Odisha Government today said, it will not bow down to the pressure of Maoists for the release of abducted MLA Jhina Hikaka. State Home Secretary, Upendra Nath Behera told AIR New that the government is ready to withdraw prosecution against 13 persons including five Maoists presently lodged in different jails.

The Andhra Odisha Border Special Zonal Committee of the CPI Maoist, holding the Biju Janata Dal MLA Jhina Hikaka as hostage, said the MLA is safe in their captivity.