In Chhatisgarh, the mediators of Government and Maoists have begun discussions in a bid to seek safe release of abducted Collector Alex Paul Menon. AIR correspondent reports that the talks between the two sides began on Thursday afternoon and no other person was allowed to be part of the discussions.

The Chhatisgarh government on Wednesday set up a Cabinet sub committee to look into all aspects to ensure secure release of the Collector. The sub committee held detailed discussions on the issue late last night.