Anti AFSPA movement in Manipur intensifies

Imphal, Oct 11 (UNI) The Working Committee of Apunba Lup (WCAL) has announced mass rallies on October 13 next in Manipur as a part of the campaign to demand repeal of Armed Forces Special Powers Act 1958, and to save Sharmila, who has been on a fast for the last six years demanding repeal of the act.

All were asked to stage sit in protest in front of the Raj Bhawan and all government offices on Oct 13. Sit in protests demanding repeal of the act were held in various parts of the state.

Last night rallies were taken out by thousands of women demanding repeal of the act at Imphal East, Thoubal, Imphal West and other places.

The rallies which began around 9 pm were largely peaceful.

Meanwhile, the North East Students' Organisation (NESO) has announced its support to the struggle of Irom Chanu Sharmila. The Vice-Chairman of NESO Lalmuanpula Punte said the centre was treating the people of the NE with a different attitude.

He said the black laws imposed in north eastern states were not imposed in other states like Bihar, Andhra Pradesh hard hit by Naxalite movements. Sharmila was detained by Delhi Police, under section 309 of IPC for alleged attempt to commit suicide.

As a mark of the ongoing protest against Armed Forces Special Powers Act, 1958, Manipur Students' Association Delhi MSAD and civil societies in Delhi are organising a mass demonstration today at the nation's capital.

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