BSF Constable Returns Home
After nearly three agonizing weeks in Pakistani custody, BSF Constable Purnam Kumar Shaw finally returned to Indian soil on Wednesday, crossing back through the Wagah-Attari border into an emotional homecoming. The 40-year-old Bengal native had been detained by Pakistani Rangers on April 23 after reportedly straying across the international border near Ferozepur district, Punjab.
BSF Constable Returns Home
His capture came at a volatile moment just a day after the horrific Pahalgam terrorist attack in Jammu and Kashmir that left 26 dead, including civilians and security personnel. As India reeled from the tragedy, tensions with Pakistan soared, culminating in “Operation Sindoor,” a swift retaliatory mission that dismantled nine terror launchpads across Pakistan and PoK.
BSF Constable Returns Home
Shaw’s family, particularly his pregnant wife Rajni, endured weeks of uncertainty and emotional distress. Despite repeated pleas and reassurances from senior BSF officials, the silence on his fate stretched on until a fragile ceasefire agreement was finally brokered on May 9. This diplomatic thaw paved the way for Shaw’s safe return.
BSF Constable Returns Home
“I was patient all these days, but the fear was overwhelming,” Rajni told The Economic Times. “I even wanted to meet Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee to request her to appeal to Prime Minister Modi for my husband’s return.”
The West Bengal CM had earlier reached out to assure Shaw’s family of full support. In a heartening display of solidarity, Rajni traveled to Ferozepur, braving her condition to seek answers and assistance for her husband’s safe repatriation.
BSF Constable Returns Home
Back in Jammu and Kashmir, security forces continued their crackdown on terror outfits. Just a day before Shaw’s return, three militants were neutralized in an encounter in Shopian district including Shahid Kuttay, a TRF commander believed to be the mastermind behind the Pahalgam attack. The gunfight in the Shukroo Keller area dealt another blow to the Lashkar-e-Taiba proxy group.
BSF Constable Returns Home
While the guns have fallen silent for now along the border, the atmosphere remains tense. Shaw’s return, though, brings a sliver of hope and relief to a family and a nation still reeling from a devastating fortnight.
