Maoists snap road links despite suspension of operation

Both Varavara Rao and Swami Agnivesh have expressed their willingness to extend help and mediate.

Rao has said the state government should take stepsfor creation of proper atmosphere for holding talks.

Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik, who has appealed forearly release of the district collector and the juniorengineer, has said the situation is being closely monitored.

While various options for safe and early release ofthe two hostages were being examined, the government washopeful of getting a message from the rebels for negotiationson the issue, official sources said.

Abduction of the two drew widespread condemnation asthousands of people took out processions in several parts ofOrissa and appealed for the release of the two captivesyesterday.