No Bathroom Breaks, Sleep Deprivation: BSF Jawan’s Horrifying Experience in Pakistani Custody
BSF Jawan Released After 21 Days in Pakistani Custody
Purnam Kumar Shaw, a Border Security Force (BSF) jawan recently released by Pakistan, spent a harrowing three weeks in captivity. Shaw, who inadvertently crossed the international border in Punjab while seeking shade, was arrested by Pakistani Rangers on April 23rd, a day after a terror attack in Pahalgam.
The incident occurred amidst already strained relations between India and Pakistan. Shaw’s return became increasingly challenging due to the escalating tensions and a series of stalled negotiations between the two countries.
A Grueling Ordeal
After 21 days, Shaw was finally released on May 14th, crossing back into India at the Attari-Wagah border. Speaking to his wife, Rajani, Shaw revealed the horrifying details of his captivity. He was reportedly denied basic needs like bathroom breaks and sleep, subjected to intense mental pressure, and interrogated repeatedly about BSF deployments and senior officers.
“He was served food regularly. But they did not allow him to brush his teeth. When he spoke, he sounded extremely tired and said he was sleep-deprived,” Rajani shared with The Times of India.
Shaw explained he was kept blindfolded during transfers and moved to three undisclosed locations, one of which he believes was near an airbase.
Delayed Return Amidst Rising Tensions
According to BSF sources, Shaw could have been returned within a day or two after his inadvertent crossing. However, the Pahalgam terror attack, which claimed 26 lives, significantly escalated tensions, delaying the repatriation talks.
Every attempt by Indian officials to secure Shaw’s release was met with a similar response from Pakistani authorities: “We are waiting for directions from the higher-ups.”
Family’s Anxieties and Relief
Rajani, who is pregnant, traveled to Ferozepur with her son and other family members to meet Shaw’s commanding officer. The family’s anxiety grew as the situation remained uncertain, further complicated by India’s air strikes on terror camps across the border through Operation Sindoor.
Finally, after a 21-day ordeal, Shaw returned to Indian soil. His wife expressed gratitude towards Prime Minister Narendra Modi and West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee for ensuring his safe return.
A Hero’s Welcome
Shaw’s family remains proud of his service and believes he should continue protecting the country. “I want him to work for the country only. He will again go back to protect our country,” his father, Bholanath Shaw, stated.
