Maoist leader Azad withdraws hunger strike

Cuttack: Top Maoist leader D Keshav Rao alias Azad, who was on a hunger strike for an infinite period, withdrew his strike following discussions with ADG (Jail) Arun Ray on Wednesday.

The Maoist leader, who is undergoing treatment at SCB Medical College and Hospital here, decided to withdraw his stir after the ADG promised to fulfill three out of his five demands made by him.

Talking to newsmen, ADG Arun Ray said, “I have forwarded a report on the demands made by Azad to DGP, Director of Prosecution and Home department. After the discussion, Azad has withdrawn his strike.”

When asked about the delay in justice in Azad's case, the ADG said “The cases filed against him are under trail now. So I cannot give any comments on them.”

On April 9, Azad was admitted to Capital Hospital. On April, 10 he was shifted to SCB Medical College and Hospital when his health condition deteriorated.

The Maoist leader is lodged in Jharpada Special Jail since 2011. He was on a hunger strike since March 30 demanding fulfillment of five-point charter of demands, which include speedy trial, regular production in court in connection with cases against them and status of political prisoner.