Saturday, March 29, 2025
Kolkata, May 16, 2025 – After spending 21 harrowing days in Pakistani custody, BSF jawan Purnam Kumar Shaa was finally released and returned to India via the Attari-Wagah border on Wednesday evening. Speaking to his wife Rajni Shaa over the phone after his return, the soldier described his painful experience of captivity, alleging mental torture and constant interrogation during his time in Pakistan.
Purnam Kumar, who mistakenly crossed into Pakistani territory on April 23 while on duty in Punjab’s Ferozepur sector, told his wife that he was treated like a spy and not allowed to sleep at night. “They kept interrogating me continuously,” he said, detailing how sleep deprivation was used to mentally break him down. Though he was not physically tortured, he suffered significant psychological stress.
Rajni Shaa revealed that her husband was shifted between three different locations during his captivity. “One of the locations seemed to be near an airbase because he could hear the constant sound of aircraft,” she told Times of India. She also mentioned that her husband wasn’t even allowed to brush his teeth, although food was provided.
Despite these hardships, Purnam expressed resilience and the desire to return to duty. His wife said his voice reflected exhaustion, yet he remained determined.
The incident occurred just a day after a terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Kashmir, raising initial suspicions in Pakistan. Following Purnam’s detention, India launched diplomatic efforts, applying pressure through official channels for his safe return. Eventually, these efforts led to his release on humanitarian grounds.
Rajni Shaa expressed pride in her husband’s service, stating, “He has served the nation for 17 years and will continue to do so. We are all proud of him.” She is also considering traveling to Pathankot herself if her husband is not granted leave soon.
After his return on Wednesday evening, the soldier underwent medical examination and debriefing by Indian authorities.
