BSF Jawan Purnam Shaw Returns Home After Accidental Crossing into Pakistan

In a significant development, Border Security Force (BSF) jawan Purnam Kumar Shaw, who was detained by Pakistan Rangers on April 23 after accidentally crossing the international border, was handed back to India on May 14. The repatriation took place at the Attari-Wagah border in Amritsar, marking the end of a tense 21-day ordeal for Shaw and his family.

Today BSF Jawan Purnam Kumar Shaw, who had been in the custody of Pakistan Rangers since 23 April 2025, was handed over to India: BSF

Constable Purnam Kumar Shaw had inadvertently crossed over to Pakistan territory, while on operational duty in area of Ferozepur sector on 23rd… pic.twitter.com/PnHB6wl69V

— ANI (@ANI) May 14, 2025

How Did Purnam Shaw End Up in Pakistan? – Purnam Shaw Returns

Shaw, a 40-year-old BSF constable from Hooghly, West Bengal, was on duty near the Ferozepur sector in Punjab when he inadvertently crossed into Pakistani territory during a routine patrol. The incident occurred just a day after the Pahalgam terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir, which had escalated tensions between the two nations.

Dressed in his uniform and carrying his service rifle, Shaw was immediately taken into custody by the Pakistan Rangers. The BSF promptly initiated communication with their Pakistani counterparts, but the process was delayed due to heightened border hostilities following the terror attack.

Diplomatic Efforts Secure Shaw’s Safe Return

The BSF and Indian authorities engaged in persistent diplomatic efforts, including flag meetings and backchannel communications, to ensure Shaw’s release. Finally, after three weeks of negotiations, Pakistan agreed to hand him over at the Attari border crossing.

The BSF issued a statement confirming the peaceful handover:
“Today, BSF jawan Purnam Kumar Shaw, who had been in the custody of Pakistan Rangers since April 23, was handed over to India at around 10:30 AM. The repatriation was conducted as per established protocols.”

Emotional Reunion with Family

Shaw’s family, especially his pregnant wife Rajani and seven-year-old son, had been anxiously awaiting his return. His father, Bhola Nath Shaw, expressed immense relief upon hearing the news. “I couldn’t believe it when I got the call. We are grateful to the BSF and the government for bringing him back safely,” he said.

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, who had earlier appealed for Shaw’s swift return, welcomed the development. She posted on X (formerly Twitter):
“Delighted to hear that our brave BSF jawan Purnam Kumar Shaw has been safely repatriated. I spoke with his family multiple times and am relieved they can now reunite.”

Why Was Shaw’s Repatriation Delayed?

Sources indicate that Pakistan’s reluctance to engage in flag meetings post the Pahalgam attack slowed down the process. However, consistent pressure from Indian authorities and international norms regarding the treatment of accidental border crossers eventually facilitated Shaw’s release.

A Happy Ending Amid Strained Relations

While India-Pakistan relations remain tense, Shaw’s return demonstrates that established protocols can still prevail in such situations. The incident also highlights the risks faced by border security personnel who operate in high-tension zones.

As Shaw reunites with his loved ones, his safe return serves as a reminder of the importance of diplomacy and persistence in resolving cross-border issues.

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