The Sir Creek dispute between India and Pakistan remains a critical issue in 2025. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh recently warned Pakistan against any misadventure in the Sir Creek sector. The region’s strategic and economic importance continues to shape bilateral relations and security concerns. The unresolved boundary affects military posturing, resource access, and local livelihoods.
Geographical and Strategic Importance
Sir Creek is a 96-km tidal estuary on the India-Pakistan border. It lies between Gujarat’s Rann of Kutch and Pakistan’s Sindh province. The area is marshy and sparsely populated. It floods during monsoons and is difficult to patrol. Despite this, it holds immense strategic value. Pakistan’s defence of Karachi depends on control over Sir Creek. Pakistan has expanded military infrastructure here, including bunkers and radar installations. India maintains a strong presence to deter threats and potential terror attacks launched via the creek.
Economic Importance and Resources
Sir Creek is believed to contain untapped oil and gas reserves. Both India and Pakistan see these as vital for energy security. India seeks to diversify oil imports and reduce dependence on traditional sources. The creek also supports rich fishing grounds. Fishermen from both countries depend on these waters for their livelihood. However, the unclear boundary causes frequent arrests of fishermen crossing the disputed waters, worsening local tensions and economic hardship.
Boundary Dispute and Legal Claims
The core of the dispute is the delimitation of the boundary in the creek. Pakistan claims the entire creek, while India insists on the mid-channel boundary based on the ‘Thalweg’ principle. This principle sets the boundary along the navigable channel of a watercourse. India argues the creek is navigable and hence the principle applies. Pakistan rejects this, claiming the creek is not navigable. The disagreement has historic roots dating back to early 20th century conflicts between Kutch and Sindh rulers.
Historical and Diplomatic Efforts
The dispute intensified after the 1965 India-Pakistan war. A tribunal in 1968 settled the Rann of Kutch boundary but excluded Sir Creek. Since then, multiple rounds of talks have taken place without resolution. India has rejected Pakistan’s attempts to internationalise the issue, insisting on bilateral dialogue per the Simla Accord. The last formal talks occurred in 2012. Attempts at comprehensive dialogue stalled after terrorist attacks and Pakistan’s alleged support for cross-border terrorism.
Impact on Exclusive Economic Zones (EEZs)
The Sir Creek boundary influences the delimitation of EEZs in the Arabian Sea. EEZs extend up to 200 nautical miles from the coast. Control over Sir Creek affects access to maritime resources for both countries. This includes fishing, oil, and gas exploration rights. The unresolved dispute thus has broader implications for maritime jurisdiction and economic zones beyond the immediate land boundary.
Security Concerns and Regional Stability
The militarisation of the Sir Creek area raises security risks. Pakistan’s forward bases can launch drone and infantry operations. India’s vigilance aims to prevent infiltration and terror attacks. The region’s difficult terrain complicates surveillance. The dispute remains a flashpoint, contributing to wider India-Pakistan tensions. It also affects local populations who face arrests and economic losses due to boundary uncertainties.
Questions for UPSC:
- Point out the strategic importance of disputed border regions in India-Pakistan relations with suitable examples.
- Critically analyse the role of the Thalweg principle in international boundary disputes and its applicability in the Sir Creek case.
- Estimate the impact of unresolved maritime boundary disputes on the economic development of coastal nations, citing relevant cases.
- Underline the challenges posed by cross-border terrorism on bilateral peace talks and regional security in South Asia.
