Explanation:

An agreement to do an illegal act, such as sharing the earnings of a smuggling business, is considered void. Let's understand why this is the case:

1. Void Agreement:
- A void agreement is a contract that is not enforceable by law and has no legal effect. It is essentially treated as if it never existed.
- Section 23 of the Indian Contract Act, 1872 states that agreements that are against public policy or involve illegal activities are void.
- In the case of an agreement to do an illegal act, it goes against public policy and is therefore considered void.

2. Public Policy:
- Public policy refers to the principles and standards that guide the legal system and are based on what is considered morally right and in the best interest of the public.
- Agreements that go against public policy are not recognized by the law and are deemed void.
- The sharing of earnings from a smuggling business is an illegal act as it involves engaging in illegal activities and evading taxes or duties.
- Such an agreement is considered against public policy and therefore void.

3. Consequences of a Void Agreement:
- Since a void agreement is considered to have no legal effect, it cannot be enforced by any party.
- Neither party can claim any rights or remedies under a void agreement.
- Any money or property transferred under a void agreement cannot be recovered through legal means.
- In the case of a smuggling business, the agreement to share earnings would be void, and neither party would be able to seek legal recourse to enforce the agreement or claim their share of the earnings.

Conclusion:
In conclusion, an agreement to do an illegal act, such as sharing the earnings of a smuggling business, is considered void. Such agreements go against public policy and are not enforceable by law. It is important to adhere to legal and ethical principles when entering into agreements to ensure their validity and enforceability.