Punjab Youth Returns to India After Harrowing Ordeal in Pakistan

Ludhiana, February 3:
A 28-year-old youth from Ludhiana, Punjab, returned to India on January 31 after enduring a month-long ordeal in Pakistan. Harvinderpal Singh and his friend unintentionally crossed into Pakistani territory during the July 2023 floods while trying to rescue livestock and belongings. Upon reaching the other side, they were detained by local villagers and handed over to Pakistani Rangers.

During 28 days in custody, the two were subjected to severe torture, including forced marches without shoes, beatings, and deprivation of food and basic necessities. They were repeatedly accused of being Indian spies, despite explaining that they had crossed the border accidentally due to the flood. After initial detention, they were transferred to police custody and later sentenced by a Lahore court to one year in prison for illegal border crossing, along with a fine, which was extended due to non-payment.

Following intervention by India and Pakistan’s Supreme Court, Harvinderpal and his friend were finally released and returned via the Wagah border. After medical check-ups in Amritsar, Harvinderpal reunited with his family in Jagrawan village, where emotional scenes unfolded as he embraced his father and wife.

Security agencies in India are now debriefing him, but Harvinderpal says that after enduring inhumane treatment in Pakistan, all he wants is peace and normalcy. Village leaders have appealed that he be allowed to recover and live without further distress.