Family celebrates release of Jharkhand BDO

Ghatsila (Jharkhand), Feb 20 (ANI): Family members and friends of Jharkhand Block Development Officer (BDO) Prashant Kumar burst into celebrations after Maoists released him from captivity after six days on Friday.

Layak arrived in his native town Ghatsila last evening amid tight security.

Julie Bharati, Layak's wife thanked the State Government for her husband's safe release.

"I want to thank every official of the Jharkhand state who stood by us in our difficult times...I would also like to thank people of Jharkhand also because I think due to their blessings and prayers the release of my husband was possible," said Bharati.

Layak said the rebels released him in exchange for some jailed villagers, whom the rebels claimed were innocent.

"They (Maoists) said that the police is releasing our people, so we are also releasing you," he added.

Maoists had three demands for the release of Layak-release all 14 villagers who were arrested on the charges of aiding Naxalites, increasing payment for NREGA workers and bailout of two Maoists who were surrendered as per the Jharkhand surrender policy.

However, there was no information whether the government accepted these demands or not.

Layak was the second officer to be abducted in Jharkhand by Maoists.

In September 2009, Special officer Francis Indudwar was abducted and beheaded by the Maoists. (ANI)