Anti-AFSPA movement in Manipur intensifies

Imphal, Oct 11 (UNI) The Working Committee of Apunba Lup (WCAL) has announced mass rallies on October 13 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.

Sit-in protest will be staged in front of the Raj Bhawan and government offices on October 13.

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 2100 hrs were largely peaceful.

Sit-in protests demanding repeal of the act were held in various parts of Manipur.

Meanwhile, the North East Students' Organisation (NESO) has announced its support to Irom Chanu Sharmila. The Vice-Chairman of NESO Lalmuanpula Punte said laws imposed in north eastern states were not imposed in 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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