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Dalbhumgarh (Jharkhand), Feb 15 (ANI): Maoists in Jharkhand on Monday laid down demands for the release of a abducted Block Development Officer (BDO), Prasant Layak, who was kidnapped on Saturday from Dalbhumgarh village in Jharkhand’s East Singhbhum District.

They said if their demands are not met the officer will be killed in seven days.

They demanded for the release of 15 villagers who were arrested in the East Singhbhum District on the charges of supporting the Maoists.

They also demanded for the immediate bail out of two surrendered Maoist cadres.

Meanwhile, addressing reporters here, State Home Secretary J B Tubid, said that the administration has launched a manhunt to trace Prasant Layak.

“We are trying our best. Whenever we will get some information, we will inform you,” he added.

Layak’s colleagues also appealed to the Maoists for the safe return of the officer.

“All the officers of the region are united and using all sources, both formal and informal, for the safe return of the kidnapped officer,” said Sitaram Bari, President, Jharkhand Civil Services Union.

BDO Prasant Leyak was kidnapped as soon as he completed a Grama Sabha in Delbhumgarh on Saturday, as hundreds of people simply became witness to the act.

According to eyewitnesses, Maoists came in seven bikes and abducted Leyak at gunpoint.

This is the second incident in the last five months in Jharkhand.

In September 2009, the Maoists had kidnapped and beheaded Special Branch Officer, Francis Induwar in Ranchi district. (ANI)