Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
The Tashkent Agreement was a peace treaty mediated by the Soviet Union to end the hostilities of the 1965 war between India and Pakistan.
This event is significant as it showcased the Soviet Union's role as a regional mediator in South Asia.
Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
The Indo-Pakistani War of 1965 was a culmination of skirmishes that took place between April and September 1965.
It primarily concerned the status of Jammu and Kashmir.
After the UN-mandated ceasefire, the Soviet Premier, Alexei Kosygin, invited the leaders of both nations to Tashkent (modern-day Uzbekistan).
The Agreement:
The meeting took place in January 1966 between:
- Lal Bahadur Shastri, the Prime Minister of India.
- Ayub Khan, the President of Pakistan.
The agreement was signed on January 10, 1966.
Key Clauses:
1. Both nations agreed to withdraw their forces to the positions they held before August 5, 1965 (the Status Quo Ante).
2. Both sides pledged to resolve their differences through peaceful means and non-interference in internal affairs.
3. Plans to restore diplomatic and economic relations were established.
Aftermath:
The agreement was controversial in both countries.
In India, many were unhappy about returning the strategic Haji Pir Pass.
Tragically, Prime Minister Lal Bahadur Shastri died of a heart attack in Tashkent just a few hours after the signing, leading to a political crisis in India and the eventual succession of Indira Gandhi.
Step 3: Final Answer:
The agreement was a direct outcome of the 1965 war.
Hence, the correct answer is Option (C).