The Maoist group holding ruling BJD MLA Jhina Hikaka hostage has demanded release of 30 prisoners to pave way for his release.

In a fresh letter to media, senior leader of the Andhra-Odisha Border Special Zone Committee has asked the legislator's wife to reach Balipeta in Maoist-infested in Koraput district tomorrow with the 30 prisoners. Odisha Government has already decided to facilitate release of twenty-three people out of these prisoners.

The letter written in Telugu said the abducted 37-year-old MLA would only be handed over to his family if they do not bring any police or intelligence officials with them.

Meanwhile, Odisha Zonal Committee of CPI (Maoists) which is holding Italian national Paolo Boususco hostage has urged the State Government to clarify its position on all their 13 demands.