Naxals release CRPF soldier kidnapped during Bijapur attack

Central Reserve Police Force CoBRA jawan Rakeshwar Singh Manhas, who was abducted by Naxals during the Bijapur ambush last week, was released on Thursday.

The soldier was released in the presence of the two government-appointed mediators, Padma Shri Dharmpal Saini and Gondwana Samaj head Telam Buraiya, and hundreds of villagers.

Manhas was brought to a CRPF camp in Bijapur after he was released.

Upon learning of her husband's release, the soldier's wife Meenu said: "Today is the happiest day of my life. I was hopeful of his return. I thank the government."

At least 22 security personnel were killed in the attack by the Naxals.

Naxals had on Tuesday released a statement wherein they claimed that the commando was in their custody. 

The two-page letter, penned by the banned Communist Party of India (Maoist), stated that the outfit was willing to negotiate with the Centre.