Kolkata (West Bengal) [India], May 14: BSF Constable Purnam Kumar Shaw, who had been in the custody of Pakistan Rangers since April 23 after inadvertently crossing the border in Punjab’s Ferozepur sector, was repatriated on Wednesday at 10:30 am through the Attari-Wagah border.
The All India Trinamool Congress (AITC) issued a statement welcoming Shaw’s return, expressing relief and highlighting the personal involvement of West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee during the episode.
“Home at last. After days of anxiety and uncertainty, BSF Jawan Purnam Kumar Shaw has finally been repatriated. 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,” the AITC said in its statement.
The Border Security Force (BSF) also confirmed Shaw’s safe return, explaining that his repatriation was made possible through persistent diplomatic efforts, including flag meetings and communication channels with the Pakistan Rangers.
“Constable Purnam Kumar Shaw was taken back from Pakistan by BSF at the Attari-Wagah border. He had inadvertently crossed over into Pakistan territory while on operational duty in Ferozepur sector on April 23 around 11:50 am. His return was facilitated through consistent efforts of BSF and coordination with Pakistani authorities,” the BSF noted.
Earlier on May 5, CM Mamata Banerjee had voiced concern over the incident, urging for Shaw’s safe return and emphasizing that national security issues must rise above political divisions.
“This is an extremely sad situation. Our party’s Kalyan Banerjee is in touch with the family members. We want him rescued as soon as possible. On internal and external security, we stand united with the government,” she had stated.
The BSF reiterated its commitment to ensuring the safety of its personnel and issued an advisory to soldiers to remain alert and vigilant during patrols, especially along sensitive stretches of the International Border.