Kolkata, May 14 – West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Wednesday expressed her relief and joy following the safe return of Border Security Force (BSF) Constable Purnam Kumar Shaw, who was repatriated from Pakistan after inadvertently crossing the border during duty.
Taking to the social media platform X, Banerjee shared that she had remained in close contact with Shaw’s family throughout the tense period, including multiple conversations with his wife, Rajni Shaw, in Rishra, Hooghly.
“I am happy to receive the information that our Purnam Kumar Shaw, the BSF jawan, has been released. I had all along been in touch with his family and spoke thrice with his wife here at Rishra, Hooghly. Today also I called her. All the very best wishes for my brother-like jawan, his entire family including his wife Rajni Shaw,” Banerjee posted.
Shaw was detained by Pakistan Rangers after accidentally crossing the international border on April 23 while on operational duty in the Ferozepur sector. His return was made possible through continued diplomatic efforts and regular flag meetings between Indian and Pakistani border forces.
According to a statement from the Border Security Force (BSF):
“Today at 1030 hrs, Constable Purnam Kumar Shaw has been taken back from Pakistan by BSF at Attari-Wagah border. He had inadvertently crossed over into Pakistani territory while on duty on April 23 around 1150 hrs and was detained. Consistent efforts through communication channels and flag meetings ensured his safe return.”
The All India Trinamool Congress (AITC) also issued a statement acknowledging Shaw’s return and highlighting Banerjee’s personal involvement.
“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 party said.
The repatriation has brought immense relief to Shaw’s family and sparked emotional reactions across the state. His return underscores the importance of continued diplomatic and humanitarian communication between the two neighbouring countries.