Mangalore: Vittal Malekudiya and his father Linganna Malekudiya who were arrested in March on charges of Naxal links, finally walked free from the Mangalore jail on July 5, Thursday.

The two were accorded a rousing reception by hundreds including members of Communist Party of India (Marxist) DYFI, SFI and others, as soon as they stepped out of the prison.  Crackers were burst and sweet were distributed and the two were taken to the CPM office in the city.

It may be recalled here that the Belthangady JMFC Court ordered their release as the police had failed to file charge sheet even after 90 days. The bail was granted subject to  production of surety of Rs 50,000 and also that the duo will have to appear before the Venoor police station every Sunday.