BHUBANESWAR: There has been no breakthrough in the MLA hostage crisis with the Andhra-Odisha Border Special Zonal Committee (AOBSZC) of the CPI(Maoist) announcing that the decision of the praja court on Jhina Hikaka will be declared by April 25.In a fresh audio tape, Maoist leader Aruna has said on behalf of the AOBSZC, “we will inform the media by April 25 about the final verdict of the praja court which will be held one of these days.” The AOBSZC has also decided to observe a protest week from April 24 to oppose Operation Greenhunt and recent heavy deployment of Central forces in Chhattisgarh.Stating that the praja court is yet to take place, Aruna said when the State Government is taking so much time to take decisions, the AOBSZC will also take time to convene the praja court. The Maoist leader said the MLA is safe and with them. Contradicting speculations that he has been freed, she said the legislator is yet to be released. The Maoists have given two-day bandh call on April 20 and 21. The Chasi Mulia Adivasi Sangh (CMAS) has also blocked roads to Narayanpatna and Bandhugaon by felling trees. The Maoist leader said the people are vehemently opposing the State Government’s offer and decisions. Sources said the Maoists are not prepared to dilute their demand for unconditional release of 29 prisoners. Nihar Patnaik, the Koraput-based lawyer of CMAS and CPI(Maoist), said the Maoists have criticised the State Government for not taking any steps for securing the release of the MLA. The Maoists think the Government announcement for withdrawal of prosecution against 13 prisoners (eight activists of the CMAS and five Maoists) is only a ploy for buying time, Nihar said, adding that they are firm on their demand for the release of all the 29 prisoners in exchange for the MLA. The Maoists have asked the State Government to take steps for facilitating the release of 29 prisoners as per their demand and complete withdrawal of prosecution on 13 persons by April 25. The Maoists have said that the Koraput-based lawyer and the MLA’s wife can take back Hikaka after these announcements are implemented. However, they have not made it clear where will they release the MLA. Home Secretary U N Behera admitted that another audio tape has been released by the AOBSZC of the CPI (Maoist) through the media on Friday. The Maoists have indicated about the bandh on April 20 and 21. The State Government has decided to facilitate the release of 25 persons from jail and take steps to withdraw prosecution against 13 of them following due process of law. Behera renewed his appeal for the release of Hikaka immediately, unhurt and in good health.
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