Soren urges Maoists to release abducted Jharkhand BDO

Ranchi, Feb 15 (ANI): Jharkhand Chief Minister Shibu Soren on Monday urged the Maoists for safe release of abducted Block Development Officer (BDO) Prashant Kumar Leyak.

In a signed statement, Soren also offered to initiate a dialogue with banned Maoist groups.

"I appeal to the naxalites to free the official so that the officials can work for the state's development in a fear-free environment. Abduction of an innocent officer is not a solution to any problem," Soren said.

In his statement, Soren also assured that Jharkhand Government would take corrective measures if there were any human rights violations.

Soren also said that when he took over State's reins he had appealed to the Maoists to join the mainstream.

"Now also we (state Government) are ready for the talks," he said.

On Sunday, Soren had assured Leyak's family that the government was making efforts for his safe return.

Meanwhile, police are continuing searches to locate the BDO, who was kidnapped on Saturday from Dalbhumgarh in East Singhbhum district by armed naxalites.

The Maoists put three demands before the State Government for the safe release of Leyak-to release 15 villagers who were arrested on the charges of supporting the Maoists activities, to increase the payment of National Rural Employment Guarantee (NAREGA) scheme beneficiaries, and to bailout two surrendered Maoists cadres.

Maoists have extended their deadline from three to seven days. (ANI)