BSF Jawan Purnam Kumar Shaw Repatriated After 21 Days in Pakistan Custody

Agartala, May 14: Nearly three weeks after he inadvertently crossed into Pakistan during an operation, BSF constable Purnam Kumar Shaw was handed back to Indian authorities at the Attari-Wagah border on Wednesday morning. The young jawan from West Bengal had been in Pakistani custody since April 23, and his return came after consistent diplomatic and military-level efforts between the two countries.

According to a press release issued by the Border Security Force, “Today at 10:30 AM, Constable Purnam Kumar Shaw has been taken back from Pakistan by BSF at Attari – Wagha border.”

The BSF stated that Shaw had “inadvertently crossed over to Pakistan territory, while on operational duty in area of Ferozepur sector on 23rd April 2025 around 11:50 AM and detained by Pak Rangers.”

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The release further added, “With the consistent efforts of BSF through regular flag meetings with Pakistan Rangers and through other communication channels, the repatriation of BSF Constable has become possible.”

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee confirmed the jawan’s return and expressed her relief on social media. “I am happy to receive the information that our Purnam Kumar Shaw, the BSF jawan, has been released,” she posted on X.

She also mentioned her ongoing communication with Shaw’s family. “I had all along been in touch with his family and spoke thrice with his wife here at Rishra, Hugli. Today also I called her. All the very best wishes for my brother-like jawan, his entire family including his wife Rajni Shaw,” she added.