Saturday, March 29, 2025
BSF constable Purnam Kumar Shah has been in Pakistani custody for several days now after reportedly crossing the border unintentionally. His wife, Rajni Shah, who is pregnant, recently traveled from Rishra in West Bengal to Pathankot, Punjab, seeking updates and assurance about her husband’s safety and return.
Upon reaching Punjab, Rajni met with the commanding officer of the Border Security Force in Firozpur. She was given assurance that BSF has already taken up the matter with the Pakistan Rangers and that efforts are underway to ensure her husband’s safe return. Following this meeting, she returned to Kolkata via Amritsar along with her son, sisters, and sister-in-law.
Speaking to the Times of India before leaving, Rajni said, “I was assured by the commanding officer that talks are ongoing with the Pakistan Rangers and there’s a possibility of a positive outcome. I have been told that my husband is safe and could return soon.”
Purnam Kumar Shah was reportedly detained by Pakistan Rangers last Wednesday after inadvertently crossing the international border in the Firozpur sector. His family has been under immense stress since his disappearance and subsequent custody was confirmed.
Rajni first reached Pathankot and later visited Firozpur to gather more clarity regarding her husband’s release. However, officials informed her that her presence might not influence the proceedings and reassured her that BSF is treating the matter with utmost seriousness.
Hope for Positive News in Coming Days
According to BSF officials, there may be a breakthrough in the coming days, and Shah could be handed back soon. However, Rajni was distressed earlier when a proposed flag meeting between Indian and Pakistani forces was canceled.
The BSF also arranged Rajni and her family’s travel from Firozpur to Amritsar, from where they flew back to Kolkata on an Indigo flight. The hope for Shah’s release remains alive, with his family and the entire nation praying for his safe return.
Why is Pakistan Delaying His Return?
Sources suggest that in previous cases of unintentional border crossings, such matters were resolved quickly. However, this time, Pakistan seems to be maintaining “uncertainty” over Shah’s location and date of return. Tensions following the recent Pahalgam attack might be influencing Pakistan’s reluctance.
BSF has launched an internal probe into the incident. Shah, a constable in the 24th battalion, was captured on April 23. Officials stated that a protest note has been sent to the Pakistan Rangers, but no details regarding Shah’s whereabouts or release timeline have been received yet.
Despite around 4-5 flag meetings between the two sides, a final decision on Shah’s repatriation remains pending.
