New Delhi, May 14 – Border Security Force (BSF) Constable Purnam Kumar Shaw, who inadvertently crossed the international border into Pakistan while on duty in Punjab’s Ferozepur sector on April 23, has been successfully repatriated to India. His return marks a rare positive development following a mutual understanding between India and Pakistan on the cessation of hostilities.
Shaw was handed over to Indian authorities by the Pakistan Rangers at the Attari-Wagah border at 10:30 am today. His return comes after consistent efforts by the BSF, which included regular flag meetings and other communication channels with their Pakistani counterparts.
In a statement, the BSF’s Public Relations Officer (Punjab Frontier) confirmed the incident and commended the coordination that led to Shaw’s safe return. “With the consistent efforts of BSF through regular flag meetings with Pakistan Rangers and through other communication channels, the repatriation has become possible,” the statement said.
The repatriation sparked an outpouring of relief and emotion at Shaw’s home. His father, Bhola Shaw, expressed immense gratitude to both central and state governments. “On the 24th day, the government brought my son back from Pakistan. I want him to continue serving and protecting the country,” he said, also thanking Prime Minister Narendra Modi and praising what he called “Operation Sindoor.”
Shaw’s wife, Rajni Shaw, shared her emotional reaction after speaking to her husband via video call for the first time in over three weeks. “I couldn’t recognize him at first—his beard had grown. But he looked fit and sounded well,” she said. She also expressed gratitude to both PM Modi and West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee for their roles in ensuring his return.
The political response to Shaw’s repatriation was swift. Uttar Pradesh Congress President Ajai Rai welcomed the move, saying, “He endured a lot during this time. I extend my good wishes to him.” Congress leader Sandeep Dikshit added, “This shows that the ceasefire is having some effect on the ground, although Pakistan’s record remains inconsistent.”
BJP MP Tarun Chugh credited the leadership of PM Modi, saying, “This shows India’s strength and the Prime Minister’s resolve. Like with Wing Commander Abhinandan, we once again demonstrated that every Indian soldier is precious.”
The incident underscores the fragile but functional ceasefire understanding between India and Pakistan, and the importance of ongoing diplomatic and military communication in maintaining peace along the border.