90 Hours And 3 Meetings On, Indian Jawan Still In Pakistan’s Hand

New Delhi: A Border Security Force (BSF) constable, identified as 40-year-old Purnam Kumar Shaw, remains in Pakistan’s custody after inadvertently crossing the International Border near Ferozepur, Punjab on Wednesday. Shaw was accompanying farmers along the Punjab border when he moved ahead to rest in the shade and accidentally crossed into Pakistani territory. Despite several efforts to secure his release, he has been detained for four days.

Shaw, who hails from Hooghly in West Bengal, was in uniform and carrying his service rifle at the time of the incident. Pakistani authorities have yet to release him, claiming they have no further information about his whereabouts. Efforts by Indian officials, including three rounds of flag meetings between the BSF and Pakistan Rangers, have not resulted in his return.

In a statement, Shaw’s wife, Rajani, expressed her anxiety over the ongoing situation. “It has been four days since Pakistani forces captured him. We are in touch with BSF officials. But all they are saying is that meetings are being held. But there is no positive news. I don’t know when my husband will be back.”,” she said. 

Rajani also shared her distress after seeing a photo of Shaw, blindfolded, that was released by Pakistan. “I have decided to visit Pathankot myself and plead with the BSF officers to ensure my husband’s safe return…I will personally appeal to everyone to help in this effort. I will reach out to the Prime Minister and the President to secure his release.” she added.

The BSF has requested another commander-level flag meeting with the Pakistan Rangers, which is expected to be scheduled soon. In the meantime, BSF units along the India-Pakistan border have been placed on high alert as diplomatic efforts continue to secure Shaw’s release.