Border Security Force (BSF) jawan Purnam Kumar Shaw, who had been detained by Pakistan Rangers for 21 days after inadvertently crossing the international border in Punjab’s Ferozepur district on April 23, was formally handed over to Indian authorities at the Attari Joint Check Post on May 14, 2025.
The repatriation was carried out smoothly, adhering to established protocols, and was confirmed by both Indian and Pakistani officials. Shaw’s family, who endured three weeks of anxiety and uncertainty, expressed immense relief at his safe return.
The incident, which had drawn attention from both state and central authorities, highlights the importance of dialogue and protocol in managing cross-border incidents.
A Safe and Dignified Repatriation at Attari
The handover took place at around 10:30 am at the Attari border, with representatives from both BSF and Pakistan Rangers present. According to BSF spokespersons, the process was conducted in a “cordial and professional manner,” reflecting a rare moment of cooperation between the two forces.
Shaw, who is 40 years old and hails from West Bengal, appeared physically unharmed and was immediately taken for a medical check-up upon his return. His wife, Rajni, who is currently pregnant, spoke to the media with visible relief: “We are grateful to the authorities for bringing him back safely.
The past 21 days have been very difficult for our family, but we never lost hope.” Senior BSF officials also commended the timely intervention by diplomatic channels and reassured the public that all standard procedures were followed to secure Shaw’s release.
Background: Accidental Crossing Amid Heightened Tensions
Shaw’s detention came at a particularly sensitive time, just a day after a terror attack in Pahalgam, Kashmir, which resulted in the deaths of 26 people and led to increased security along the Indo-Pak border. According to official reports, Shaw inadvertently crossed into Pakistani territory on April 23 while performing routine duties near the border fence in Ferozepur.
Pakistan Rangers detained him and notified Indian authorities as per established communication protocols. During his 21-day detention, Shaw’s family received support from West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, who publicly urged the central government to ensure his safe return and kept in regular contact with the family.
The incident underscores the persistent risks faced by security personnel along the border and the critical role of diplomatic engagement in resolving such situations.
The Logical Indian’s Perspective
The safe return of Purnam Kumar Shaw after 21 days in detention is a heartening reminder that even amidst political and military tensions, humanity and dialogue can prevail. The swift and protocol-driven resolution of this incident stands as an example of how both nations can prioritise human life and dignity, even when relations are strained.
The Logical Indian believes that such moments should inspire further efforts towards peace, mutual understanding, and the prevention of similar incidents in the future. As we celebrate Shaw’s homecoming, we invite our readers to reflect: What more can be done to ensure the safety of border personnel and to foster a spirit of cooperation between India and Pakistan?
