BSF Jawan’s Ordeal: 21 Days of Blindfolding, Abuse, and Questioning in Pakistani Custody
A Border Security Force (BSF) jawan, Purnam Kumar Shaw, recently returned to India after a harrowing 21-day captivity in Pakistan. He was arrested on April 23rd near the International Border in Punjab after mistakenly crossing into Pakistani territory while on duty.
A Grueling Experience
According to sources, Shaw was subjected to various forms of psychological torture during his detention. He was kept blindfolded, deprived of sleep, and verbally abused by Pakistani authorities. While he wasn’t physically harmed, the constant stress and mistreatment took a toll on his well-being.
Shaw was moved between three undisclosed locations in Pakistan, including one near an airbase. At times, he was held in a jail cell, further emphasizing the gravity of his situation.
Questioned About BSF Deployments
Pakistani officials, dressed in civilian clothes, questioned Shaw extensively about BSF deployments along the border. They sought details about senior officers stationed at the International Border and even pressed him for contact information. However, as per protocol, Shaw didn’t carry a mobile phone and was unable to provide the requested details.
Return to India and Aftermath
After his release, Shaw was allowed to speak with his family and underwent a formal debriefing by BSF officials. He is reported to be in stable physical and mental condition. As per standard procedure, the clothes he wore during his captivity were inspected and discarded.
Shaw’s release comes amidst a fragile ceasefire agreement between India and Pakistan, following three days of armed conflict along the Line of Control (LoC) in early May.
It’s important to note that Shaw’s case highlights the volatile situation along the India-Pakistan border and the risks faced by security personnel on both sides.
