The 37-year-old Laxmipur MLA was freed at Balipeta in the Maoist hot-bed of Narayanpatna in the district where a Maoist 'praja' (people's) court had decided to release.
Clad in a green kurta and pajama, the tribal leader was handed over by the tribals to his wife, Kaushalya Majhi, and a lawyer who fights cases for the ultras and their frontal organisations, Nihar Ranjan Patnaik.
"I was treated quite well and not tortured, " Hikaka said shaking hands with the lawyer.
Looking cheerful after his gruelling ordeal, Hikaka said, "I am free now. I am in good health."
The legislator said he ate the same food as the Maoists who moved him from one place to another at least thrice during his captivity. The MLA had reportedly told the 'praja' court held on April 23 and 24 that he would resign as MLA, snap all ties with BJD and live as an ordinary citizen and work for the people.
His relieved wife, Kaushalya said, "I am thankful to the tribals and the media for their support. I was very anxious to see my husband."
The release of Hikaka, who had been abducted in the early hours of March 24 in Koraput district, was officially confirmed here by Home Secretary U N Behera.
"The MLA has been freed by the Maoists," he said. (More) PTI AAM SKN PC
