An outpouring of relief and emotion marked the homecoming of BSF Constable Purnam Kumar Shaw, who was repatriated by Pakistan on Wednesday, 22 days after he inadvertently crossed the border during duty and was detained by the Pakistan Rangers.
At his residence in West Bengal, Shaw’s family expressed immense gratitude to both the central and state governments, especially Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, for their efforts in securing his return.
His father, Bhola Shaw, said, “On the 24th day, the government brought my son back from Pakistan. I thank all who made this possible. Now that he is back, I want him to continue protecting his country. I also appreciate PM Modi for launching Operation Sindoor.”
Shaw’s wife, Rajni Shaw, described the emotional moment when she saw her husband via video call for the first time in nearly three weeks. “I couldn’t recognise him at first—he had grown a beard. But I felt relieved to see he was doing fine. The Commanding Officer had called me in the morning to inform me of his return and assured me not to worry,” she said, adding that she expects another call from him soon.
Rajni also thanked CM Mamata Banerjee for her direct involvement, saying, “I spoke to the CM a few days ago. She promised me my husband would return this week, and she kept her word. I also thank the entire nation for standing with us.”
Shaw’s repatriation came against the backdrop of Operation Sindoor, a major retaliatory military operation launched by India following the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack, which killed 26 people. Shaw, while on operational duty in Punjab’s Ferozepur sector, inadvertently crossed the International Border around 11:50 am on April 23 and was detained by Pakistani forces.
According to the BSF’s official statement, Shaw was handed back to India at 10:30 am on May 14 at the Attari-Wagah border, following consistent efforts and regular flag meetings with Pakistani counterparts.
Earlier, CM Mamata Banerjee had raised concerns about Shaw’s detention, with senior Trinamool Congress leader Kalyan Banerjee remaining in contact with the family throughout the ordeal.
Constable Shaw’s safe return has been hailed as a diplomatic and humanitarian success, resonating deeply with citizens and symbolising the nation’s commitment to bringing every soldier home.