The BSF constable was detained by Pakistani forces hours after a terror attack in Pahalgam, Kashmir.
The family of Border Security Force (BSF) jawan Purnam Kumar Sahu, who was apprehended by Pakistani forces from the international border in Punjab on April 23, expressed hope on Monday (May 5, 2025) for a possible swap following the BSF’s detention of a Pakistani Ranger in Rajasthan.
“Now [the detained Pakistan Ranger’s family] will also understand what condition our family has been in for the last 11 to 12 days. That family must also be in the same state. Hopefully, they can pressure their government to pursue his release and agree to return my husband in a swap,” Rajni Sahu, the BSF jawan’s wife, told local mediapersons on Monday (May 5, 2025).
Ms. Sahu added that the family, which had been anxious about Mr. Sahu’s condition, now feels there is a chance for his repatriation to India following the recent development. The family is based in Rishra in West Bengal’s Hooghly district.
The BSF constable was detained by Pakistani forces on April 23 after he reportedly crossed into Pakistani territory and fell asleep near the international border in Punjab’s Ferozepur district. This occurred hours after a terror attack in Pahalgam, Kashmir.
Days later, on May 3, a Pakistani Ranger was apprehended by the BSF along the India-Pakistan border in Rajasthan.
Bholanath Sahu, the BSF jawan’s father, said he trusted the Prime Minister, Union Home Minister, and Union Defence Minister to take the appropriate course of action following the May 3 development.
On Monday, West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee stated that her government was also praying for Mr. Sahu’s prompt return. “This is a very unfortunate incident. Trinamool [Congress] MP Kalyan Banerjee is in contact with Mr. Sahu’s family. Our government is also in touch with them. We hope Mr. Sahu can be brought back as soon as possible,” Ms. Banerjee said.
On April 28, Ms. Sahu, who is pregnant, had travelled to the BSF camp in Pathankot, Punjab, with relatives to meet senior officials and discuss the options for her husband’s return.
Upon her return, she told the local press that BSF officials had assured her of some development within the following week. “The terror attack at Pahalgam has reportedly complicated the matter. However, I have been assured of some news within a week. I had also visited the Ferozepur camp, where senior officials said we should keep faith. They said the matter is being pursued by the [Border Security] Force as well as at the Ministry level, and that maximum effort is being made to ensure his immediate return,” Ms. Sahu had said after returning from her trip.
Published – May 05, 2025 10:51 pm IST