In a significant diplomatic and security achievement for India, Pakistan Rangers on Wednesday released Border Security Force (BSF) jawan Purnam Shaw, who had been in their custody for almost three weeks.
Shaw had inadvertently crossed the international border in Punjab's Ferozepur district while on duty just a day after the horrific terror attack in Pahalgam on April 22, in which 26 civilians were killed.
Congruent with the development, BSF released a formal statement over the jawan's return.
"Constable Purnam Kumar Shaw has been brought back from Pakistan by BSF at Attari-Wagha border today at 1030 hrs," it stated.
It also elaborated on how he was caught: "Constable Purnam Kumar Shaw had inadvertently entered Pakistan side, while on operational duty in the Ferozepur sector area on 23rd April 2025 at 1150 hrs and was taken into custody by Pak Rangers."
The exchange was conducted in accordance with standard procedures between the two countries. Upon his return, normal procedures, including thorough medical checks, will be undertaken to ascertain whether Shaw suffered any type of mistreatment or torture while in detention.
This move comes almost immediately after India and Pakistan reached a common understanding on May 10 to stop further military action, following an acute build-up triggered by India's guided strikes under 'Operation Sindoor' on May 7. The operation hit key terror hotspots and strategic facilities in Pakistan as well as Pakistan-occupied Kashmir.
Before Shaw's release, his wife, Rajni, had visited Ferozepur to meet the top BSF officials and urge them to use their good offices in facilitating his early return. She was assured that all possible steps were being taken to ensure his safe return home.
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