Orissa CM appeals for abducted Collector's release

Making an appeal for early release of abducted Malkangiri District Collector R V Krishna, Orissa Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik on Thursday said the government was evaluating all options and monitoring the situation.

"I appeal for early release of the young and energetic officer who is known for his hard work among the poor and Tribals," Patnaik told media persons in Bhubaneswar while terming the abduction of 30-year-old Krishna as unfortunate.

The government is evaluating all options and monitoring the

situation closely, the chief minister said, adding that efforts were on to secure early release of the officer.

The letter sent by the Collector's captors had the handwriting of Krishna, he said, adding that the ultras are demanding a halt to anti-Maoist operations and release of all those lodged in jails on charge of their involvement in Naxal activities.

Krishna had visited the Maoist-hit Chitrakonda area in Malkangiri several times, he said, adding steps were being taken for the release of the 2005 batch IAS officer.