Family of Bipin Joshi from Kanchanpur, held by Hamas, waits anxiously for his safe return following Hamas-Israel ceasefire. The news of the Hamas-Israel ceasefire has rekindled hope in the family of Bipin Joshi, who has been under Hamas captivity for the past 15 months. Although his name was not included in the first phase of the ceasefire agreement, his family is optimistic about his release in the second phase.
Bipin’s mother, Padma, said, “We had hoped that Bipin would be released in the first phase of the ceasefire, but it didn’t happen. My innocent son has been held captive for 15 months.” She added that although earlier ceasefires had also raised hopes for his release, they were left unfulfilled, but this time, she remains hopeful.
“Ceasefires are announced, but then fighting resumes. We are still haunted by the fear of another outbreak of war,” Padma added. “I plead with the government to ensure my son’s safe release during this ceasefire, no matter what.”
Bipin was one of 49 students from the Faculty of Agriculture at Far-Western University who had traveled to Israel under the ‘Learn and Earn’ program. Less than a month after their arrival, Hamas launched an attack on the Alimim Kibbutz in southern Israel. The attack claimed the lives of 10 students, while Bipin was taken captive by Hamas. Since then, his status has remained unknown.
The Israeli government has published a list of 33 hostages set to be released in the first phase of the ceasefire, but Bipin’s name is not among them.
Home Minister Ramesh Lekhak stated that the government is taking the matter seriously. “Based on information received, Bipin is safe under Hamas captivity, and the government is working diligently for his release,” said Lekhak. “With the current Hamas-Israel ceasefire in effect, we are hopeful for Bipin’s safe return.” He also mentioned that diplomatic efforts are underway to secure Bipin’s release.
