KKN Gurugram Desk | In a significant development in Indo-Pak relations, Pakistan on Wednesday, May 14, 2025, released BSF Constable Purnam Kumar Shaw, who had been in the custody of Pakistan Rangers since April 23. The handover took place around 10:30 AM at the Attari-Wagah Joint Check Post in Amritsar, Punjab, in the presence of BSF officials and the soldier’s family.

The BSF confirmed the release through an official statement, and credited diplomatic engagement between New Delhi and Islamabad for resolving the issue. Shaw had reportedly crossed the international border inadvertently during routine patrolling near the Ferozepur sector in Punjab.

Background: How the Soldier Ended Up in Pakistani Custody

According to BSF sources, on April 23, Constable Purnam Kumar Shaw, who hails from Kolkata, West Bengal, was patrolling the India-Pakistan border in the Ferozepur region when he unintentionally crossed into Pakistani territory.

Shortly after, he was apprehended by Pakistan Rangers and detained at an undisclosed location. Indian security forces soon realized the lapse and initiated internal inquiries and cross-border communication to ensure the soldier’s well-being and early repatriation.

BSF’s Official Statement: Peaceful Handover at Attari

In a formal press release, BSF Punjab Frontier Headquarters stated:

“BSF Constable Purnam Kumar Shaw, who was inadvertently apprehended by Pakistan Rangers, has been returned to India today at 10:30 AM through the Attari-Wagah Joint Check Post. The handover took place peacefully and as per established protocol.”

The handover was coordinated between senior officers of the Border Security Force and Pakistan Rangers, under a flag meeting arrangement, commonly used for addressing border incidents and personnel issues.

Family’s Ordeal: Wife’s Pleas and Emotional Return

The return of Constable Shaw brought immense relief to his family, especially his pregnant wife, Rajni Shaw, who had been making continuous appeals at various administrative and political levels for her husband’s safe return.

Rajni had earlier visited the BSF Commanding Officer in Ferozepur and was later reassured by officials about ongoing efforts. She had also returned to Kolkata with their son and extended family after being briefed about the diplomatic negotiations.

Her public appeals and media interviews garnered widespread empathy, highlighting the emotional toll such cross-border incidents have on the families of soldiers.

Diplomatic Intervention: India Pressured Pakistan

Behind the scenes, the Indian government worked through diplomatic backchannels to pressure Pakistan for an early release. High-level communication between the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) and the Pakistan High Commission was initiated immediately after the incident.

A senior MEA official, speaking anonymously, confirmed:

“We invoked bilateral protocols related to border incidents and civilian personnel. Given that the crossing was unintentional, our demand for an immediate and peaceful release was justified and consistent with past precedents.”

West Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee’s Involvement

Adding a political voice to the matter, West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee expressed concern over the soldier’s detention. On May 5, she addressed the issue publicly, acknowledging the mental stress faced by the family and stating that TMC MP Kalyan Banerjee was in touch with the jawan’s relatives.

This political outreach gave the issue national attention, further pressuring central agencies to expedite diplomatic talks.

Pakistan’s Position: Silent but Cooperative

While Pakistan did not release any official statement regarding the capture and release of the BSF soldier, the peaceful and protocol-bound handover indicates a willingness to avoid escalation. Historically, such events have caused bilateral tensions, especially if prolonged.

In this case, analysts believe Pakistan’s cooperation was influenced by India’s swift diplomatic response and regional stability interests.

Protocol for Border Breaches: Standard Operating Procedures

The BSF has standard operating procedures (SOPs) for cross-border incidents:

• Immediate communication with the counterpart (Pakistan Rangers)

• Verification of the soldier’s location and condition

• Request for flag meetings

• Parallel diplomatic outreach by MEA

Following this incident, the BSF has reportedly issued fresh advisories to all border units, reminding personnel to be vigilant and cautious, especially in high-risk zones like Ferozepur, which have limited natural markers demarcating the border.

Security Analysts Weigh In: A Timely Resolution

According to Lt Gen (Retd.) Syed Ata Hasnain, a former GOC of Indian Army’s Northern Command:

“The safe and timely return of the jawan is commendable. It shows the effectiveness of India’s layered diplomatic and military coordination. However, such incidents highlight the need for enhanced surveillance and clearer border demarcation.”

Security experts also emphasized the importance of mental health support for soldiers returning from custody, even if for a short duration, as they might experience psychological stress and interrogation trauma.

Similar Incidents in the Past

This is not the first instance of an Indian soldier being detained after unintentionally crossing the border. Past cases include:

• 2011: BSF soldier returned after 12 days in Pakistan’s custody

• 2016: Indian Army jawan Chandu Chavan was captured and released after 4 months

• 2020: A shepherd from Jammu wandered across and was repatriated after three weeks

Such incidents often prompt both nations to review border patrolling methods, surveillance gaps, and communication frameworks.

Local Reaction in Kolkata and Ferozepur

In Shaw’s native locality in Kolkata, neighbours and relatives celebrated the news with prayers, sweets, and emotional outpourings. Many called for greater government support for the families of serving soldiers.

In Ferozepur, the incident has triggered discussions about increased fencing and signage near sensitive patrol areas to avoid accidental crossings, especially during night shifts or foggy conditions.

What Happens Now: Medical, Debriefing, and Return to Duty

BSF sources confirm that Shaw will undergo:

• Routine medical check-up

• Post-custody debriefing by senior BSF officers

• Psychological evaluation

• Temporary leave to reunite with family

A formal internal report will also be prepared documenting the incident and recommending preventive measures.

The safe return of BSF jawan Purnam Kumar Shaw is a moment of relief and celebration, but it also underlines the complexities of managing one of the world’s most sensitive borders.

India’s successful diplomatic effort shows the strength of protocol-based conflict resolution, even amid tense bilateral ties. Moving forward, stricter adherence to border patrol guidelines, enhanced training, and better inter-agency coordination will be critical.