Odisha chief minister Naveen Patnaik today again appealed the Maoists to release his party MLA, Jhina Hikaka and the second foreign national. In a statement in state legislative assembly, he said, his government has always encouraged Maoists to shun violence. If they do not resort to violence, no combing operation by the security forces would be conducted. Mr. Patnaik said, it is unfortunate that instead of distancing from violence they have mercilessly killed one innocent citizen and a police officer in Malkangiri district.

The chief minister reiterated that his government has not deviated from the agreement signed with Maoists for the secure release of the then Collector Vineel Krishna. For ensuring the secure release of his party MLA, the chief minister said, his government is examining the demands made by Maoists. Meanwhile, the dialogue for the release of the second foreign national, resumed this evening.
Maoist of Andhra- Odisha division operating in the southern odisha seems to be very adamant on their point of demands to release the abducted MLA. Regarding fulfilling demands of Maoist Mr. Patnaik said some of the demands have been fulfilled and rests are under consideration. As far as Nuak Dora and Konda Reddy two communities in Koraput is concerned the chief minister said the state government has already recommended to the union government to declare them as scheduled tribe. He has also said a high level committee has been set up to look into the protection of tribal land.