Continuing to keep a shroud of mystery on her future political plans, human rights activist Irom Chanu Sharmila, who yesterday ended her 16-year-fast against the Armed Forces Special Powers Act (AFSPA), today said that the Janata Dal United (JDU) has offered their complete support even if she does not join their party.
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“Irom Sharmila’s decision to break her hunger strike gives India another chance to start a dialogue and recognise how the AFSPA has alienated Manipur for over 35 years”. While it is unlikely that the order will be granted today, Irom Sharmila will have to remain in judicial custody, with the next day of hearing set for August 23.
The hunger strike, which she began days after 10 civilians were killed by paramilitary soldiers in Manipur, brought her supporters from around the world.
Irom, who had earlier surprised supporters by declaring she would end it to stand as an independent candidate in state elections to be held next year, told journalists outside the court that her long campaign had not worked.
Sharmila, known as the Iron Lady of Manipur, was termed a Prisoner of Conscience by Amnesty International and won many prizes for her prolonged hunger strike.
In his judgement, Magistrate Lamkkhanpau Tonsing said Irom was released on grounds that she submitted bail of 10,000 rupees ($150) and a written pledge to stop her fast.
“I have been fasting for 16 years. But our mother ordered her to go back immediately”, he said. I am ending my fast today.
She has always denied the charge, saying she is using the fast as a weapon.
The Armed Forces Special Powers Act is in effect in Indian-ruled Kashmir and in a number of northeastern areas facing separatist insurgencies. The law says troops have the right to shoot to kill suspected rebels without fear of possible prosecution and to arrest suspected militants without a warrant.
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During her judicial proceedings last week, Sharmila said her protest against AFSPA was not working and she would try a different route – although it is unclear what that may look like.
