Kalyan Banerjee Urges Swift Action for Release of Detained BSF Jawan Amid Ceasefire Tensions

Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, May 12, 2025, Kolkata : Concerns have deepened over the fate of Border Security Force (BSF) jawan Purnam Kumar Shaw, who has remained in Pakistani custody since April 23 after inadvertently crossing the international border in Punjab. A resident of Rishra in West Bengal, Shaw was detained by Pakistan Rangers after allegedly straying across the border and has been held without release, despite diplomatic overtures and appeals.

Multiple efforts by Indian authorities to secure his release have so far failed, and the matter has drawn public and political attention. Trinamool Congress MP from Serampore, Kalyan Banerjee, expressed serious concern over the situation through his official social media handle, urging immediate action from both nations in light of the existing ceasefire. He called on authorities to prioritize the safe return of the jawan, stressing the emotional distress faced by the family.

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee termed the situation as deeply distressing and stated that the state government is actively monitoring developments. She confirmed that MP Kalyan Banerjee has been maintaining regular contact with the jawan's family and reassured that every possible step is being taken to facilitate his return. The jawan’s wife has formally requested a meeting with the Chief Minister, seeking her direct intervention in the matter.

The situation has become more sensitive following a recent incident along the international border in Rajasthan. A Pakistani Ranger was apprehended by the BSF in the Sri Ganganagar sector for allegedly attempting to infiltrate into Indian territory. Security sources reported that the individual was observed crossing into Indian soil under suspicious circumstances. BSF personnel responded swiftly, detaining the man before he could proceed further. Initial assessments indicate that he was unarmed and did not resist arrest.

The detained Pakistani national is currently under interrogation, with intelligence agencies working to verify his identity and possible intent. While officials have refrained from releasing further details due to the ongoing investigation, internal sources suggest the possibility of reconnaissance activity or other hostile motives is being explored seriously.

The arrest has triggered increased security measures along the border, with patrolling and surveillance operations significantly ramped up, particularly during nighttime. Security forces have been placed on high alert, with senior commanders instructed to remain vigilant amid heightened tensions.

This latest incident follows closely on the heels of the April 22 terror attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, which claimed 26 lives, further straining relations between the two countries. Although a formal ceasefire is in place, recent developments have cast uncertainty over its stability, especially as nightfall reportedly saw renewed movements from the Pakistani side.

As the diplomatic silence continues, the family of Purnam Kumar Shaw waits in anxiety, clinging to hope that efforts at the national and state levels will ensure his safe and timely return. The situation remains tense but under close watch.