The breakthrough to ensure the safe return of the 32-year-old Collector, who was abducted on April 21, on or before May 2, came in the form of an agreement between the two mediators each of the Chattisgarh government and the Maoists at their fourth round of talks yesterday.
N Baijendra Kumar, Principal Secretary to Chief Minister Raman Singh told PTI today that the agreement has paved way for Menon's release and he is expected to be freed by tomorrow.
He said Maoists representatives -- Dr B D Sharma and Prof. G Hargopal -- met the Chief Minister this morning following which they were complimented for carrying out the dialogue process peacefully.
Following this, speaking to PTI, Sharma said the naxals have been apprised about yesterday's agreement, under which the mediators nominated by Maoists have agreed as a "gesture of goodwill" to ensure the safe return of Menon within 48 hours.
However, Sharma said neither he has heard anything yet from the Maoists' side nor have the mediators' been asked to reach the forests to pick Menon.
Meanwhile, a worried Asha, who has been eagerly awaiting for the release of her kidnapped husband expressed happiness over the agreement and hoped that Menon will return soon to his family.
Menon was taken captive from Majhipara village in Raipur district when he was holding a meeting as part of the government's special Gram Suraj Abhiyan. (MORE) PTI SNG DK HKS