May 14, 2025: In a heartening development, BSF jawan Purnam Kumar Shaw, who was detained by Pakistan Rangers after inadvertently crossing the international border on April 23, returned to India on Wednesday morning, officials confirmed.
The jawan was handed over to Indian authorities at the Attari-Wagah border at approximately 10:30 AM, bringing immense relief to his family and fellow soldiers. His return comes shortly after a diplomatic thaw between India and Pakistan, with both nations agreeing to a ceasefire understanding on May 10, following heightened tensions triggered by India’s Operation Sindoor.
Shaw’s inadvertent crossing had created anxiety for his family and the Border Security Force (BSF), especially after early talks between Indian and Pakistani forces failed to yield immediate results. Pakistan reportedly told Indian officials they were “awaiting directions from higher-ups” during multiple rounds of communication.
Following the ceasefire understanding, Shaw was released and was seen walking freely across the Joint Check Post in Attari, located in Amritsar, Punjab.
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Family Celebrations and Gratitude
Celebrations erupted in Shaw’s hometown upon hearing the news of his safe return. His father, Bholanath Shaw, expressed heartfelt gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee.
“I want to thank the Prime Minister, all Ministers, and also the Chief Minister of Bengal, Mamata Banerjee. We are happy that he is back in India. We want to see him first. I want him to work for the country only. He will again go back to protect our country,” he said.
Shaw’s wife, Rajni, had previously traveled to Ferozepur, where he was posted, and met with senior BSF officials, who assured her of their efforts to secure his safe return.
The jawan’s release marks a rare positive outcome amid persistent border tensions and serves as a reminder of the importance of dialogue and diplomacy even during strained bilateral relations.