The Supreme Court has served notices to the Odisha Government to decide on the release of the Maoist leaders in order to set free the abducted MLA Jhina Hikaka. The Maoists have demanded the release of several Maoist leaders to set free Hikaka.

They said they have extended several deadlines over the same and since the government didn’t come to any conclusion, they said Hikaka would be produced in the praja court on Thursday.

Meanwhile, the Odisha Government said the government was in the process of releasing the prisoners and asked Moaists to released MLA Jhina Hikaka unhurt and safe.

It may be noted that in a fresh audio tape by Maoist leader Aruna, the deadline on this issue had been extended four times and that they had no faith in the statements of the government. Aruna has criticized the government for lack of seriousness in releasing the MLA and said the fate of Hikaka would be decided by the Praja Court.

The Supreme Court, on the otherhand, wanted to know the steps being taken by the Odisha Government for the release of MLA and had seek its explanation in another two weeks from now. We have to wait and see whether Odisha Government will act timely and set free Hikaka. If not then what will happen to Hikaka in the praja court is a million dollar question for sure. (Phani)