Troop Exchange Between India and Pakistan at the Border

ছবিঃ সংগৃহীত

Despite diplomatic tensions, India and Pakistan on Wednesday took a positive step by mutually handing over each other’s border security personnel at the border. The incident is being seen as a rare gesture of goodwill between the two countries.

The news was reported by The Express Tribune in a report published on Thursday (May 15).

Constable Purnam Kumar of the Indian Border Security Force (BSF), who had unintentionally crossed into Pakistan's Ganda Singh Wala/Firozpur sector on April 23 and was detained by the Pakistan Rangers, was returned by the Pakistani government.

On the other hand, Indian BSF officials handed over Mohammadullah, a member of the Pakistan Rangers, to Pakistani authorities. He had similarly crossed the border into Indian territory and was apprehended.

International Desk: After multiple "flag meetings" between the border forces of both sides, a decision was reached, and this morning, representatives from the two countries formally handed over the respective members to each other's custody at the border.

The Indian Border Security Force stated in a release that Constable Purnam Kumar was safely returned by the Pakistan Rangers. We welcome this move and view it as a positive message.

According to analysts, such exchanges during times of diplomatic tension can play a helpful role in building mutual trust. It is worth noting that due to recent border clashes and escalating tensions, movement along the India-Pakistan border has been almost halted, and bilateral relations have declined to a minimal level.

This soldier exchange event is considered a rare and constructive progress in that complex context.