BSF jawan returns to India after being detained by Pakistan Rangers

BSF constable Purnam Kumar Shaw returns to India after 3 weeks in Pakistani custody, reunited with family at border.

Border Security Force (BSF) constable Purnam Kumar Shaw (also spelt as ‘Sahu’) returned to India today after being held in Pakistani custody for three weeks. Mr. Sahu was officially handed over to Indian authorities at 10.30 a.m. at the Attari-Wagah border on Wednesday (May 14, 2025).

The jawan had inadvertently crossed into Pakistani territory on April 23 around 11:50 a.m. while on operational duty in the Ferozepur sector and was subsequently detained by Pakistan Rangers.

The BSF credited “consistent efforts through regular flag meetings with Pakistan Rangers and through other communication channels” for successfully securing the constable’s repatriation.

The jawan from the 182nd battalion had been accompanying farmers who were cultivating land just beyond the border fence near Ferozepur, Punjab, a standard practice where BSF personnel escort local farmers who have permission to work their fields in this sensitive area. According to reports, Mr. Sahu moved into the shade to rest while in uniform and carrying his service rifle when Pakistan Rangers apprehended him.

His return comes 11 days after BSF personnel detained a Pakistani Ranger along the India-Pakistan border in Rajasthan on May 3. The family had expressed hope earlier this week for a possible swap following this development.

During Mr. Sahu’s detention, his wife Rajni Sahu had actively sought intervention from West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee to help secure her husband’s release. The constable hails from Rishra in West Bengal. Ms. Sahu had also traveled to Ferozepur to meet with senior BSF officials regarding her husband’s situation.