Amid a fragile yet welcome ceasefire between India and Pakistan, BSF constable Purnam Kumar Shaw, who was held in Pakistan for nearly three weeks, has finally returned home, bringing immense relief and joy to his family in West Bengal.

Shaw, who was taken into custody by Pakistan Rangers on April 23 after inadvertently crossing the international border in Punjab’s Ferozepur district, was repatriated through the Attari-Wagah border on Wednesday evening.

According to an official statement issued by the Border Security Force (BSF), Constable Shaw had crossed into Pakistani territory around 11:50 am during operational duty and was detained.

His release was facilitated through a series of flag meetings and consistent diplomatic communications. “He was received at 10:30 am on Thursday and is currently undergoing medical examination and debriefing before reuniting with his family,” the BSF confirmed.

Ceasefire Brings Hope and Closure

The news of his release came as a welcome relief for the Shaw family, who had endured weeks of uncertainty following the constable’s disappearance. His return follows shortly after a ceasefire declaration, offering a crucial window for diplomatic negotiations between the two nations.

The ceasefire was announced in the wake of rising border tensions, especially after a terror attack in Pahalgam, Kashmir, just a day before Shaw’s inadvertent border crossing. It marked a turning point, allowing humanitarian issues like Shaw’s case to be fast-tracked.

Diplomatic Push and Political Intervention

The case garnered political attention, with local leaders pressing for his immediate release. Trinamool Congress MP from Serampore, Kalyan Banerjee, made appeals to both the BSF Director General and the Prime Minister’s Office, urging urgent intervention.

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee also intervened, personally calling Shaw’s pregnant wife, Rajani Shaw, to assure her of his safety and the state’s ongoing efforts for his return. “I am extremely thankful to our Chief Minister. Her assurance brought a sense of calm amidst my worst fears,” Rajani said.

A Family’s Ordeal and Joyful Reunion

For Purnam’s father, Bholenath Shaw, the moment of confirmation from BSF Headquarters on Tuesday brought immense relief. “I’m all set to distribute sweets,” he said, brimming with pride and joy. The family had faced days of anxiety, fearing for Purnam’s safety in a tense geopolitical atmosphere.

“I had lost all hope,” admitted Rajani, speaking about her emotional turmoil during the weeks of uncertainty. The ceasefire news had rekindled her faith, and the official confirmation of his release brought it full circle.

Leaders Across the Political Spectrum React

Political reactions poured in as the news broke. BJP’s West Bengal president Sukanta Majumdar posted on X, thanking Prime Minister Narendra Modi for ensuring no Indian is left behind. “This is not just a moment of relief—it’s a victory of India’s resolve, diplomacy, and pride,” he wrote.

The All India Trinamool Congress also acknowledged the efforts of the state leadership, tweeting, “Home at last. After days of anxiety and uncertainty, BSF jawan Purnam Kumar Shaw has finally been repatriated. CM Mamata Banerjee personally reached out to his wife multiple times, offering reassurance during the ordeal.”

The successful repatriation of Purnam Shaw stands as a testament to the power of diplomacy, the impact of political will, and the resilience of families who serve the nation. As tensions simmer on the borders, this episode offers a rare glimpse of hope and human triumph amid geopolitical strife.