KANCHANPUR: Following the announcement of a ceasefire between Hamas and Israel, the family of Bipin Joshi, who has been held captive by Hamas for 15 months, is anxiously waiting for his safe return.
Although Bipin’s name was not included in the first phase of released hostages, his family remains hopeful that he will be freed in the subsequent phase.
Bipin’s mother, Padma, said, “We hoped Bipin would be released in the first phase, but it didn’t happen. My innocent son has been held captive for 15 months.”
She expressed her optimism that this time the ceasefire would result in his release, despite previous disappointments.
“We fear that the ceasefire may collapse into war again. All I ask is for my son’s safe release during this truce,” she pleaded with the government.
Bipin was among 49 students from Sudurpaschim University’s agriculture faculty who had traveled to Israel under the “Learn and Earn” program.
However, within a month of their arrival, Hamas attacked the southern Israeli kibbutz of Alumim, killing 10 students and taking Bipin captive. Since then, his whereabouts have remained unknown.
Israel has released a list of 33 hostages to be freed in the first phase, but Bipin’s name is not on it.
Home Minister Ramesh Lekhak assured Bipin’s family that the government is actively pursuing diplomatic efforts to secure his release.
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