BSF Jawan PK Shaw Handed Over to India After Accidental Pakistan Crossing

BSF Jawan PK Shaw Handed Over to India — this headline has brought a wave of relief and patriotism across the country. In a time of heightened tensions between India and Pakistan, a tale of accidental misstep turned into an international concern. And now, it has ended on a hopeful note.

BSF Constable Purnam Kumar Shaw, popularly known as PK Shaw, who had unknowingly crossed into Pakistani territory on April 23, 2025, was finally returned to India. The handover took place at around 10:30 AM at the Joint Check Post in Attari, Amritsar, conducted peacefully in accordance with established border protocols.

“Today BSF Jawan Purnam Kumar Shaw, who had been in the custody of Pakistan Rangers since 23 April 2025, was handed over to India at about 1030 hours through the Joint Check Post Attari, Amritsar. The handover was conducted peacefully and in accordance with established protocols,” the Border Security Force (BSF) confirmed in a statement.

How It Happened: A Simple Act Turned Diplomatic

• On April 23, while performing routine duties near Ferozepur in Punjab, Shaw accidentally strayed across the international border.
• He was in full uniform and carrying his service rifle at the time.
• Reports say he moved towards a shaded area to rest and unknowingly ended up crossing into Pakistani territory.
• The Pakistan Rangers detained him and kept him in custody for nearly three weeks.

The situation gained further tension as this incident happened just a day after the horrific Pahalgam terror attack that claimed 26 innocent lives. Following this, India launched Operation Sindoor on May 7, targeting terrorist bases in Pakistan and PoK.

Operation Sindoor and the Ceasefire Agreement

India responded with strength and precision to the attack, destroying nine terrorist camps across the border. This operation led to a rapid escalation between the two nations. However, by May 10, both countries agreed to a ceasefire, paving the way for diplomatic progress — including Shaw’s safe return.

Family’s Ordeal: A Pregnant Wife’s Cry for Help

While Shaw was detained, his family back in Bengal lived through a storm of worry and uncertainty.

• His pregnant wife, Rajni, traveled to Ferozepur seeking answers.
• She met with senior BSF officials and was assured of full support.
• West Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee also personally promised help.
• In a heartfelt plea, Rajni said, “I wanted to seek time with the CM and would urge her to help me. I want our CM to request Prime Minister Narendra Modi for my husband’s return.”

The emotional burden was visible as Rajni said she could no longer bear the mental strain and uncertainty.

Political and Security Context

Shaw’s accidental crossing came at a time of volatile relations between India and Pakistan. After Operation Sindoor, Pakistan retaliated with attacks on Indian civilians and military bases, which India swiftly countered.

Amid this intense backdrop, a significant security operation on May 13 neutralized three terrorists, including LeT proxy TRF commander Shahid Kuttay, who was believed to be the mastermind behind the Pahalgam massacre. The encounter took place in the Shukroo Keller area of Shopian district, Jammu and Kashmir.

A Peaceful Return

Shaw’s repatriation through the Wagah-Attari border was a moment of calm amidst the storm.

His return marks:

• A successful diplomatic dialogue in a time of military strain.
• A symbol of hope for families affected by border conflicts.
• A reminder of the real human lives behind these headlines.

As of now, Shaw is being debriefed by Indian security officials to understand the details of his detention and ensure all protocols were followed.

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