Pakistani Ranger Detained by BSF Amid Escalating Tensions on Border

www.mangaloretoday.com

Srinagar, May 4, 2025: The Border Security Force (BSF) detained a Pakistani Ranger along the international border in Rajasthan on Saturday, intensifying tensions between India and Pakistan. The detention follows the apprehension of BSF constable Purnam Kumar Sahu by Pakistan Rangers after he inadvertently crossed into Pakistani territory on April 23 while escorting farmers near the Ferozepur sector in Punjab.

The identity of the Pakistani Ranger remains undisclosed and he is currently under the custody of the BSF’s Rajasthan Frontier.

India and Pakistan have traditionally adhered to established protocols for the repatriation of personnel who inadvertently cross the border. However, heightened tensions have complicated the process. Pakistan continues to hold Mr. Sahu, and India has not yet decided the fate of the detained Pakistani Ranger.

Adding to the strained atmosphere, Pakistani forces reportedly engaged in unprovoked small arms fire along the Line of Control (LoC) on the intervening night of May 3-4, marking the tenth consecutive day of ceasefire violations. The firing affected multiple sectors, including Kupwara, Baramulla, Poonch, Rajauri, Mendhar, Naushera, Sunderbani, and Akhnoor. Indian Army units responded proportionally, and no casualties were reported.

BSF constable Sahu, a member of the 182nd battalion deployed in the ’Kisan Guard’ unit, reportedly misjudged the border alignment and stepped into Pakistani territory to rest under a tree. Despite repeated sector-level flag meetings and a formal protest lodged with Pakistan, no progress has been made on securing his release.

The soldier’s wife, Rajani, who is pregnant, travelled from West Bengal’s Hooghly district to Punjab earlier this week to meet senior BSF officers. The family awaits updates on his status as reports suggest he has been moved to a Pakistan Rangers’ facility near the Lahore-Amritsar axis.
Diplomatic and Regional Tensions

The border developments come against the backdrop of rising hostilities. India has accused Pakistan of supporting cross-border terrorism, citing the April 22 terror attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, which claimed 26 lives. A Pakistan-based group allegedly linked to Lashkar-e-Taiba has been blamed for the attack.

In response, India has imposed a series of punitive measures, including the suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty, closure of the Attari-Wagah border, withdrawal of diplomatic personnel, and a ban on imports from Pakistan.

Meanwhile, Pakistan conducted a test launch of its Abdali surface-to-surface ballistic missile on Saturday. Indian officials termed the move a "blatant provocation," further escalating tensions.

The situation along the border remains tense, with both sides on high alert.