BSF constable in Pakistan custody: Family worried by rising tension, pin hope on CM

However, the current hostile situation has fueled fears and uncertainty about his fate.

“Two days back, when we received information about the detention of two Pakistani Rangers, it gave us some hope for my husband’s release. But now, I am terrified. It feels like a war situation. I see no positivity. This situation is not going to end ; it will continue,” said Purnam’s wife, Rajani Shaw.

Rajani had visited Pathankot and Ferozepur to personally appeal to BSF commanders for her husband’s safe return. She returned home reassured by senior BSF officials that they were making every effort to bring him back safely. The BSF had also urged the family to be patient, assuring them that such incidents are not uncommon.

Rajani now wants to meet Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee and seek help in securing her husband’s safe return.

“Everyone is saying there is little chance. No one is bothered about my husband. I last spoke to them (BSF) on Monday. They have my number, but I haven’t received any call in the last 24 hours. We would like to meet the Chief Minister because we don’t know, maybe she can assure some help or speak to the government. The main issue is that my husband is not in India. I had hope when dialogues were ongoing, but now, in this hostile situation, I am extremely worried,” she said.

“Pahalgam was extremely unfortunate, and naturally, everyone was expecting the government to take revenge. If my husband wasn’t stuck, I would have said the same. But now, the main problem is that my husband is in Pakistan. I don’t know what I should say and what I should not,” Rajani further added.

During her visit to the border regions, Rajani said she was informed that her husband was safe and had not been subjected to torture. She was also told that flag meetings were being conducted regarding the matter. “I have been told that if he does not return in a week, I will be taken to Delhi to speak with the IG of BSF there,” Rajani said.  “Our last hope is God, we are praying day and night for his safe return,” she added.

Purnam’s father, Bholanath Shaw, emphasised the central government’s responsibility in ensuring his son’s safe return. “We are extremely anxious and worried about his safety,” he said, adding, “Not watching TV or news, I only want my son to return safe.”