New Delhi/Jammu: The Indian army on Wednesday handed over to Pakistani authorities a middle-aged woman, who had inadvertently crossed over border along Line of Control (LoC) in Jammu and Kashmir's Rajouri district, a defence official said.

Defence spokesman, Lt Col Manish Mehta, said that on June 21, a middle-aged woman, identified as Shabana, resident of Pakistani Kashmir crossed the Line of Control in Naoshera Sector. The woman, who appeared mentally disturbed and in a state of shock, was apprehended by troops maintaining vigil on the border.

"On establishing the fact that the lady had crossed unknowingly without any mala fide intentions, the army authorities provided her with food, clothing and medical aid," he said.

A woman medical officer was present throughout her stay to attend to her needs and provide solace, he added.

Lt. Col. Mehta said the army asked Pakistan authorities to identify the woman for subsequent handing over to them as a humanitarian and goodwill gesture.

She was handed over to Pakistan authorities from Chakanda Bag Crossing Point on Wednesday.

Mehta said that keeping in view the holy month of Ramadan and the ethos of the Indian Army, she was presented with new clothes and dry fruits before being sent back.

(IANS)