Detained BSF jawan Purnam Kumar Shaw returns from Pakistan

BSF jawan Purnam Kumar Shaw, who was detained by Pakistan Rangers after accidentally crossing the International Border on April 23, was handed back to India on Tuesday at the Attari Joint Check Post in Amritsar. The Border Security Force confirmed that the return took place peacefully, adhering to established protocols.

Shaw, a 40-year-old soldier from Hooghly, West Bengal, had inadvertently crossed into Pakistan while on patrol in Punjab’s Firozpur sector. The incident occurred a day after the Pahalgam terror attack, which killed 26 people, leading to heightened tensions between the two countries and delaying his return.

Despite repeated requests, Pakistan had initially refused to respond to flag meeting proposals due to the post-attack hostility. Indian authorities lodged a formal protest and continued diplomatic efforts to secure his release. Shaw, in uniform and armed at the time of crossing, was held for over two weeks.

His wife Rajani Shaw, who is pregnant, had flown to Chandigarh along with their son and family members in hopes of receiving updates. She remained in close contact with officials, and West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee also offered her support, speaking with Rajani multiple times.

Following Shaw’s safe return, CM Banerjee expressed her relief and joy. “I am happy that our jawan has come home. My best wishes to him and his family,” she posted on X. Rajani, visibly emotional, thanked everyone who supported her during the ordeal.

With 17 years of service in the BSF, Shaw’s return not only brought closure to his family but also highlighted the challenges and risks faced by border personnel. The incident serves as a reminder of the human side of defense operations and the need for continued diplomatic engagement in border management.