KORAPUT: The news of the release of MLA Jhina Hikaka on Thursday morning saw people celebrating on the streets of Damanjodi, Koraput, Semiliguda, Laxmipur and Narayanpatna.
Hikaka’s relatives at Laxmipur paid obeisance in the local temple for his safe release. “For the last 32 days, we have been lighting diyas in the local temple praying for his safety,” said Guru Majhi, a relative of
Hikaka.
Meanwhile, Hikaka and his wife reached Koraput from Balipeta. He was received by senior district-level and police officers besides BJD activists at the circuit house. Local Kondh tribals could be seen waiting to greet their benefactor on his safe return.
Hikaka went through a thorough health check-up here with the doctors declaring that he was fine.
Jeypore MLA Rabi Narayan Nanda, who has been tracking Hikaka’s health condition during his days in captivity, expressed happiness on his release.
Hikaka left for his hometown Dumuriguda, about 10 km from Laxmipur.