Houses of Sukma district collector Alex Paul Menon in Chennai and Samathanapuram in Tirunelveli wore a festive look as family members celebrated his release by bursting crackers and distributing sweets.
“It’s rebirth for my son. I feel happy as a parrot just let off from a cage,” said father Varadhas.
He shared sweets with family and friends, saying their ordeal had finally come to an end.
Father-in-law T.R. Venugopal said: “We spent sleepless nights and did not eat well since the day his son was abducted on April 21. I am happy he has been released. This is great news for our family. We are relieved. We used to warn about the area where he was working. He took the responsibility of being a collector with great vigour, and never bothered about the danger he was in.”
As news of Alex’s release spread, family and friends made a beeline at Varadhas’ house in Kolathur and Venugopal’s in Mogappair to share the joy.
“I thank all those who prayed for my son’s safe release. I specially thank the political leaders who expressed support and solidarity,” Varadhas said. He said he desired his son to continue to serve the people of Sukma. “One should live through troubles and adversities.”
Maoists might have some genuine demands and grievances, but they should have not kidnapped Alex, he said. “If they had a problem, they should have taken it up with the government. My son was there only to serve the people of Sukma.