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Meet demand, pleads Rajkumar

BANGALORE, Aug 4 (PTI) — Kannada thespian Rajkumar has made a strong plea for fulfilling the demand of forest brigand Veerappan who is holding him and three more in captivity since Sunday and assured the people that he is safe.

In an audio-cassette, a copy of which has been sent to Karnataka Chief Minister S.M. Krishna from his counterpart in Tamil Nadu M.Karunanidhi, he said there was no room for fear about his safety and “I will return soon”. “He (Veerappan) has something in his mind. He has a demand. This should be fulfilled at the earliest,” Rajkumar said without specifying the demand.

The 71-year-old actor has appealed to the Centre and the Governments of Tamil Nadu and Karnataka not to send forces for a rescue operation as it would have “serious consequences”.

Speaking to the media, Mr Krishna confirmed that the five-minute cassette was authentic and the voice was that of Rajkumar’s. “When Rajkumar’s wife and children and his fans are satisfied, I have no reason to question them,” he said.