Tenth year of Sharmila's indefinite hunger strike observed

Imphal, Nov 4 : Large number of people today took part in a hunger strike and dharna held at PDA complex, Porompat, Imphal East to observe the tenth year of the fast-unto-death launched by Irom Sharmila demanding repeal of Armed Forces Special Powers Act 1958 (AFSPA).

The Just Peace Foundation is observing the 'Festival of hope, justice and peace' from November 2-6 to support the strike.

Besides, a relay hunger strike launched by the Sharmila Kanba Lup on December 10 last year is continuing at PDA complex Porompat.

As a part of the Festival of Hope, Justice and Peace, a musical concert of songs composed by Irom Sharmila was held at MDU hall, Imphal West yesterday.

The observation would conclude on November 6 with all communities prayer at Nupee Lal Memorial complex, Imphal.

Sharmila has been on fast for more than nine years and is being kept alive by feeding her through her nose here at the JN hospital.

Following a massacre on November 2, 2000, at Malom, Imphal, allegedly by troops of 8 Assam Rifles, Sharmila went on a fast unto death demanding repeal of AFSPA.

For her enduring sacrifice and dedication, she was among the 1,000 women nominated for Nobel Peace Prize in 2005.

On May 8, 2007, Sharmila was awarded the Gwangju prize for Human Rights in Seoul, South Korea.

--UNI

(c) 2009 Published with permission from United News of India.
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