Irom Sharmila will continue her fast against Armed Forces Act

Manipur, Aug 20: Human rights activist from Manipur Irom Sharmila will continue her 14-year-long fast against the Armed Forces Special Powers Act, said her brother on Wednesday.

A day earlier, a Manipur court had acquitted her of attempted suicide, citing lack of evidence. The court has said that she should be released immediately. The court observed that an intent to commit suicide cannot be established in the case against her and she cannot be kept under arrest.

"Yesterday, just after hearing the news of Sharmila's release from the court, we were very happy because at this juncture we got moral victory. Even after her release, she will continue to fast," her brother Irom Singhajit said.

"Until and unless her demand is not fulfilled, she will continue her fasting. Our state and central government must listen to the voice of our people. In the near future, there may be changes because at the Centre also some political change is there. That's why our goal may be met in the near future," Singhajit added.

Irom Sharmila has been on an indefinite fast since November 4, 2000, demanding that the controversial Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act 1958 (AFSPA) be withdrawn.

Oneindia News