After nearly three harrowing weeks in the custody of Pakistan Rangers, BSF constable Purnam Kumar Shaw has finally returned to Indian soil. The 182nd Battalion jawan had inadvertently crossed the International Border near Ferozepur, Punjab, on April 23 while on operational duty. He was formally handed back to Indian authorities at the Attari-Wagah Joint Check Post this morning.
Shaw was in uniform and armed with his service rifle when he strayed into Pakistani territory.
The exchange took place at approximately 10:30 am and was conducted “peacefully following established protocols,” the BSF confirmed in an official statement. “Today at 1030 hrs, Constable Purnam Kumar Shaw has been taken back from Pakistan by the BSF at the Attari – Wagha border. Constable Purnam Kumar Shaw had inadvertently crossed over to Pakistani territory while on operational duty in the area of Ferozepur sector on 23rd April 2025 around 1150 hrs and was detained by Pak Rangers.”
Reportedly, the son of West Bengal had approached a shaded area to rest and, in doing so, unintentionally crossed the border—where he was promptly apprehended by Pakistani forces.
Efforts to bring him back to India were swift. Flag meetings were convened between Indian security forces and the Pakistan Rangers to negotiate the soldier’s safe return. That diplomacy bore fruit with Shaw’s peaceful repatriation.
Back home, his family’s relief was palpable. His family said the past two weeks had been filled with sleepless nights and uncertainty, and that they had been constantly worried about his well-being.
Political leaders across the spectrum weighed in on Shaw’s return, each underscoring the emotional and symbolic gravity of the moment.
Mamata Banerjee personally reached out to his wife multiple times, offering reassurance and support during the ordeal. We wish Purnam a full recovery from the trauma he endured and hope he finds peace in the embrace of his loved ones.
West Bengal BJP president Sukanta Majumdar offered his gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, posting on X: “A heartfelt thank you to Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri @narendramodi Ji for once again proving that under your strong and decisive leadership, no Indian is ever left behind. Today, the safe return of @BSF_India jawan Shri Purnam Kumar Shaw, who was in Pakistan’s custody since April 23, is not just a moment of relief—it’s a victory of India’s resolve, diplomacy, and national pride. Your relentless commitment to the nation’s security and dignity has ensured justice and honour for our brave soldiers.”
As Shaw undergoes debriefing by security officials, his homecoming stands as a reminder of both the volatility of the border and the unyielding will of a nation that refuses to abandon its own.
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