J&K Police reunites West Bengal man with family after 9-year separation

Jammu, Jun 15: In a humanitarian gesture, Jammu and Kashmir Police on Monday reunited a 30-year-old mentally unsound man, who was stranded in the border district of Poonch for nine years, with his family from West Bengal.

The family of Sudesh Pal Topno, son of Abhiram Topno, who was unable to provide details about his family or place of residence, was successfully traced, leading to their reunion, police said in a statement.

They said Topno had accompanied someone to Poonch for work around nine years ago and had been stranded there ever since. He had been surviving by doing odd jobs.

Police were able to establish his identity as a West Bengal native through sustained efforts, meticulous inquiry, and coordination with authorities in different states. After confirming all necessary details, Poonch Police formally handed over the man to his parents, the statement said.

The family expressed their heartfelt gratitude to police for their dedication, perseverance and commitment in tracing their son and reuniting him with them, it added.

The successful reunion reflects the humane approach and relentless efforts of police in serving the community and helping families reconnect with their missing loved ones, it said. (PTI)