Jhina Hikaka

Bhubaneswar, Oct. 3: Ahead of chief minister Naveen Patnaik’s visit to Maoist-affected Malkangiri and Koraput districts on Thursday, Laxmipur MLA Jhina Hikaka, who was kidnapped by the Maoists six months ago, visited his constituency in Koraput.

This was Hikaka’s first visit to the area after his release.

The Maoists had kidnapped him in last March and kept him in captivity for nearly one month. He was released after he reportedly agreed to give up his political career and resign from the post of MLA.

However, during his visit to Laxmipur, Hikaka put up a brave face and said he had all faith in the democratic system of the country. “I will focus on the development of the area. I cannot leave my people alone fearing a threat to my life,” he said.

Hikaka admitted that there had been a constant threat to his life from the Maoists. After reaching Laxmipur, Hikaka also visited his village Dumuripadar.

He has practically shifted base to Bhubaneswar following the incident.

Hikaka’s wife, who is a schoolteacher, has also been transferred to Bhubaneswar on a deputation. His two children have been enrolled in a city-based English medium school.

Hikaka has been provided with round-the-clock security and a bungalow in a posh Bhubaneswar locality.

But during his visit to Laxmipur, Hikaka visited schools and distributed packets of sweets among children. He, however, maintained that his visit had no links with the proposed visit of the chief minister to Koraput.

During his one-day visit to Malkangiri, Naveen will distribute patta (land records) of forestland to landless people. He will also distribute cycles to students and inaugurate some hostels for SC and ST students.

After attending a meeting at Malkangiri, Naveen will visit Koraput and address a gathering there before leaving for Bhubaneswar in the afternoon.