Purnam Kumar Shaw’s Inadvertent Crossing, Family Appeals, and Handover at Attari-Wagah Border Explained
BSF Constable Purnam Kumar Shaw, aged 40, belonging to the 182nd Battalion and hailing from Rishra in Hooghly district, West Bengal, inadvertently crossed into Pakistan on April 23, 2025, while on operational duty in the Ferozepur sector of Punjab. He was reportedly escorting farmers who were cultivating fields beyond the border fence—an activity often supervised by the BSF.
Wearing full uniform and carrying his service rifle, Shaw unintentionally entered Pakistani territory and was immediately detained by Pakistan Rangers. This occurred just a day after a major terror attack in Pahalgam, Kashmir, which had caused high alert and increased tensions between India and Pakistan, potentially complicating early release efforts.
Detention, Family Appeals, and Diplomatic Efforts
During his 21-day detention, Shaw’s family, particularly his pregnant wife Rajani Shaw, made emotional appeals for his return. Her concern prompted intervention from West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, who assured her that consistent efforts for repatriation were underway.
The Indian government, backed by political leaders like TMC MP Kalyan Banerjee, sought diplomatic and military channels to resolve the issue. The situation was further complicated by speculation about a possible swap, as a Pakistani Ranger had been detained by the BSF in Rajasthan on May 3. However, after a ceasefire understanding between India and Pakistan in early May, both nations engaged in backchannel talks, leading to the scheduling of the handover.
Handover at Attari-Wagah Border and Aftermath
Today BSF Jawan Purnam Kumar Shaw, who had been in the custody of Pakistan Rangers since 23 April 2025, was handed over to India: BSF
— ANI (@ANI) May 14, 2025
(Pic Source: BSF) pic.twitter.com/TVzagO0AhK
On the morning of May 14, 2025, at around 10:30 AM, Purnam Kumar Shaw was handed over to Indian authorities by the Pakistan Rangers at the Joint Check Post (JCP) at Attari-Wagah border. The process was conducted peacefully and in line with established cross-border protocols, marking the end of the 21-day ordeal.
Following his return, Shaw was taken for routine medical checks and debriefing by the BSF. Officials confirmed he was not treated as a prisoner of war and emphasized that all procedures regarding his physical and psychological well-being were followed. Authorities will now assess whether he is fit to return to active duty. This repatriation is being viewed as a diplomatic success, reflecting that even amid rising geopolitical tensions, established military and diplomatic mechanisms can help de-escalate sensitive situations and secure the safe return of personnel.
