Gajanand’s release raises hope of these four families in Rajasthan

The homecoming of Gajanand who was for more than three decades lodged in Pakistan jail, has ignited hope of four families in Barmer and Jaisalmer who are still waiting for their loved ones. Bhagu Singh, Sahuram, Tillaram and Jamaluddin Khan are yet to unite with their families in India. 

All the four men had crossed into Pakistani territory by mistake while grazing cattle or picking wood for fuel.

Bhagu Singh had strayed into Pakistani territory in 1985. His wife Lakshmi was then 28 years old. She is now more than 50 years old and is waiting for her husband to return. Now, the news of the return of Jaipur resident Gajanand has come as a ray of hope for Lakshmi. Similarly, Sahu Ram, a resident of Barmer district, lost his way and was caught by Pakistan Rangers on May 31, 1989. His wife Bhuridevi said that she has been waiting for her husband for the last 29 years. Same is the story of Tillaram and Jamaldeen Khan. In 1991, a letter from Karachi jail was received which mentioned that Jamaldeen was in Karachi Central Jail. Jamaluddin’s son Hasam Khan said that he has sent many letters to government, but there has been no action. 

However, there are stories with happy ending. With the efforts of Bhuvanesh Jain of the Nehru Yuva Kendra of Barmer seven people from Barmar and Jaisalmer districts, who were locked in Pakistani jails have returned. In 2010, some Pakistani prisoners had also been released.

The family members of Bhagu Singh, Sahuram, Tillaram and Jamaluddin are happy that Gajanand is finally united with his family. However, they hope that the central and state governments should also make efforts to get their release.