during conflicts, exemplified during the Cold War between superpowers.
2. Point out the historical context of the Indus Water Treaty and its significance in India-Pakistan relations.
- Signed in 1960, it was brokered by the World Bank to manage water sharing of the Indus River system.
- Significantly reduced tensions over water resources, crucial for both nations’ agriculture and economy.
- Has been a point of contention during conflicts, especially in the context of military tensions.
- Suspension of the treaty reflects deteriorating relations and raises concerns over water security.
- Historically, it has symbolized cooperation despite ongoing disputes over Kashmir and other issues.
3. Estimate the impact of terrorism on diplomatic relations between countries with examples.
- Terrorism often leads to heightened security measures and distrust between nations.
- Can result in the downgrading of diplomatic relations, as seen in India’s response to the Pahalgam attacks.
- Countries may impose sanctions or declare diplomats persona non grata in response to terrorist acts.
- Historical examples include the US invasion of Afghanistan post-9/11, altering global alliances.
- May also prompt international coalitions against terrorism, affecting diplomatic dynamics positively.
4. What are the potential consequences of downgrading diplomatic relations? Discuss with suitable examples.
- Increased tensions can lead to military confrontations or conflicts, as seen in India-Pakistan history.
- Trade relations may suffer, impacting economies and livelihoods on both sides.
- Withdrawal of diplomatic advisors can hinder communication and exacerbate misunderstandings.
- Suspension of treaties, like the Indus Water Treaty, can create resource disputes and instability.
- Long-term isolation can affect a country’s global standing and relationships with other nations.
