The All India Trinamool Congress (AITC) on Wednesday extended warm wishes to BSF Constable Purnam Kumar Shaw, who was repatriated to India after being in the custody of Pakistani Rangers since April 23, following an inadvertent border crossing.
Shaw was handed over by Pakistan at the Attari-Wagah border at 10:30 am, bringing relief to his family and the wider community. In a statement, the AITC said: “Home at last. After days of anxiety and uncertainty, BSF Jawan Purnam Kumar Shaw has finally been repatriated. Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee personally reached out to his wife multiple times, offering reassurance and support during the ordeal. We wish Purnam a full recovery from the trauma he endured and hope he finds peace in the embrace of his loved ones.”
The Border Security Force (BSF) confirmed the successful repatriation, crediting the outcome to regular flag meetings and sustained communication with Pakistani Rangers.
“Constable Shaw had inadvertently crossed into Pakistani territory during operational duty in the Ferozepur sector on April 23 around 11:50 am and was detained by Pakistan Rangers. Persistent diplomatic and military engagement made his return possible,” the BSF said in its official statement.
Earlier this month, West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee had expressed concern for Shaw, who hails from Hooghly, and affirmed that Trinamool Congress MP Kalyan Banerjee was in touch with his family.
“This is an extremely sad situation… We want him rescued as soon as possible. Our party stands with the government on issues of internal and external security. This is not the time for political division,” Mamata Banerjee had stated.
Shaw’s unintentional crossing into Pakistan during routine patrol highlights the sensitivity and risks associated with guarding the volatile India-Pakistan border, prompting the BSF to issue renewed advisories for heightened vigilance during operations.
His safe return marks a rare moment of cooperation amid ongoing tensions between the two countries.
