Missing nuclear scientist sends jitters nationwide, search intensifies

According to Kaiga project director Sanatkumar, Mahalingam did not pose any threat to the nation as, technically, he was not a "scientist but a mechanical engineer designated as scientific officer."

"Mahalingam was in charge of training the new recruits. He had no access to strategic documents and was not involved in any strategic program," he said.

Agrees Uttara Kannada District Superintendent of Police Raman Gupta. Mahalingam, Gupta said, did not pose any grave security threat, as he was a non-classified scientist i.e. he did not have access to critical nuclear data.

"We're yet to get any credible clue to track the missing scientist. The operation is on and hopefully we'll soon make some positive progress in our operation," Gupta said. "We're leaving no stone unturned to trace the scientist."

Gupta said the police are investigating the possibility of Mahalingam being attacked and taken away by some wild animal as "the area is surrounded by 1000 acres of dense forests."

"There are four investigating teams. We cannot negate any possibilities at this juncture. But the geography of the area is posing as a hindrance in our investigations. It is not easy to find a person in the deep forests. The area is surrounded by 1000 acres of dense forests. Forest officers are also cooperating with us in the investigation. Their report is awaited," Gupta said.