West Bengal Celebrates Return of BSF Jawan Released by Pakistan After 21 Days in Custody
Rishra (West Bengal), May 14 – Jubilation swept through the town of Rishra in West Bengal’s Hooghly district on Wednesday after news broke that Border Security Force (BSF) constable Purnam Kumar Shaw had been released by Pakistani authorities after being in custody for 21 days.
According to agency report, the BSF confirmed that Shaw was handed over at the Attari-Wagah border around 10:30 a.m., leading to an outpouring of emotion and celebration at his hometown. Residents gathered outside his house, distributing sweets and offering prayers, while his family members were seen shedding tears of relief and joy.
Shaw had inadvertently crossed into Pakistani territory on April 23 while on operational duty in the Firozpur sector, just a day after the Pahalgam terrorist attack. He was subsequently detained by Pakistan Rangers, and his disappearance had caused increasing concern among his family and community, especially as tensions escalated between the two countries.
His pregnant wife Rajni had personally travelled to Pathankot and Firozpur to appeal for his release. She expressed gratitude to citizens and political leaders who supported her during the difficult period, acknowledging the consistent reassurance she received from local councillors, Members of Parliament, and West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee.
Rajni said that the collective support from the nation gave her strength during the ordeal, and she extended thanks to everyone who stood by the family. Shaw’s father, Bholanath Shaw, expressed deep relief, saying the family had not slept peacefully for days but could finally breathe easy knowing Purnam was safe and back on Indian soil.
Speaking over the phone, Bholanath shared that they had received word on Tuesday night about the possibility of his son's release and were officially informed by the BSF headquarters on Wednesday morning. While they have not yet spoken directly to him, they were told they would be able to connect with him soon.
He thanked Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, the central government, and BSF officials for their relentless efforts to bring his son home. “Now, all I want is to embrace my son,” he said.
Earlier in the day, Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee also welcomed the constable’s return and reiterated that she had been in regular contact with his family throughout the episode. She praised the efforts made by all parties involved in ensuring Shaw’s safe return from Pakistani custody.
