Agnivesh appeals for collector''s release

Bhubaneswar, Feb 24 (PTI) Swami Agnivesh, who Maoistswanted to be included among the mediators, today appealed forthe release of Malkangiri district collector R V Krishnabefore this evening''s deadline.

"I appeal to the Maoists to release Malkangiri collectorbefore the deadline this evening ... After the release ofKrishna if the Maoists want me for further negotiation, I amready for that," Agnivesh told PTI over phone.

"I thank the Maoists for wanting my services but it isnot possible on my part to reach Malkangiri by this evening,"he said over phone.

The fresh demands were sent in a letter by the Maoiststhrough junior engineer Pabitra Majhi, abducted fromChitrakonda area along with Krishna but released yesterday.

Agnivesh said the three mediators G Hargopal, R SomeswarRao and Dandapani Mohanty, have done a commendable job,because of which, Majhi was released.

The social activist also thanked the Orissa governmentfor announcing that security forces would not take part incoercive action.

"This is an example for other states. The peace talkshave become a model," he said.