Breaking News
BSF Jawan Purnam Kumar Shaw Returns to India After Pakistan Handover
Amritsar, May 14, 2025 – Border Security Force (BSF) constable Purnam Kumar Shaw was repatriated to India today after 21 days in Pakistan’s custody, following his accidental border crossing on April 23. The handover at the Attari-Wagah border marks a rare moment of cooperation amid India-Pakistan tensions. Here’s the full story and its significance.
The Handover
On May 14 at 10:30 AM IST, Pakistan Rangers handed Shaw over to BSF officials at the Attari-Wagah Joint Check Post, Amritsar, per an official BSF statement. “We are relieved to have our jawan back safely,” the BSF said, acknowledging flag meetings and diplomatic efforts coordinated with the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA). Shaw, 40, appeared physically stable and was taken for medical evaluation and debriefing, per the BSF.
The Incident
Shaw, from the 182nd BSF Battalion, inadvertently crossed into Pakistan’s Ferozepur sector on April 23 while on duty near the International Border, per the BSF. Stationed in Punjab, he was escorting farmers when he crossed the “zero line.” Pakistan Rangers detained him, and his service rifle was recovered, per an MEA briefing. The incident occurred amid heightened tensions following a terror attack in Pahalgam, per the BSF.
The Ordeal
Shaw’s family, including his pregnant wife, Rajani, sought his release, supported by West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee. “I assured Rajani of all possible assistance,” Banerjee stated, per an official release from the West Bengal government. Diplomatic talks, initially delayed by regional tensions, progressed after a May 10 ceasefire agreement, per the MEA. The BSF and MEA worked jointly to secure Shaw’s release through hotline communications with Pakistan Rangers.
Where Things Stand
Shaw, a resident of Hooghly, West Bengal, with 17 years of BSF service, showed no major health concerns, per the BSF. He will undergo a routine inquiry and counseling before returning to duty. Pakistan’s handover coincided with India’s release of a Pakistani Ranger, indicating mutual goodwill, per the MEA. The BSF emphasized that Shaw’s return strengthens morale among border personnel.
Why It Matters
The repatriation, facilitated by sustained diplomacy, underscores the importance of dialogue despite bilateral strains. Public reactions on social media platforms reflected relief, with posts praising the BSF’s efforts, per BSF’s official updates. The handover, occurring during India’s ongoing counterterrorism operations, highlights the human element of border duties, per the MEA. Shaw’s safe return has been celebrated as a diplomatic success.
What’s Next?
Shaw will reunite with his family after medical checks and debriefing, per the BSF. The force plans to review border patrol protocols to prevent future incidents, per an official statement. For now, Shaw’s return offers a moment of unity in a challenging border region.
