CM appeals to rebels again to free MLA

BHUBANESWAR: Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik on Sunday renewed his appeal to the CPI (Maoist) for the release of abducted MLA Jhina Hikaka. Talking to mediapersons before he left for  Delhi, the Chief Minister referred to the fresh audio tape, released by the Maoists, which said they would set free the abducted MLA in lieu of 29 prisoners.  “I will be in touch from Delhi naturally continuously about the matters relating to the release of the young tribal MLA and I appeal to the Maoists to release him immediately and unhurt,” he said. Referring to his visit to Laxmipur on Saturday, when he met Hikaka’s family members, Naveen said their anguish and agony were inexpressible.