How was the line of control in Kashmir established?

The Line of Control (LoC) in Kashmir was established through a multi-stage process following the partition of the Indian subcontinent in 1947.

Following the Instrument of Accession signed by Maharaja Hari Singh in October 1947, conflict erupted between India and Pakistan. This localized warfare continued until 1948 and was concluded by a United Nations-brokered ceasefire that took effect in January 1949. In July 1949, India and Pakistan defined a ceasefire line to divide the administration of the territory.12

This original ceasefire line was later converted into the Line of Control as part of the Simla Agreement of 1972, which was signed following the 1971 India-Pakistan War. Under this agreement, both nations committed to respecting the line without unilateral alteration, though it is not recognized as an international border. While intended to normalize relations and prevent future armed conflict, the line remains a site of ongoing tension and military presence.13452