NEW DELHI – As India and Pakistan observe a fragile ceasefire following days of escalating hostilities sparked by India’s “Operation Sindoor” on May 7, the family of a captured Indian Border Security Force (BSF) soldier remains gripped by fear and uncertainty.
Among the most heart-wrenching voices is that of Rajani Sau, the pregnant wife of 34-year-old Purnam Sau, a BSF trooper captured by Pakistani forces last month. In a desperate appeal to the Indian government, she asked, “Will my sindoor be returned?”
Sindoor—the traditional red vermilion powder applied by married Hindu women—is a powerful symbol of marital status in Indian culture, particularly in rural areas. For Rajani, it has now come to symbolize the absence of her husband and her longing for his safe return.
According to The Wire, Purnam Sau, a member of the BSF’s 24th Battalion stationed in Firozpur, Punjab, was deployed along the India-Pakistan border on April 23. While assisting local farmers in evacuating a high-risk area, he reportedly crossed the international boundary inadvertently. The incident occurred amid heightened tensions following the April 22 terrorist attack in Pahalgam that killed 26 tourists.
Soon after, Pakistani authorities released a photograph showing Purnam blindfolded—confirming his capture.
Back in Rishra, West Bengal, the news shattered his family. His wife, seven months pregnant, collapsed while recounting her ordeal. “My husband has been taken by the Pakistani army. They confirmed it with that photo,” she said through tears. “BSF officers told us they were trying to bring him back. But now there’s talk of war. I don’t know what to expect next.”
Purnam last contacted his wife the night before his capture, asking about her health as he did after every night shift. Since then, there’s been silence.
At the mere mention of “Operation Sindoor,” Rajani broke down, covering her face with her veil. “Give me back my sindoor, government!” she cried.
Purnam’s father, Bhola Sau, a retired security guard, said he accompanied his daughter-in-law to Firozpur, where army officials had initially reassured them of efforts to bring Purnam home. “Now, there’s no news,” he said, frustrated. His mother added, “He served this country for 18 years. And now we feel forgotten.”
Their home in Rishra has become a hub of concern and solidarity. Neighbors and relatives—mostly from the town’s close-knit, non-Bengali migrant community—have been visiting regularly, with news channels playing around the clock.
“We’re torn,” said Purnam’s brother, Shyamsundar Shau. “Some are calling for war, while we just want peace and his safe return. We’ll celebrate with sindoor only when he’s back.”
West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has voiced hope for a swift resolution, urging the Home Ministry to act. Hooghly MP Kalyan Banerjee also confirmed he had raised the issue with BSF authorities.
As the guns fall silent, families like the Sau’s await answers—and reunion.
