Govt mum as Veerappan’s deadline for envoys ends

But officials said they are ‘‘making efforts to secure his release through different sources’’ even as suspense mounted and anxiety gripped the government with the eight-day deadline to send Tamil activist Kolathur Mani and Kollegal Taluk JD(U) leader Mahadevaswamy as mediators expired. They, however, declined to elaborate on ‘‘different sources’’ that had been tapped in rescue efforts.

Mahadevaswamy, who had expressed his willingness to go on a mission to the jungles along with Mani but was reportedly incommunicado, has communicated that he would be available later today or tomorrow. Mediatory efforts have hit a road-block due to legal complications as Mani, charged with supplying explosives to Veerappan, among other counts, is in Bellary jail.

Karnataka HC has adjourned for hearing this week Mani’s bail application in a development that further slowed down the mediation process. Mani could be sent as an emissary only if he secures bail but if the prosecution contests his application, chances of deputing him as a mediator would further recede.