Formalities may delay release of prisoners

JEYPORE: The Red rebels have asked Laxmipur MLA Jhina Hikaka’s wife Kaushalya to reach a village in Narayanpatna block on Tuesday along with 30 prisoners to pave way for the legislator’s release. But the State Government and the district administration have so far initiated no steps to facilitate the release of prisoners with less than 24 hours to go for the deadline set by the Maoists.Sources said the police are a bit confused as the said prisoners are charged with various serious offences and their release requires proper court directives and Government order.Significantly, in several cases the prisoners had been denied bail earlier.Under such circumstances, the Government has to first appeal in court for their release under special provision with proper documents which are yet to be moved.“We are yet to initiate the process for the release of the prisoners as declared by the Government. It will be done only after receiving orders from the Government,” said a public prosecutor.Moreover, taking 30 prisoners to the notorious Balipeta village without police escort, as demanded by the Maoists, can prove risky.Meanwhile, lawyers, social activists and district administration are busy studying all legal and administration aspects for prompt release of the prisoners. Sources said papers of CMAS advisor Gananath Patra would be moved first to send across a message to the Maoists. However, the whole process would take not less than a couple of days.On the other hand, the Maoists may consider another deadline to set the hostage MLA free, sources added.