The Maoists on Thursday released the abducted BJD MLA Jhina Hikaka after holding him captivity for 34 days.
The MLA, who was freed early in the morning, reached Balipeta under Narayanpatna police limit at around 10, 30 am.
He was received by his wife Kaushalya Majhi and advocate Niahar Patnaik, the counsel for the Maoist-backed Chasi Mulia Adivasi Sangha.
Upon his arrival at Balipeta after long hours of walk in the hilly terrains, the legislator who appeared completely worn out broke into tears. He first embraced lawyer Nihar Patnaik and then his wife.
No government official or police personnel were present at Balipeta. The legislator was then taken to Koraput where he is likely to address a press meet.
Asked to share his experience in the Maoist camp, the legislator said the rebels treated him well. “They treated me well. They offered me the same food they were taking. There was no harassment whatsoever,” he said.
He informed that during his 34-day captivity he was shifted to different camps as the ultras feared attack by security personnel.
To query if he had agreed to resign from the Assembly membership as well from the BJD, the MLA said, “I think the Maoists have already told you about this.”
In an audio-tape, Maoist leader Aruna on Wednesday had said the MLA had given a written undertaking that he would resign from his present position if he failed to address the problems of the local tribals and stop the police atrocities on common people within a stipulated period.
The MLA’s wife Kaushalya, who earlier praised both the government for its efforts to secure the freedom her husband, sounded a bit different today. She said the government did not do enough for her husband’s release. She, instead, praised the media persons for their efforts to set Hikaka free.
Chief minister Naveen Patnaik said the government and the entire state felt entirely relieved.
“I’m very happy that Jhina Hikaka is on his way to Laxmipur to be with his family. The government and the entire state are relieved. His 80-year-old sick mother and wife Kaushalya are anxiously waiting for him,” the chief minister said.