tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-52810672014593151392024-02-19T22:17:49.033+05:30Save Sharmila Solidarity CampaignSave Sharmila Solidarity Campaign is a nation-wide campaign in support of Irom Sharmila and against the draconian AFSPA Repeal AFSPAhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07952352387600992296noreply@blogger.comBlogger91125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5281067201459315139.post-73110610269639167262016-10-02T11:20:00.001+05:302016-10-02T11:20:18.781+05:30PRESS RELEASE: SAVE SHARMILA SOLIDARITY CAMPAIGN DISSOLVED<div dir="ltr"><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align:justify"><br></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align:justify"><b>PRESS RELEASE: SAVE SHARMILA SOLIDARITY CAMPAIGN DISSOLVED </b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align:justify"><br></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align:justify">2nd October, International Day of Non Violence</p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align:justify">New Delhi </p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align:justify"><br></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align:justify">Save Sharmila Solidarity Campaign, that was started in the year 2009 and was working towards Repeal of AFSPA through highlighting struggle of Irom Sharmila and to spread voice of Irom Sharmila throughout the country has decided to dissolve itself with the fact that a dedicated campaign was required to stand with sharmila as she was imprisoned and was unable to move frequently at various places to speak about her demand, but now she is free and therefore a dedicated campaign is not required. SSSC welcomes Sharmila's decision to leave fast and to take struggle in her hand and speaking about this through her approach and SSSC stands with her in this decision, however as SSSC is a non political movement and was specifically structured for the cause, it cannot become associated with any politician. </p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align:justify"><br></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align:justify">SSSC during all these years of ground struggle remained a movement that was supported by people and sustained without any funding from national or international organizations. It completely championed itself in bringing the cause of Irom sharmila in mainstream through its dedicated approach and innovative campaigns. SSSC was the campaign that revealed through its RTI that NHRC had not visited Manipur to investigate any human rights violations or to meet Irom sharmila during 2000 to 2011. Later, SSSC delegation met with NHRC chairpersons two times and on this memorandum cause of AFSPA was first time discussed before NHRC meeting with NGOs. SSSC has organised documentary screenings and panel discussions at many educational institutions. SSSC has organized numerous public demonstrations, candle vigils, human chains, rallies etc in support of Irom Sharmila in various states and had also organized nationwide signature campaign that receieved lakhs of signatures from people and even it was automatically organized in other counties. SSSC has also led 4500 km Srinagar-Imphal yatra to highlight struggle of Irom sahrmila and has written numerous letters to concerned authorities and government. SSSC convey its best wishes to Sharmila and also extend its sincere thanks to all who has been associated with the campaign throughout these years and made it one of the most recognized voices. </p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align:justify"><br></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align:justify">SSSC decided to dissolve the campaign on this day of Gandhi birth anniversary as it is the day known as International Day of Non Violence. SSSC stands with the cause of Repeal AFSPA from all areas of North East and J&K. SSSC has been now dissolved and a new and fresh campaign , with another name and new team would be start for the cause of Repeal AFSPA. </p> <p class="gmail-MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align:justify"><br></p><p class="gmail-MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align:justify"><br></p><p class="gmail-MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align:justify">Ravi Nitesh</p> <p class="gmail-MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align:justify">Convener- Save Sharmila Solidarity Campaign </p> <p class="gmail-MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align:justify">+91-9958907799</p> <p class="gmail-MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align:justify"><a href="mailto:savesharmila@gmail.com">savesharmila@gmail.com</a> <a href="mailto:ravinitesh@gmail.com">ravinitesh@gmail.com</a> </p><div>Jayachandra Ramchandran- Kerla, Md. Tanveer- Tamilnadu, Guddi- Maharashtra, Mithilesh Pandey- Madhya Pradesh, Gufran Khan- Uttar Pradesh, Subhajit- Kolkata, Zaheeb Ajmal- Bihar, Pankaj Bhushan- Jharkhand, Devika Mittal- Delhi, Deepak- Assam and others. </div><div><br></div>-- <br><div class="gmail_signature"><div dir="ltr"><div>Regards,</div> <div> <img src="http://www.e-paolive.net/galleries/images/misc/2012/07/Sharmila_20120711.jpg" width="96" height="72"></div> <div><b>Save Sharmila Solidarity Campaign</b></div> <div><strong><font face="georgia, serif" size="1">(A joint initiative of various organizations & movements)</font></strong></div><div><font face="courier new, monospace" size="1"><strong>Blog: <a href="http://www.repealafspa.blogspot.com" target="_blank">www.repealafspa.blogspot.com</a> </strong></font></div><div><font face="courier new, monospace" size="1"><strong><a href="mailto:E-mail%3Asavesharmila@gmail.com" target="_blank">E-mail:savesharmila@gmail.com</a> </strong></font></div><div><font face="courier new, monospace" size="1"><strong>Facebook: Groups/savesharmilacampaign</strong></font></div> <div><font face="'Comic Sans MS'" size="1"><b><br></b></font></div> <div><br></div></div></div> </div> Repeal AFSPAhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07952352387600992296noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5281067201459315139.post-55136497113428490582016-09-05T22:12:00.001+05:302016-09-05T22:12:34.812+05:30GATHERING IN SOLIDARITY WITH IROM SHARMILA AND ANTIAFSPA<div dir="ltr"><div><div class="gmail_signature"><div dir="ltr"><div dir="ltr"><div dir="ltr"><div dir="ltr"><div dir="ltr"><div dir="ltr"><div dir="ltr"><div dir="ltr"><div dir="ltr"><div dir="ltr"><div dir="ltr"><p class="MsoNormal"><b><span style="font-size:10pt;line-height:115%">9 August 2016: New Delhi and Hyderabad<span></span></span></b></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align:justify"><br></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align:justify">On 9<sup>th</sup> August, even as Irom Sharmila broke her sixteen-year long fast, peoplegathered in New Delhi in solidarity with her indomitable spirit. Academicians, students and human rights activists, gathered at JantarMantar, New Delhi, and expressedsolidarity through songs, poetry, talks, and a candle-light vigil. The mood was upbeat, with a large turn-out -- over a hundred people on a working day, despite rainy weather and short notice. </p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align:justify"><br></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align:justify">The group issued a statement which noted, '<i>Today, Irom Sharmila makes a move towards freedom, by giving up her fast, which has lasted nearly 16 years. We feel <b>deep respect for Irom Sharmila's non-violent struggle</b>, and support her decision to give up the fast. <b>The struggle for peace and justice will continue."</b><span></span></i></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align:justify"><i><b><br></b></i></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align:justify"><i><b><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqKM_Cf40sCcpfSVMrsrzDStsGrqEQ-Ca6pvIl2XQlCXQJ5_4Fqrjmt1zkT96MtAcMUmNX43R6WZi5AkUEmDO_W0yxi0oU8IRdT2RJ6rjvwKVgrLDg43bPDe9heQ7Sh75-Ll_QNVuJ3OGQ/s1600/solidarity.action+Irom+sharmila.+New+Delhi%252C+9.8.2016+pic+Sarvesh-754813.jpg"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqKM_Cf40sCcpfSVMrsrzDStsGrqEQ-Ca6pvIl2XQlCXQJ5_4Fqrjmt1zkT96MtAcMUmNX43R6WZi5AkUEmDO_W0yxi0oU8IRdT2RJ6rjvwKVgrLDg43bPDe9heQ7Sh75-Ll_QNVuJ3OGQ/s320/solidarity.action+Irom+sharmila.+New+Delhi%252C+9.8.2016+pic+Sarvesh-754813.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_6326889504161829538" /></a><br><br></b></i></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align:justify"><i><b><br></b></i></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align:justify"><br></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align:justify">The solidarity event was a spontaneous initiative arising from heart-felt respect. The venue reflectedthis, filled as it was with posters, paintings and banners about the struggles by Irom Sharmila,MeiraPaibis (women's groups, literally women holding `mashaals'), and other civil society groups in Manipur. The event was initiated by two independent voluntary groups, Sampurna Trust and Save Sharmila Solidarity Campaign. </p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align:justify"><br></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align:justify">Participants included women's movement activists RunuChakraborty, Shanti and Indira Mukherjee; MonishaBehl of North-East Network; journalists Pamela Philipose and SujataMadhok (President of Delhi Union of Working Journalists); NAPM (National Alliance of People's Movements) activists Shabnamand Vimalbhai; theatre artistes Nisha, Seema, AyushChoudhary and Afaqullah (who came from Faizabad, U.P.); human rights activists Rita Manchanda and Sehjo Singh; labour activistsRakhiSehgal, andR.Geetha of PenurammaIyakkam, Chennai; SagariRamdas and Madhoo who work with adivasi groups in Andhra Pradesh; women's organizations Sama and Saheli;academicians Mary Johnand AnuradhaMarwah Roy; students from JNU, Delhi University, South Asia University; and several others. </p> <p class="MsoNormal"><br></p><p class="MsoNormal">Many people have been inspired over the years by Sharmila's struggle, and this was evident in the energy of the gathering.The group sang movement songs with great feeling, attracting the attention of people from near-by protests and dharnas–songs of struggle such as `Issliyeraahsangharshki ham chune'; `Khamoshitodovaqtaagaya'; `Mil kechalo'; and several others. Some read out poems they have written for or about Sharmila, including writerSagariChhabra: "You resist violence by denying yourself taste/ Make haste, oh world, listen to this voice…." </p> <p class="MsoNormal"><br></p><p class="MsoNormal">In its statement, the group noted the historical significance of 9 August: on this day, in 1942, the British government arrested Mahatma Gandhi and other leaders, and on 15 August 1942, promulgated the Armed Forced Special Powers Ordinance, to quell the <b>Quit India movement</b>. Later -- in 1958 -- the Indian government promulgated <b>the Armed Forces Special Powers Act (AFSPA)</b>, and subsequently imposed it in several parts of the country. AFSPA perpetuates violation of fundamental democratic rights by granting excessive powers, and impunity, to armed forces. </p> <p class="MsoNormal"><br></p><p class="MsoNormal">Atrocities against ordinary citizens have been documented over the years. Recently, the Supreme Court of India ruled that over 1,500 cases of alleged `fake encounters' in Manipur are to be thoroughly probed. The first six cases investigated by the Supreme Court have all proved to be <b>fake encounters</b>: innocent persons have been killed, by armed forces or police commandos. The Court has questioned impunity, ruling that armed forces cannot use excessive force even in areas that come under AFSPA. </p> <p class="MsoNormal"><br></p><p class="MsoNormal">The group asserted: <b><i>`Humane, democratic solutions are needed to solve real problems</i></b><i> faced by people; dialogue rather than repression. We stand in solidarity with democratic people's movements in Manipur, and elsewhere in the country being waged by dalits, minorities and other marginalised sections. <b>We -- ordinary people-- care for democracyand human rights</b>, peace and good governance, accountability and justice. We feel that we are all responsible for helping bring this about. We need to listen, learn, and together search for ways to move ahead, to actually resolve many very difficult situations.'</i></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align:justify"><br></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align:justify">While speaking at the gathering, senior social activistShanti di noted that Irom Sharmila's struggle is associated not only with AFSPA, but in fact with the conscience of all of us. We should be ready to speak out and protect democratic values, remaining alive to violations anywhere in the country. </p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align:justify"><br></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align:justify">Noted historian Uma Chakravarty said that the struggle against AFSPA and other such laws existed well before Irom Sharmila started her fast. She became well-known since she continued her struggle very strongly and peacefully. What Irom did is for the people and most importantly the cause. People are suffering atrocities in all areas where AFSPA is imposed including North East and Jammu & Kashmir. </p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align:justify"><br></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align:justify">Political scientist DeeptiMehrotra, author of the book <i>Burning Bright: Irom Sharmila and the Struggle for Peace in Manipur</i>, noted that AFSPA has failed as a counter-insurgency measure. To bring about peace, we must take responsibility collectively, rather than any one person bearing the burden. She proposed observing 9 August as<b> a day of reflection</b> upon our own ethics and politics, upon freedom, justice, peace -- and hope. </p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align:justify"><br></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align:justify">ShriSatyapal, senior Gandhian and trustee of Servants of Peoples Society,reiterated that we all support Irom Sharmila, and stated that the government'spolicy of ignorance has been exposed by her struggle. He warned the state that with its tools of ignorance and atrocities, democratic values will only become weak and produce dangerous results for the country. </p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align:justify"><br></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align:justify">Ravi Nitesh, Convener of Save Sharmila Solidarity Campaign (SSSC),noted that Sharmila's decision to enter electoral democracy reflects how determined she is. She is ready to change her form of struggle, in pursuit of the objective – a positive sign that activists can be quite flexible in their approach; although the government remains rigid. The Indian government has failed to respond to this unprecedented democratic and fully non-violent struggle.</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align:justify"><br></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align:justify">Devika Mittal from SSSC expressed her opinion that whatever decision Sharmila takes, it is her life and she is definitely free to live it in her own way. Her struggle has worked as a torch bearer for many of us and we believe that the light of hope that she has shown us will continue through collective struggle.</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0.0001pt"><br></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0.0001pt">Vani from Saheli informed the gathering that several activists have launched a global women's signature campaign expressing solidarity for Sharmila and demanding repeal of AFSPA. ShrutiAchesh from SSSC said that our struggle for justice and peace must go forward and we must try to meet every month to discuss the strategies to take this movement further.</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0.0001pt"><span> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align:justify">Social anthropologist Felix Padel noted that people across the world are today struggling against militarization and destructive development, and expressing solidarity with all these, he sang `Blowingwith the wind', a song of sensitive, intelligent protest. <span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align:justify"><br></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align:justify">As darkness fell, each person in the gathering lit a candle or diya, as a mark of their contribution to carrying on the struggle for justice, peace and democracy in Manipur and the rest of the country. Everybody sang 'Tuzindahaitohzindagikijeetpeyaqeenkar', a movement song expressing deep faith in the forces of life and hope.</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0.0001pt"><b><br></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0.0001pt"><b><br></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0.0001pt"><b>A Sister Event – in Hyderabad<span></span></b></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align:justify">Activists in Hyderabad too held a solidarity event on 9<sup>th </sup>August, at Lamakaan. The Delhi and Hyderabad teams had loosely coordinatedthe planning of both events. </p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align:justify">Forum for Social Justice, Hyderabad organized a solidarity meet to mark the historic moment.There were about thirty odd people in Lamakaan yesterday. It was a collaborative effort wherefour people read out a brief introduction to Manipur's history, Sharmila, the Meira Paibis' protests, AFSPA etc.</p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align:justify"><span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align:justify"><br></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align:justify">Six people -- activists, PhD scholars and researchers -- recited poems from the North East in English, including a poem by Irom Sharmila. Vasudha Nagraj<a name="_GoBack"></a> had gone through the 180-pages Supreme Court judgment (on the PIL by EEVFAM) and culled out significant points, which she read out. A couple of people spoke, including Satyavati, who runs Bhumika, a feminist collective and a magazine in Telugu; who had met Irom Sharmila. Vimala, an activist, sang songs in Telugu about continuing a struggle against repression and violence. A photo essay on Irom Sharmila by Jansen-Lonnquist, was screened to the background music of Dylan's 'Blowing in the wind'."<span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align:justify"><br></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align:justify">This song, coincidentally featured in both solidarity events ,is a passionate indictment of human apathy, and assertion of the necessity of empathy and empathetic action:<span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0.0001pt;text-align:justify"><br></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0.0001pt;text-align:justify">"How many years must the cannon-balls fly<span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0.0001pt;text-align:justify">Before they are finally banned? <span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0.0001pt;text-align:justify">…How many times can a man turn his head<span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0.0001pt;text-align:justify">And pretend that he just doesn't see?<span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0.0001pt;text-align:justify">…How many deaths must it take before he knows<span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0.0001pt;text-align:justify">Too many people have died?"<span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0.0001pt;text-align:justify"><b> </b></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0.0001pt;text-align:justify"><b>Credit for the feature: Save Sharmila Solidarity Campaign &Sampurna Trust<span></span></b></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align:justify"><span> <a href="mailto:savesharmila@gmail.com">savesharmila@gmail.com</a> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0.0001pt"><span> </span></p></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div> </div> Repeal AFSPAhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07952352387600992296noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5281067201459315139.post-86581645364665089752016-08-10T16:38:00.001+05:302016-08-10T16:38:48.831+05:30Press Release: Solidarity Action for Irom Sharmila in Delhi<p class="mobile-photo"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaDVW8OFOd4s4ayBo68HOhTjFlJv70A16LmKUkjcUU4X_o5Bz6_ROrLFGy53Y9u6dLrPp4_mnvOuEBh2lZhRhKL8aDvuWJHxoy3YQYLerndsDFQIgfTp4CfgLeWO1E-RVuTOZvIU7EiE7L/s1600/solidarity+with+Irom+sharmila+9+Aug+2016+pic+Sarvesh-728832.jpg"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaDVW8OFOd4s4ayBo68HOhTjFlJv70A16LmKUkjcUU4X_o5Bz6_ROrLFGy53Y9u6dLrPp4_mnvOuEBh2lZhRhKL8aDvuWJHxoy3YQYLerndsDFQIgfTp4CfgLeWO1E-RVuTOZvIU7EiE7L/s320/solidarity+with+Irom+sharmila+9+Aug+2016+pic+Sarvesh-728832.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_6317155277586820306" /></a></p><p class="mobile-photo"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmXGYkGmmt9tw6V6csUFKhtiJ3FSfYjl97XJgtPOoM3sFNYM5Vj89Ay5ts9dG0WHf79ydHWprgn-yXje4YjX1BhG7CdMKSvmCe7A3fdV7xF0dDSO5f8FyV0ZJhWb_MUb7Dzn1VXTeDYF2T/s1600/solidarity+action+in+Delhi+for+irom+sharmila%252C+9+Aug+2016+picSarvesh-730439.jpg"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmXGYkGmmt9tw6V6csUFKhtiJ3FSfYjl97XJgtPOoM3sFNYM5Vj89Ay5ts9dG0WHf79ydHWprgn-yXje4YjX1BhG7CdMKSvmCe7A3fdV7xF0dDSO5f8FyV0ZJhWb_MUb7Dzn1VXTeDYF2T/s320/solidarity+action+in+Delhi+for+irom+sharmila%252C+9+Aug+2016+picSarvesh-730439.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_6317155281071845186" /></a></p><p class="mobile-photo"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTriw4tmVWZE_6qTtjdoihHAHtLGN5TmjPQ76YYU_YLY5cFSdXF2I5j_RGenTqInVbC2v48Bdj2vfHrF0yaW8deDcsAbeyxpBe2cHgxd7aYtScgL9gOISZVzlAH-Gl8UuetyrE1yhLAzQT/s1600/solidarity+action+for+irom+sharmila+in+delhi-731639.jpg"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTriw4tmVWZE_6qTtjdoihHAHtLGN5TmjPQ76YYU_YLY5cFSdXF2I5j_RGenTqInVbC2v48Bdj2vfHrF0yaW8deDcsAbeyxpBe2cHgxd7aYtScgL9gOISZVzlAH-Gl8UuetyrE1yhLAzQT/s320/solidarity+action+for+irom+sharmila+in+delhi-731639.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_6317155284985226178" /></a></p><p class="mobile-photo"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiH8RP4eE9dCLFRDtito5nhmNZnXrxJEZe-Xy-FyhyphenhyphenVHlBZTTo143Bq5ibPSXk3L_NcLucKGlrFCbQxiuXZjTJzcb-Fd1J0whLfL6P2z3Ohh7fN3M6vhnvNBjKpLEsh5Q7m0eauzZwZ-tTf/s1600/IMG-20160810-WA0005-732741.jpg"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiH8RP4eE9dCLFRDtito5nhmNZnXrxJEZe-Xy-FyhyphenhyphenVHlBZTTo143Bq5ibPSXk3L_NcLucKGlrFCbQxiuXZjTJzcb-Fd1J0whLfL6P2z3Ohh7fN3M6vhnvNBjKpLEsh5Q7m0eauzZwZ-tTf/s320/IMG-20160810-WA0005-732741.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_6317155289152621410" /></a></p><p class="mobile-photo"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEil6fmDlOH9lIczY1icdKKPS8mB9jPd8rkjomj1IX6g1Iitaovz3QCIpcxA_U32CoY3o_hSmUllBjt8NHkYiEOu8RHDbmRuNtZe27z3Bi5xAqqqSwxm3BasXPJZK-dESjH2Gyjed3MWvfl5/s1600/WP_20160809_16_32_24_Pro-733682.jpg"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEil6fmDlOH9lIczY1icdKKPS8mB9jPd8rkjomj1IX6g1Iitaovz3QCIpcxA_U32CoY3o_hSmUllBjt8NHkYiEOu8RHDbmRuNtZe27z3Bi5xAqqqSwxm3BasXPJZK-dESjH2Gyjed3MWvfl5/s320/WP_20160809_16_32_24_Pro-733682.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_6317155297680976210" /></a></p><div dir="ltr"><div class="gmail_quote"><div dir="ltr"><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0.0001pt;text-align:justify"><b><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:'Times New Roman',serif;background-image:initial;background-repeat:initial">10 August 2016, New Delhi</span></b><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:'Times New Roman',serif;background-image:initial;background-repeat:initial"></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0.0001pt;text-align:justify"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:'Times New Roman',serif;background-image:initial;background-repeat:initial"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0.0001pt;text-align:justify"><b><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:'Times New Roman',serif;background-image:initial;background-repeat:initial">Press Release</span></b><b><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:'Times New Roman',serif"> </span></b><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:'Times New Roman',serif;background-image:initial;background-repeat:initial"></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0.0001pt;text-align:justify"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:'Times New Roman',serif;background-image:initial;background-repeat:initial"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0.0001pt;text-align:justify"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:'Times New Roman',serif;background-image:initial;background-repeat:initial">A solidarity action expressing deep respect for Irom Sharmila and supporting the ongoing struggle for justice by civil society in Manipur, was organized at Jantar Mantar, New Delhi, on 9 August. The solidarity event saw a large turn-out of over a hundred people, despite rainy weather.</span><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:'Times New Roman',serif"> <span style="background-image:initial;background-repeat:initial"></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0.0001pt;text-align:justify"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:'Times New Roman',serif;background-image:initial;background-repeat:initial"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0.0001pt;text-align:justify;background-image:initial;background-repeat:initial"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:'Times New Roman',serif">Participants included women's movement activists Shanti, Runu Chakraborty and Nandini Rao; author of Irom Sharmila's biography "Burning Bright" Deepti Priya Mehrotra; human rights activists Devika Mittal, Ravi Nitesh, Shruti Achesh and Rita Manchanda; historian Uma Chakravarty; Monisha Behl of North-East Network; senior journalists Pamela Philipose and Sujata Madhok (President, Delhi Union of Working Journalists); Servants of the People Society Trustee, octogenarian Shri Satya Paul; Activist Dipak Dholakia, NAPM (National Alliance of People's Movements) activists Shabnam and Vimal bhai; theatre activists Nisha and Afaqullah (he came from Faizabad, U.P, and joined in singing IPTA songs); R.Geetha of Penuramma Iyakkam, Chennai; Sagari Ramdas and Madhoo who work with tribal groups in Andhra Pradesh; labor activist Rakhi Sehgal; academicians Mary John, Felix Padel and Anuradha Marwah Roy; NGOs Sama and Saheli; students from JNU, Delhi University, South Asia University; and several others. The solidarity action was organised by two autonomous groups, Sampurna Trust and Save Sharmila Solidarity Campaign.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0.0001pt;text-align:justify;background-image:initial;background-repeat:initial"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:'Times New Roman',serif"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0.0001pt;text-align:justify;background-image:initial;background-repeat:initial"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:'Times New Roman',serif">The people gathered sang movement songs -- songs of struggle, such as `Tu zinda hai to zindagi ki jeet mein yakeen kar' and `Khamoshi todo vaqt aa gaya'. Several persons have been inspired by Sharmila over the years, and this was evident in the energy of the gathering. Some read out poems they have written about Sharmila, including Sagari Chhabra: "You resist violence by denying yourself taste/ Make haste, oh world, listen to this voice…." </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0.0001pt;text-align:justify;background-image:initial;background-repeat:initial"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:'Times New Roman',serif"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0.0001pt;text-align:justify;background-image:initial;background-repeat:initial"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:'Times New Roman',serif">The gathering noted that on 9 August 1942, the British government arrested Mahatma Gandhi and other leaders, and on 15 August 1942, it promulgated the Armed Forced Special Powers Ordinance, to quell the Quit India movement. In 1958, the Indian government promulgated <b>the Armed Forces Special Powers Act (AFSPA)</b>, and subsequently imposed it in several parts of the country. People in Manipur, including human rights and women activists, are struggling for AFSPA to be repealed. The Act perpetuates violation of fundamental democratic rights by granting excessive powers, and impunity, to armed forces. Recently, the Supreme Court of India ruled that over 1,500 cases of alleged `fake encounters' in Manipur are to be thoroughly investigated; the first six cases investigated have all been proved to be <b>fake encounters</b>: killing of innocent persons, by armed forces or police commandos. </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0.0001pt;text-align:justify;background-image:initial;background-repeat:initial"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:'Times New Roman',serif"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0.0001pt;text-align:justify"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:'Times New Roman',serif;background-image:initial;background-repeat:initial">The people gathered agreed that</span><b><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:'Times New Roman',serif"> <span style="background-image:initial;background-repeat:initial">"humane, democratic solutions are needed to solve real problems</span></span></b><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:'Times New Roman',serif"> <span style="background-image:initial;background-repeat:initial">faced by people; dialogue rather than repression." Each person lit a candle or a diya, as a mark of the continuing struggle for justice, peace and democracy in Manipur and the rest of the country. It is not necessary for one person to take the struggle onto her shoulders: the burden is shared by others in civil society. The group noted, "We</span> <b><span style="background-image:initial;background-repeat:initial">care for democracy,</span></b> <span style="background-image:initial;background-repeat:initial">peace, good governance and justice, and feel that we are all responsible for helping to bring this about. We need to listen, learn, and together search for ways to move ahead, to actually resolve many very difficult situations."</span><br> <br> <b>Press Release by Save Sharmila Solidarity Campaign & Sampurna Trust </b></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align:justify"><i><span style="font-size:12pt;line-height:115%;font-family:'Times New Roman',serif;background-image:initial;background-repeat:initial">or any further information, contact 9958907799 (Ravi Nitesh) or</span></i><i><span style="font-size:12pt;line-height:115%;font-family:'Times New Roman',serif"> </span></i><span style="font-size:12pt;line-height:115%;font-family:'Times New Roman',serif"><br> <i><span style="background-image:initial;background-repeat:initial">9711793492 (Deepti Priya Mehrotra)</span></i></span><span style="font-size:12pt;line-height:115%;font-family:'Times New Roman',serif"></span></p></div> </div><br><br clear="all"><div><br></div>-- <br><div class="gmail_signature" data-smartmail="gmail_signature"><div dir="ltr"><div>Regards,</div> <div> <img src="http://www.e-paolive.net/galleries/images/misc/2012/07/Sharmila_20120711.jpg" width="96" height="72"></div> <div><b>Save Sharmila Solidarity Campaign</b></div> <div><strong><font face="georgia, serif" size="1">(A joint initiative of various organizations & movements)</font></strong></div><div><font face="courier new, monospace" size="1"><strong>Blog: <a href="http://www.repealafspa.blogspot.com" target="_blank">www.repealafspa.blogspot.com</a> </strong></font></div><div><font face="courier new, monospace" size="1"><strong><a href="mailto:E-mail%3Asavesharmila@gmail.com" target="_blank">E-mail:savesharmila@gmail.com</a> </strong></font></div><div><font face="courier new, monospace" size="1"><strong>Facebook: Groups/savesharmilacampaign</strong></font></div> <div><font face="'Comic Sans MS'" size="1"><b><br></b></font></div> <div><strong><font size="1"></font></strong> </div> <div><font size="1">We welcome your participation/suggestion/feedbacks. </font></div></div></div> </div> Repeal AFSPAhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07952352387600992296noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5281067201459315139.post-18622617689563606592016-08-08T18:27:00.001+05:302016-08-08T18:27:19.226+05:30INVITE: 9 August, 2.30 to 6.30 p.m., at Jantar Mantar: Solidarity Action with Irom Sharmila & Democratic Movements for Justice & Peace<div dir="ltr"><div class="gmail_quote"><div dir="ltr"><div class="gmail_quote"><div dir="ltr"><div class="gmail_quote"><div dir="ltr"><div class="gmail_quote"><div dir="ltr"><b><span style="font-size:12pt;line-height:115%">9 August 2016: Marking Solidarity </span></b><br><span><span style="font-size:12pt;line-height:115%"><b><span><span style="font-size:12pt;line-height:115%"><b>2.30 to 6.30 p.m.:</b></span></span><span><span style="font-size:12pt;line-height:115%"><b> at Jantar Mantar<br></b></span></span></b></span></span><span><span style="font-size:12pt;line-height:115%"><i>We hope to reflect on our own politics and ethics... on freedom, justice, peace... democracy... with songs, poetry, music, drawings, ... Some may want to fast during the day, in solidarity with Irom Sharmila's long fast. We would light candles, before we leave, ... towards the future. <br></i></span></span><p class="MsoNormal"><b><span style="font-size:12pt;line-height:115%"><br></span></b></p><span><span style="font-size:12pt;line-height:115%"><b><br></b></span></span><p class="MsoNormal"><b><span style="font-size:12pt;line-height:115%"> </span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align:center" align="center"><b><span style="font-size:12pt;line-height:115%">9 August 2016: A Day of Reflection</span></b></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align:center" align="center"><b><span style="font-size:12pt;line-height:115%">Reaffirming Solidarity -- Towards Justice, Peace, and Hope</span></b></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12pt;line-height:115%"> To</span><span style="line-height:115%">day, Irom Sharmila makes a move towards freedom, by giving up her fast, which has lasted nearly 16 years. We feel <b>deep respect for Irom Sharmila's non-violent struggle </b>and her indomitable spirit, and support her decision to give up the fast. <b>The struggle for peace and justice will continue.</b> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="line-height:115%"> On 9 August, 1942, Mahatma Gandhi and other leaders of the <b>Quit India movement</b> were arrested. The British government promulgated the Armed Forced Special Powers Ordinance on 15 August 1942, to quell the Quit India movement. </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="line-height:115%"> The government of India promulgated<b> the Armed Forces Special Powers Act (AFSPA), </b>1958; and subsequently imposed it in several parts of the country. People in Manipur, including Imas (`mothers': elderly <b>women activists</b>), Meira Paibis (women's groups, literally women holding `mashaals'), and many civil society groups, are struggling for AFSPA to be repealed, in the interests of peace and justice. They want good governance to be restored in the state. Experts argue that the Act perpetuates violation of fundamental democratic rights. It grants excessive powers, and impunity, to armed forces. Atrocities against ordinary citizens have been documented over the years. </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="line-height:115%"> In 2012, the Extra Judicial Execution Victim Families Association (EEVFAM) filed a PIL in the Supreme Court of India, alleging 1,528 fake encounters in Manipur since the 1980s. The Court ordered investigation into six cases, all of which were <b>proved to be fake encounters</b>: killing of innocent persons, by armed forces or police commandos. The Court has ruled that all the remaining cases must be thoroughly probed. It has questioned impunity, ruling that armed forces cannot use excessive force even in areas that come under AFSPA. </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><b><span style="line-height:115%"><br></span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal"><b><span style="line-height:115%"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8vh6ZkBrZIXghh7SS99UlPBuIT-nVywR9cY8w9gs9AYbZ5IsUon_-Sil88Wvi4YLmFYYttiXQqrsDTdiKcjqbQHuQOoM_Rt2A0qtQhJ8STGsYaGTHuQFOJl8R9mhgXf8-HbT4HtdavTcE/s1600/sssc2-739227.jpg"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8vh6ZkBrZIXghh7SS99UlPBuIT-nVywR9cY8w9gs9AYbZ5IsUon_-Sil88Wvi4YLmFYYttiXQqrsDTdiKcjqbQHuQOoM_Rt2A0qtQhJ8STGsYaGTHuQFOJl8R9mhgXf8-HbT4HtdavTcE/s320/sssc2-739227.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_6316441067954367714" /></a><br><br></span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal"><b><span style="line-height:115%"><br></span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal"><b><span style="line-height:115%"> Humane, democratic solutions are needed to solve real problems</span></b><span style="line-height:115%"> faced by people; dialogue rather than repression. We stand in solidarity with democratic people's movements in Manipur, and elsewhere in the country -- being waged today by dalits, women, minorities, workers, people with disabilities, sexuality rights activists, and other marginalised sections. <b>We -- ordinary people, students, teachers, feminists, activists -- care for democracy</b> and human rights, peace and good governance, accountability and justice. <span> </span>We feel that we are all responsible for helping to bring this about. We need to listen, learn, and together search for ways to move ahead, to actually resolve many very difficult situations.<span> </span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="line-height:115%"><span><br></span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="line-height:115%"> <b> We propose 9 August 2016, as a day of reflection</b>: upon our own ethics and politics, upon freedom, justice, peace -- and hope. We will sit together that day, in quiet companionship. <b>We will sit at </b></span><b><span style="font-size:12pt;line-height:115%">Jantar Mantar -- from 2.30 to 6.30 p.m.</span></b><span style="line-height:115%"> <b>Do join!</b> We may sing some songs, read poetry, draw, sit in a circle, talk…; some may want to fast for the day, they could break their fast at 6. We would like to light candles as it gets dark. We are not planning this as a protest. Rather, <b>a moment of quiet solidarity.</b></span><br></p> <p><font size="2"><span style="line-height:115%"><span>-<span style="font-family:"Times New Roman";font-style:normal;font-weight:normal;line-height:normal;font-size-adjust:none;font-stretch:normal;font-variant:normal"> </span></span></span><span style="line-height:115%">Shanti, Deepti Priya, Runu Chakraborty, Nandini Rao, Shraddha Chikerur, Uma Chakravarthy, Ravi Nitesh, Devika Mittal, Sampurna Trust, Save Sharmila Solidarity Campaign, Ninglun Hanghal, Felix Padel, Malvika Gupta, Dhruva Narayan, Sunita Kumari ….</span></font></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:10pt;line-height:115%"><b>Please feel free to forward this to others who may be interesting in joining on the 9th. And, do bring along poetry, umbrella, mats, water, candle, posters, or anything else you'd like to share. This is a spontaneous action with no central organizing committee; your participation helps lend it meaning!</b></span></p></div> </div><br></div> </div><br></div> </div><br></div> </div><br><br clear="all"><div><br></div>-- <br><div class="gmail_signature" data-smartmail="gmail_signature"><div dir="ltr"><div>Regards,</div> <div> <img src="http://www.e-paolive.net/galleries/images/misc/2012/07/Sharmila_20120711.jpg" width="96" height="72"></div> <div><b>Save Sharmila Solidarity Campaign</b></div> <div><strong><font face="georgia, serif" size="1">(A joint initiative of various organizations & movements)</font></strong></div><div><font face="courier new, monospace" size="1"><strong>Blog: <a href="http://www.repealafspa.blogspot.com" target="_blank">www.repealafspa.blogspot.com</a> </strong></font></div><div><font face="courier new, monospace" size="1"><strong><a href="mailto:E-mail%3Asavesharmila@gmail.com" target="_blank">E-mail:savesharmila@gmail.com</a> </strong></font></div><div><font face="courier new, monospace" size="1"><strong>Facebook: Groups/savesharmilacampaign</strong></font></div> <div><font face="'Comic Sans MS'" size="1"><b><br></b></font></div> <div><strong><font size="1"></font></strong> </div> <div><font size="1">We welcome your participation/suggestion/feedbacks. </font></div></div></div> </div> Repeal AFSPAhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07952352387600992296noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5281067201459315139.post-1724495146345245102016-08-08T18:17:00.001+05:302016-08-08T18:17:55.928+05:30PRESS INVITE: 9 August, 2.30 to 6.30 p.m., at Jantar Mantar: Solidarity Action with Irom Sharmila & Democratic Movements for Justice & Peace<div dir="ltr"><div class="gmail_quote"><div dir="ltr"><div class="gmail_quote"><div dir="ltr"><div class="gmail_quote"><div dir="ltr"><b><span style="font-size:12pt;line-height:115%">9 August 2016: Marking Solidarity </span></b><br><span><span style="font-size:12pt;line-height:115%"><b><span><span style="font-size:12pt;line-height:115%"><b>2.30 to 6.30 p.m.:</b></span></span><span><span style="font-size:12pt;line-height:115%"><b> at Jantar Mantar<br></b></span></span></b></span></span><span><span style="font-size:12pt;line-height:115%"><i>We hope to reflect on our own politics and ethics... on freedom, justice, peace... democracy... with songs, poetry, music, drawings, ... Some may want to fast during the day, in solidarity with Irom Sharmila's long fast. We would light candles, before we leave, ... towards the future. <br></i></span></span><p class="MsoNormal"><b><span style="font-size:12pt;line-height:115%"><br></span></b></p><span><span style="font-size:12pt;line-height:115%"><b><br></b></span></span><p class="MsoNormal"><b><span style="font-size:12pt;line-height:115%"> </span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align:center" align="center"><b><span style="font-size:12pt;line-height:115%">9 August 2016: A Day of Reflection</span></b></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align:center" align="center"><b><span style="font-size:12pt;line-height:115%">Reaffirming Solidarity -- Towards Justice, Peace, and Hope</span></b></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12pt;line-height:115%"> To</span><span style="line-height:115%">day, Irom Sharmila makes a move towards freedom, by giving up her fast, which has lasted nearly 16 years. We feel <b>deep respect for Irom Sharmila's non-violent struggle </b>and her indomitable spirit, and support her decision to give up the fast. <b>The struggle for peace and justice will continue.</b> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="line-height:115%"> On 9 August, 1942, Mahatma Gandhi and other leaders of the <b>Quit India movement</b> were arrested. The British government promulgated the Armed Forced Special Powers Ordinance on 15 August 1942, to quell the Quit India movement. </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="line-height:115%"> The government of India promulgated<b> the Armed Forces Special Powers Act (AFSPA), </b>1958; and subsequently imposed it in several parts of the country. People in Manipur, including Imas (`mothers': elderly <b>women activists</b>), Meira Paibis (women's groups, literally women holding `mashaals'), and many civil society groups, are struggling for AFSPA to be repealed, in the interests of peace and justice. They want good governance to be restored in the state. Experts argue that the Act perpetuates violation of fundamental democratic rights. It grants excessive powers, and impunity, to armed forces. Atrocities against ordinary citizens have been documented over the years. </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="line-height:115%"> In 2012, the Extra Judicial Execution Victim Families Association (EEVFAM) filed a PIL in the Supreme Court of India, alleging 1,528 fake encounters in Manipur since the 1980s. The Court ordered investigation into six cases, all of which were <b>proved to be fake encounters</b>: killing of innocent persons, by armed forces or police commandos. The Court has ruled that all the remaining cases must be thoroughly probed. It has questioned impunity, ruling that armed forces cannot use excessive force even in areas that come under AFSPA. </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><b><span style="line-height:115%"><br></span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal"><b><span style="line-height:115%"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjun5tH4ti1Micdu2OgPV5UqCudzCku9urj0Cz416VaagUdVTVYHHbSkVIe6W2s1eP3bmxn5brsrqwsH0lLk3GagAKSxAJHbxoinqpv_wD6x-GiNKmOwSORfEDkD2WQBpRgMm31ffWQjkux/s1600/sssc2-775929.jpg"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjun5tH4ti1Micdu2OgPV5UqCudzCku9urj0Cz416VaagUdVTVYHHbSkVIe6W2s1eP3bmxn5brsrqwsH0lLk3GagAKSxAJHbxoinqpv_wD6x-GiNKmOwSORfEDkD2WQBpRgMm31ffWQjkux/s320/sssc2-775929.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_6316438649512659858" /></a><br><br></span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal"><b><span style="line-height:115%"><br></span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal"><b><span style="line-height:115%"> Humane, democratic solutions are needed to solve real problems</span></b><span style="line-height:115%"> faced by people; dialogue rather than repression. We stand in solidarity with democratic people's movements in Manipur, and elsewhere in the country -- being waged today by dalits, women, minorities, workers, people with disabilities, sexuality rights activists, and other marginalised sections. <b>We -- ordinary people, students, teachers, feminists, activists -- care for democracy</b> and human rights, peace and good governance, accountability and justice. <span> </span>We feel that we are all responsible for helping to bring this about. We need to listen, learn, and together search for ways to move ahead, to actually resolve many very difficult situations.<span> </span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="line-height:115%"><span><br></span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="line-height:115%"> <b> We propose 9 August 2016, as a day of reflection</b>: upon our own ethics and politics, upon freedom, justice, peace -- and hope. We will sit together that day, in quiet companionship. <b>We will sit at </b></span><b><span style="font-size:12pt;line-height:115%">Jantar Mantar -- from 2.30 to 6.30 p.m.</span></b><span style="line-height:115%"> <b>Do join!</b> We may sing some songs, read poetry, draw, sit in a circle, talk…; some may want to fast for the day, they could break their fast at 6. We would like to light candles as it gets dark. We are not planning this as a protest. Rather, <b>a moment of quiet solidarity.</b></span><br></p> <p><font size="2"><span style="line-height:115%"><span>-<span style="font-family:"Times New Roman";font-style:normal;font-weight:normal;line-height:normal;font-size-adjust:none;font-stretch:normal;font-variant:normal"> </span></span></span><span style="line-height:115%">Shanti, Deepti Priya, Runu Chakraborty, Nandini Rao, Shraddha Chikerur, Uma Chakravarthy, Ravi Nitesh, Devika Mittal, Sampurna Trust, Save Sharmila Solidarity Campaign, Ninglun Hanghal, Felix Padel, Malvika Gupta, Dhruva Narayan, Sunita Kumari ….</span></font></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:10pt;line-height:115%"><b>Please feel free to forward this to others who may be interesting in joining on the 9th. And, do bring along poetry, umbrella, mats, water, candle, posters, or anything else you'd like to share. This is a spontaneous action with no central organizing committee; your participation helps lend it meaning!</b></span></p></div> </div><br></div> </div><br></div> </div><br></div> Repeal AFSPAhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07952352387600992296noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5281067201459315139.post-62804769226309621752016-07-26T22:27:00.001+05:302016-07-26T22:27:24.633+05:30PRESS RELEASE: A WELCOME MOVE BY IROM SHARMILA: SSSC<div dir="ltr"><div><span style="font-size:12.8px"><b><u>A WELCOME MOVE BY IROM SHARMILA: SSSC </u></b></span></div><span style="font-size:12.8px"><div><span style="font-size:12.8px"><br></span></div><div><span style="font-size:12.8px">New Delhi, 27 July 2016</span></div><div><span style="font-size:12.8px"><br></span></div>Save sharmila Solidarity Campaign welcomes decision of Irom Sharmila to break her fast in coming days. SSSC believes that it is a befitting reply to Government's ignorance of her sixteen years of fast where an extra ordinary example of non violent appeal was made with the govt with demand to repeal AFSPA, but government not only ignored it and even tried to suppress it through lodging criminal cases against Sharmila.</span><div><span style="font-size:12.8px"> </span><br style="font-size:12.8px"><span style="font-size:12.8px">SSSC knows about how Sharmila always told that she is just a common person without having any desire to be remembered as hero or to idolise her, but support and love of people recognised her for her extra ordinary struggle. This extra ordinary struggle also shows that how any common person with his/her commitment towards people's welfare , can pave the way of future. </span></div><div><br style="font-size:12.8px"><span style="font-size:12.8px">This time, there is a strong need to believe that coming in mainstream life will break the prison walls for irom sharmila and she would be able to live a life along with her contribution in struggle of people with all her capacity. What she are leaving behind will always be in history books of human rights and non violence. </span></div><div><br style="font-size:12.8px"><span style="font-size:12.8px">SSSC observes that by this move to announce breaking her fast shows that proof of failure of elected government of state and centre who never tried to meet her and to work on her demand. For a country like India, fast of Irom Sharmila was already a highlighted one and was seen as shameful for government and now when it is clear that government has not even moved an inch on this issue, Sharmila's decision to leave the struggle kept the blame upon government. </span></div><div><span style="font-size:12.8px"><br></span></div><div><span style="font-size:12.8px">Struggle of repealing AFSPA is struggle of people and must be fought by people together. Non violence should be the way and utilising democratic resources may be proved efficient in the struggle. </span></div><div><br></div><div>As after breaking her fast, she would be free from criminal charges legally and SSSC is hopeful that she would be allowed to exercise her right of movement, SSSC would be honoured to invite her in Delhi for her first public lecture after consultation with her. An all India delegation of SSSC would soon visit her in coming month. </div><div><br></div><div><span style="font-size:12.8px">SSSC believes and demands that AFSPA must be repealed soon from all areas of North East and J&K. Save Sharmila Campaign will continue its struggle till Repeal of AFSPA from all areas. </span></div><div><span style="font-size:12.8px"><br></span></div><div><span style="font-size:12.8px">Ravi Nitesh</span></div><div><span style="font-size:12.8px">Convener</span></div><div><span style="font-size:12.8px">Save Sharmila Solidarity Campaign </span></div><div><span style="font-size:12.8px">Contact: +91-9958907799 ; <a href="mailto:ravinitesh@gmail.com">ravinitesh@gmail.com</a> </span></div><div><span style="font-size:12.8px"><br></span></div><div><span style="font-size:12.8px"><br></span></div><div><span style="font-size:12.8px;text-align:justify">Ram Mohan Rai (Haryana), Zaheeb Ajmal (Bihar), Md. Tanveer (Karnataka), Jaychandran Ramchandran (Kerla), Devika (Delhi), Gufran Khan (U.P.), , Arvind Lodi (M.P.), Subhojit (West Bengal), Guddi Behen (Maharashtra), Deepak Joshi (Assam) and other members from J&K and North East states </span><span style="font-size:12.8px"><br></span></div><div><span style="font-size:12.8px"><br clear="all"></span><div><br></div>-- <br><div class="gmail_signature"><div dir="ltr"><div>Regards,</div> <div> <img src="http://www.e-paolive.net/galleries/images/misc/2012/07/Sharmila_20120711.jpg" width="96" height="72"></div> <div><b>Save Sharmila Solidarity Campaign</b></div> <div><strong><font face="georgia, serif" size="1">(A joint initiative of various organizations & movements)</font></strong></div><div><font face="courier new, monospace" size="1"><strong>Blog: <a href="http://www.repealafspa.blogspot.com" target="_blank">www.repealafspa.blogspot.com</a> </strong></font></div><div><font face="courier new, monospace" size="1"><strong><a href="mailto:E-mail%3Asavesharmila@gmail.com" target="_blank">E-mail:savesharmila@gmail.com</a> </strong></font></div><div><font face="courier new, monospace" size="1"><strong>Facebook: Groups/savesharmilacampaign</strong></font></div> <div><font face="'Comic Sans MS'" size="1"><b><br></b></font></div> <div><strong><font size="1"></font></strong> </div> <div><font size="1">We welcome your participation/suggestion/feedbacks. </font></div></div></div> </div></div> Repeal AFSPAhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07952352387600992296noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5281067201459315139.post-44279290786037891842016-07-13T08:12:00.001+05:302016-07-13T22:41:44.874+05:30PRESS RELEASE ‘APEX COURT DECISION: A PARTIAL VICTORY OF DEMOCRATIC STRUGGLE’ - SSSC<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<b><u><span style="font-size: 13pt; line-height: 115%;">'APEX COURT DECISION: A PARTIAL VICTORY OF DEMOCRATIC STRUGGLE' - SSSC</span></u></b></div>
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With the recent decision (interim judgment) of Supreme Court of India in the case of EEVFAM (Extra Judicial Killing Victim Families Association of Manipur) as petitioner 1 and Human Rights Alert as petitioner2 Vs Union of India, a strong signal has been sent by the Hon'ble Court about 'Equality before Law' and 'No one is above law'. It also strengthens the trust of people in the various forms of democratic struggle. </div>
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Save Sharmila Solidarity Campaign (SSSC) welcomes the wordings of the hon'ble court and believe that this will be seen as 'standard' by the government and presently deployed security forces in various disturb areas of north east and elsewhere. SSSC also see that despite the long (and often unsuccessful) struggle of various organizations, victims and human rights practitioners in various cases, the spirit of struggle through peaceful and democratic ways has brought such a ray of hope that not only relevant with the case filed (of 1528 extra judicial killings) but also with so many other cases (reported and unreported) and stories as such judgments bring a sense of understanding and it builds trust of common people in pillars of democracy. </div>
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SSSC also see that how this decision should also be read in contrast with the decision of Garo Hills where court has insisted 'to impose AFSPA' on Garo Hills as remedial measure. Here in decision of Supreme Court, it is very well quoted that deployment of army cannot be for indefinite time. </div>
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SSSC welcomes thoughtful words of Hon'ble court about the worry for kin of victims if they are entitled to have any rights other than receipt of monetary compensation. Quoting about 'Right to Truth' from 62nd session of Human Rights Commission by UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, court observes that it is well associated in this case of extra judicial killings, and by this way, the apex court seems to have international standards on human rights issues that also gives positive signals for Indian democracy. </div>
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With the list of 1528 cases of alleged extra judicial killings, 62 among them have been elaborated with all details and 10 among them have been specifically referred to court as eye witnesses for them were also available. It was also appealed with the court that FIRs were not registered by police despite several complaints against armed forces. It is truly appealed in the petition that even Human Rights Commission in Manipur is non operational.</div>
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SSSC welcome that court has taken cognizance and cleared much of ambiguities through its interim decision. SSSC see it as partial victory of people who are struggling for human rights and democracy in peaceful ways in North East. SSSC believe that a widespread coverage of this judgment also reflects about how non violent ways actually brings the real change in democratic process that not only affect those who are doing struggle but also set a precedent for future. </div>
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'We also believe that in its final decision , court will ask for SIT (Special Investigation Team) for all these cases to get investigated and to make sure punishment for those who were involved in extra judicial killings. We see that Ministry of Home Affairs and Ministry of Defence must also welcome it and this decision may pave the way for Govt of India to review and revoke AFSPA as well as to start giving sanctions for prosecuting security personal under civilian laws in case of complaints filed against them. '</div>
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SSSC takes it inspiration from all such peaceful efforts and also appeal Government of India to initiate meaningful dialogue with Irom Sharmila,who is in 16<sup>th</sup> year of her hunger protest and has adopted peaceful mean of struggle but that is largely ignored by government. </div>
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SSSC is writing to all political parties to extend support for Irom Sharmila and to ask government to take steps in this regard. SSSC also initiating next phase of its campaign to repeal AFSPA. </div>
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Ram Mohan Rai (Haryana), Zaheeb Ajmal (Bihar), Md. Tanveer (Karnataka), Jaychandran Ramchandran (Kerla), Devika (Delhi), Gufran Khan (U.P.), , Arvind Lodi (M.P.), Guddi Behen (Maharashtra), Deepak Joshi (Assam) and other members from J&K and North East states </div>
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<b>Save Sharmila Solidarity Campaign</b></div>
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<strong><span style="font-family: georgia, serif; font-size: xx-small;">(A joint initiative of various organizations & movements)</span></strong></div>
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<span style="font-family: courier new, monospace; font-size: xx-small;"><strong>Blog: <a href="http://www.repealafspa.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">www.repealafspa.blogspot.com</a> </strong></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: courier new, monospace; font-size: xx-small;"><strong><a href="mailto:E-mail%3Asavesharmila@gmail.com" target="_blank">E-mail:savesharmila@gmail.com</a> </strong><strong>Facebook: Groups/savesharmilacampaign</strong></span></div>
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Repeal AFSPAhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07952352387600992296noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5281067201459315139.post-13146234599794445432016-03-30T23:45:00.001+05:302016-03-30T23:45:48.212+05:30PRESS RELEASE: SSSC Demands for Action from Govt of India<div dir="ltr"><div><b><br></b></div><div><b>PRESS RELEASE: SSSC Demands for Action from Govt of India </b></div><div><br></div><div>New Delhi , 31 March 2016</div><div><br></div>Save Sharmila Solidarity Campaign (SSSC) welcomes the judgement of Hon'ble Delhi Court that acquitted Irom Sharmila in the case of 'Attempt to suicide' running in session court against her in the incident of her 2006 hunger strike where she sat on fast at Jantar Mantar, New Delhi after offering tribute to Mahatma Gandhi. <div><br></div><div>A similar case is also registered in Imphal, Manipur and Sharmila has been kept isolated and in prison under the same charges. It is when, Sharmila has been acquitted several times by courts in Imphal, but she has been arrested again there (in Imphal) as she continued her strike after acquittal.<div><br></div><div>SSSC see this like a traditional remedy for government's careless approach where though judiciary freed her but government detained her all the times under similar charges without listening her. </div><div><br></div><div>SSSC believe that though Sharmila is very patient and hopeful towards Indian government and even in the past, she always told that she has faith in democracy and non violence, it seems that ignorance of government is intentional. It is really strange and even cruel that despite the desire of Irom Sharmila of meeting Prime Minister of India, this highest post of democracy is not even giving any attention to it. This is despite the fact that Sharmila's struggle was also ignored by previous governments and the same policy is continued with the present. </div><div><br></div><div>SSSC see that such a long struggle of 16 years that deserve all the respect has been ignored by world;s largest democracy. It is mo\re unfortunate that though Sharmila's movement is a non violent one, no efforts was done by government to negotiate or even to talk with her. SSSC also see that 16 years is such a long time for any protest and this is high time when Government must start taking positive action towards it. </div><div><br></div><div>SSSC will continue its struggle to demand for Repeal of AFSPA from all religions, but at the same time, it also appeals with government of India to listen Irom Sharmila and to start talk with her. We also appeal Prime Minister of India to find some time for this Iron Lady of Manipur who is one of the most respected and prominent women of the globe and a symbol of courage and determination. </div></div><div><br></div><div><br></div><div>s/d </div><div><br></div><div>Ravi Nitesh</div><div>Convener</div><div>Save Sharmila Solidarity Campaign (SSSC)</div><div><br></div><div><br></div><div><br></div>-- <br><div class="gmail_signature"><div dir="ltr"><div>Regards,</div> <div> <img src="http://www.e-paolive.net/galleries/images/misc/2012/07/Sharmila_20120711.jpg" width="96" height="72"></div> <div><b>Save Sharmila Solidarity Campaign</b></div> <div><strong><font face="georgia, serif" size="1">(A joint initiative of various organizations & movements)</font></strong></div><div><font face="courier new, monospace" size="1"><strong>Blog: <a href="http://www.repealafspa.blogspot.com" target="_blank">www.repealafspa.blogspot.com</a> </strong></font></div><div><font face="courier new, monospace" size="1"><strong><a href="mailto:E-mail%3Asavesharmila@gmail.com" target="_blank">E-mail:savesharmila@gmail.com</a> </strong><strong>Facebook: Groups/savesharmilacampaign</strong></font></div> <div><font face="'Comic Sans MS'" size="1"><b><br></b></font></div> <div><strong><font size="1"></font></strong> </div> <div><font size="1">We welcome your participation/suggestion/feedbacks. </font></div></div></div> </div> Repeal AFSPAhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07952352387600992296noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5281067201459315139.post-83853705243600300672015-11-05T20:51:00.000+05:302015-11-05T20:52:18.526+05:30AFSPA CONVENTION: DELHI: 1 Nov 2015: A REPORT<div dir="ltr"><div><div class="gmail_signature"><div dir="ltr"><div dir="ltr"><div dir="ltr"><div dir="ltr"><div dir="ltr"><div dir="ltr"><div dir="ltr"><div dir="ltr"><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_T2hq8u6g9FHfAwGL8JcIbAfnyFZmCKsCPUyD4wkU2dqsBBGjftfy48En7QXU6UX0c_fhxVyT1tzZRQaVWkNZKBORf2i5qWxH6tHuk2W5b8j5R9BHnzAeyFMrvjlc-Xd73VTN8CGGZ38S/s1600/c-738528.jpg"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_T2hq8u6g9FHfAwGL8JcIbAfnyFZmCKsCPUyD4wkU2dqsBBGjftfy48En7QXU6UX0c_fhxVyT1tzZRQaVWkNZKBORf2i5qWxH6tHuk2W5b8j5R9BHnzAeyFMrvjlc-Xd73VTN8CGGZ38S/s320/c-738528.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_6213687837125257506" /></a><br><br></div><div><p class=""><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:Cambria,serif">Published at: </span></p> <p class=""><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:Cambria,serif"> </span></p> <p class=""><a href="http://www.dnaindia.com/india/report-irom-sharmila-completes-15-years-of-a-hunger-fast-2141032"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:Cambria,serif">DNA</span></a><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:Cambria,serif"> , </span><a href="http://www.kashmirtimes.com/newsdet.aspx?q=46431"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:Cambria,serif">Kashmir Times</span></a><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:Cambria,serif"> , </span><a href="http://www.countercurrents.org/pr021115.htm"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:Cambria,serif">Counter Currents</span></a><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:Cambria,serif"> , </span><a href="http://www.thecitizen.in/NewsDetail.aspx?Id=5697&Call/to/Repeal/AFSPA/Marks/Irom/Sharmila%E2%80%99s/15/Years/On/Fast"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:Cambria,serif">The Citizen</span></a><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:Cambria,serif"> , </span><a href="http://www.tehelka.com/2015/11/sharmilas-hunger-strike-to-repeal-afspa-enters-16th-year/"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:Cambria,serif">Tehelka</span></a><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:Cambria,serif"> , </span><a href="http://twocircles.net/2015nov02/1446479564.html#.VjjJfdIrJkg"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:Cambria,serif">Two Circles</span></a><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:Cambria,serif"> , </span><a href="http://www.easternmirrornagaland.com/delhi-convention-voices-against-afspa/"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:Cambria,serif">Eastern Mirror</span></a><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:Cambria,serif"> , </span><a href="http://e-pao.net/GP.asp?src=14..021115.nov15"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:Cambria,serif">E-Pao</span></a><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:Cambria,serif"> , </span><a href="http://www.assamtimes.org/node/15717"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:Cambria,serif">Assam Times</span></a><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:Cambria,serif"> , </span><a href="http://www.thesangaiexpress.com/page/items/58928/convention-on-afspa-held-in-delhi"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:Cambria,serif">Sangai Express</span></a><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:Cambria,serif"> , </span><a href="http://www.hueiyenlanpao.com/page/items/36553/delhi-convention-against-afspa-held"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:Cambria,serif">Hueiyenlanpao</span></a><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:Cambria,serif"> , </span><a href="http://thecompanion.in/convention-on-repeal-afspa-15-years-of-hunger-strike/"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:Cambria,serif">The Companion</span></a><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:Cambria,serif"> , </span><a href="http://morungexpress.com/15-years-of-fighting-against-the-afspa/"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:Cambria,serif">Morung Express</span></a><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:Cambria,serif"> , </span><a href="http://meghalayatimes.info/index.php/front-page/32061-irom-sharmila-completes-15-years-of-hunger-strike-against-afspa"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:Cambria,serif">Meghalaytimes</span></a><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:Cambria,serif"></span></p> <p class=""><a href="http://www.greaterkashmir.com/news/national/story/200466.html"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:Cambria,serif">Greater Kashmir</span></a><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:Cambria,serif"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0.0001pt;text-align:justify;background-image:initial;background-repeat:initial"><b><u><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:Cambria,serif"><span style="text-decoration:none"> </span></span></u></b></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0.0001pt;text-align:justify;background-image:initial;background-repeat:initial"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:Cambria,serif">A convention on Repeal AFSPA (Armed Forces Special Powers Act) was organized here on 1<sup>st</sup> November at New Delhi today with the objective to bring demand of Repeal AFSPA in political priorities. This convention was organized in view of its importance as IromSharmila, better known as Iron lady of Manipur is completing 15 years of her hunger strike with the demand to Repeal AFSPA.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0.0001pt;text-align:justify;background-image:initial;background-repeat:initial"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:Cambria,serif"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0.0001pt;text-align:justify;background-image:initial;background-repeat:initial"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:Cambria,serif">Convention was attended by various eminent speakers that includes Neingulo Krom (Secretary General of Naga Peoples' Movement for Human Rights), Babloo Loitongbam (Human Rights Activist from Manipur), Swami Agnivesh , Prof Nandini Sundar, Prof Deepti Priya Mehrotra , Ashok Agrwaal and others. Youths and other activists also attended the convention in large numbers and extended their support towards the cause.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0.0001pt;text-align:justify;background-image:initial;background-repeat:initial"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:Cambria,serif">This convention was organized by Save Sharmila Solidarity Campaign (SSSC), Association for Protection of Civil Rights (APCR), Students Islamic Organisation (SIO), Bonded Labour Liberation Front, Just Peace Foundation (JPF), Forum Asia and Human Rights Alert. Those who participated also signed sheets to endorse the demand of Repeal AFSPA from all regions (North east and J&K) and release of IromSharmila. Father Denzil delivered his welcome note in start of convention.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0.0001pt;text-align:justify;background-image:initial;background-repeat:initial"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:Cambria,serif"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0.0001pt;text-align:justify;background-image:initial;background-repeat:initial"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:Cambria,serif;background-image:initial;background-repeat:initial">A short film presented by the Extra Judicial Execution Victims Families' Association (EEVFAM) said that in 2012 they had present 1528 cases of killings by the armed forces in Manipur, to the Supreme Court. The apex court picked six cases at random to be investigated and found the army version to be false. The film said that since these cases reached the court, the number of extra judicial killings came down from 500 in a year to 2 in 2013. However, there is concern that if the court does not expedite the other cases, the killings could go back to their former frequency. Families and witnesses, too, need to be protected and rehabilitated, as the film showed the widow of a man slain by the army talking about the pressure the latter was putting on her to withdraw the case.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0.0001pt;text-align:justify;background-image:initial;background-repeat:initial"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:Cambria,serif"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0.0001pt;text-align:justify;background-image:initial;background-repeat:initial"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:Cambria,serif">IromSharmila, a woman from Manipur is completing 15 years of her hunger protest on 2<sup>nd</sup> Nov. She is observing fast as a form of protest since the year 2000 (when she was about 28 years old), and she had started it just after Malom massacre where Assam rifles had fired upon local civilians who were waiting at a bus stand in Malom, Imphal (Manipur) and all were killed. Irom decided to register her protest because incidents of torture and killings were common in Manipur and in the veil of the powers under AFSPA,nothing could be done against culprit security personals. Iromsharmila started her fast and did not leave it since then. She has only demand, Repeal AFSPA, as it is AFSPA that is main culprit , because it provides extra ordinary powers to security personals to operate in Manipur and other such areas and these powers have been misused widely.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0.0001pt;text-align:justify;background-image:initial;background-repeat:initial"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:Cambria,serif"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0.0001pt;text-align:justify;background-image:initial;background-repeat:initial"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:Cambria,serif">AFSPA has provisions of shoot to kill mere on probability, but it does not stop here, instead it goes beyond and says that no case can be lodged against any security personals without pre sanction from central government. Sadly, in all such years, no approval was given by central government and despite hundreds of reported cases of fake killings, torture and rapes, nothing could be done to punish culprits.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0.0001pt;text-align:justify;background-image:initial;background-repeat:initial"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:Cambria,serif"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0.0001pt;text-align:justify;background-image:initial;background-repeat:initial"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:Cambria,serif">As, IromSharmila did not leave her fast, Manipur police registered a case against her under section 309 of 'attempt to suicide' and put her in jail. During her release from jail for a day in 2006, IromSharmila came to Delhi, paid tribute to Mahatma Gandhi at Rajghat and later joined a fast at JantarMantar. Delhi Police also registered another case under same section of attempt to suicide here in Delhi and matter went to court. Presently, IromSharmila is under arrest by Manipur police and living her life in security ward of JLN hospital of Manipur. The case in Delhi also, is still going on and IromSharmila appears before Delhi court on court notices and when Manipur government becomes ready to produce her at Delhi.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0.0001pt;text-align:justify;background-image:initial;background-repeat:initial"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:Cambria,serif"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0.0001pt;text-align:justify;background-image:initial;background-repeat:initial"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:Cambria,serif">Despite her fast since last 15 years and government's ignorance, even suppression through lodging her behind bars, did not break her faith in democracy or non violence. She always smiles, and tells , 'I have faith in democracy. Government will listen one day'</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0.0001pt;text-align:justify;background-image:initial;background-repeat:initial"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:Cambria,serif"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0.0001pt;text-align:justify;background-image:initial;background-repeat:initial"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:Cambria,serif">Sadly, government is not listening, and even one of her demand to meet Prime Minister Narendra Modi has not been accepted yet. She thinks Prime Minister does not want to meet her as probably government has no reply for all her demands and questions about suppression of people through AFSPA.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0.0001pt;text-align:justify;background-image:initial;background-repeat:initial"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:Cambria,serif"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0.0001pt;text-align:justify;background-image:initial;background-repeat:initial"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:Cambria,serif">This act, AFSPA as one of the most draconian one that is not only dangerous to people, but even damage the reputation of security forces and of world's largest democracy that is advocating for UNSC seat.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0.0001pt;text-align:justify;background-image:initial;background-repeat:initial"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:Cambria,serif"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0.0001pt;text-align:justify;background-image:initial;background-repeat:initial"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:Cambria,serif">Govt's own committees have recommended to repeal this act. Even many fake killings, rapes and cases of disappearances were not only reported but even proved, but till now govt has not repealed this act. Many national and international human rights organizations also raising their voice to demand to repeal this act. State leadership of BJP in Manipur and PDP in J&K had favored to repeal of this act, but now they are silent.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0.0001pt;text-align:justify;background-image:initial;background-repeat:initial"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:Cambria,serif"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0.0001pt;text-align:justify;background-image:initial;background-repeat:initial"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:Cambria,serif">Neingulo Krome , Secretary General of NPMHR said "AFSPA is a violation of Human Rights and if India is truly a democratic country then this Act should be removed immediately. He also described about cases that are before Supreme Court against human rights violations"</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0.0001pt;text-align:justify;background-image:initial;background-repeat:initial"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:Cambria,serif"><br></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0.0001pt;text-align:justify;background-image:initial;background-repeat:initial"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:Cambria,serif"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRSdHuJfoGRyDvdgujU1wf9TkZcaWp-UjX0jtefZXI8uR3JH2pdpDqbzOREEDKSaSMSJ-dHv5tyKshFe_nHxExxYBJ2gY941zya9WCGr_O6ZhqoTu1oF48rY8o2mw1lnnfwGJ7LaHVF9-p/s1600/Neingulo-Krome-NPMHR-1024x684-740258.jpg"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRSdHuJfoGRyDvdgujU1wf9TkZcaWp-UjX0jtefZXI8uR3JH2pdpDqbzOREEDKSaSMSJ-dHv5tyKshFe_nHxExxYBJ2gY941zya9WCGr_O6ZhqoTu1oF48rY8o2mw1lnnfwGJ7LaHVF9-p/s320/Neingulo-Krome-NPMHR-1024x684-740258.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_6213687843952143234" /></a><br></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0.0001pt;text-align:justify;background-image:initial;background-repeat:initial"><span style="font-family:Cambria,serif;font-size:12pt">Babloo Loitongbam , a human rights activist from Manipur emphasized that this law has no place in a democratic country like India. This process needs to stop because it violates democracy to its core. He also said that we need to move our struggle in such a way that we should be able to celebrate IromSharmila's victory in her struggle and even if Govt of India accepts her demand, it will be a victory of govt itself as it will send a message that govt respects for human rights. </span><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:Cambria,serif"><br></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0.0001pt;text-align:justify;background-image:initial;background-repeat:initial"><span style="font-family:Cambria,serif;font-size:12pt"><br></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0.0001pt;text-align:justify;background-image:initial;background-repeat:initial"><span style="font-family:Cambria,serif;font-size:12pt"><br></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0.0001pt;text-align:justify;background-image:initial;background-repeat:initial"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:Cambria,serif">Swami Agnivesh said he will lender all his support to the youth of this country in this struggle to repeal AFSPA from J&K and the North Eastern states of India. He also said that it is painful to see that religious groups raise voice when something happen to any member of their religion, but why don't they speak upon such isues where laws like AFSPA are violating human rights with all acceptance and permission by govt. Are not speaking for these acts are also a thing that religion should call for.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0.0001pt;text-align:justify;background-image:initial;background-repeat:initial"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:Cambria,serif"></span></p></div><div><br></div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhf4-gI66hcU8plgVSUjECro19XogbyqQSvLqvvZUTe_-NDA7yFXdHkQlE856X-xP1r6q-RwPRoZpIFAjFdqPPE41-JTtgYgzOEPPnKulJR4yJ1e5bSqY189m9QwUg89xBmb6AY35CRgM1K/s1600/_DSC1655-742309.JPG"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhf4-gI66hcU8plgVSUjECro19XogbyqQSvLqvvZUTe_-NDA7yFXdHkQlE856X-xP1r6q-RwPRoZpIFAjFdqPPE41-JTtgYgzOEPPnKulJR4yJ1e5bSqY189m9QwUg89xBmb6AY35CRgM1K/s320/_DSC1655-742309.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_6213687852276318562" /></a><br><br></div><div><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0.0001pt;text-align:justify;background-image:initial;background-repeat:initial"><br></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0.0001pt;text-align:justify;background-image:initial;background-repeat:initial"><br></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0.0001pt;text-align:justify;background-image:initial;background-repeat:initial"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:Cambria,serif;background-image:initial;background-repeat:initial"><br></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0.0001pt;text-align:justify;background-image:initial;background-repeat:initial"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:Cambria,serif;background-image:initial;background-repeat:initial"></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0.0001pt;text-align:justify;background-image:initial;background-repeat:initial"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:Cambria,serif">Prof Deepti Priya Mehrotra, who has also written a book on IromSharmilatitled 'Burning Bright'said, "Sharmila is the voice of ordinary people. Let the 21<sup>st</sup> century be the century of Sharmila." She also emphasized that it is only through solidarity that different voices are joined together and this is the only way in which we can stand up and fight for it. </span><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:Cambria,serif;background-image:initial;background-repeat:initial">she practices non-violence "philosophically" not strategically. Her's is the declaration that life cannot be lived unless the state accords an equal right to life to all its citizens, said Mehrotra.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0.0001pt;text-align:justify;background-image:initial;background-repeat:initial"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:Cambria,serif;background-image:initial;background-repeat:initial"><br></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0.0001pt;text-align:justify;background-image:initial;background-repeat:initial"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:Cambria,serif;background-image:initial;background-repeat:initial"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAt9isF8udTMbxvWqliQ9Sr-a2z-lkVMTY9-rIOg60wv8E8dRyxIxKv86H16CjhfsvLKm-AS_ZMaPImP7Imdore5cnZysKJ1eCtVeNDKfj9FO7bv1ilHs1GcpWGce0kYDwz3V2j6LokTkH/s1600/_DSC1730-744334.JPG"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAt9isF8udTMbxvWqliQ9Sr-a2z-lkVMTY9-rIOg60wv8E8dRyxIxKv86H16CjhfsvLKm-AS_ZMaPImP7Imdore5cnZysKJ1eCtVeNDKfj9FO7bv1ilHs1GcpWGce0kYDwz3V2j6LokTkH/s320/_DSC1730-744334.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_6213687863349504754" /></a><br><br></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0.0001pt;text-align:justify;background-image:initial;background-repeat:initial"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:Cambria,serif;background-image:initial;background-repeat:initial"><br></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0.0001pt;text-align:justify;background-image:initial;background-repeat:initial"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:Cambria,serif;background-image:initial;background-repeat:initial"><span style="font-size:12pt">Prof Nandini Sundar talked about the Irom Sharmila Scholarships started by Delhi University three years ago and how to make them more effective. </span><span style="font-size:12pt;background-image:initial;background-repeat:initial">She<span class=""> </span>read out the testimonies of two anonymous students who had applied for the<span class=""> </span>scholarship–for students from AFSPA affected areas–a man from Manipur, and a woman from Kashmir. Both accounts spoke of coming terrifyingly close to death at the army's hands, and its impact on one's mind.</span><br></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0.0001pt;text-align:justify;background-image:initial;background-repeat:initial"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:Cambria,serif;background-image:initial;background-repeat:initial"><br></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0.0001pt;text-align:justify;background-image:initial;background-repeat:initial"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:Cambria,serif;background-image:initial;background-repeat:initial"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUNtaClET9fAHjN6cvvHfKEDqjslTZepiykT2rnpVEK1OhxXx_V08Lnd37gWduI2x61oJHUhlxzEqW5YgVlJftBRzlCumTD25-kGgEu07l59Zhj0LuEAXkl57HyT0CHaX32AgA8HKAZUph/s1600/Prof-Nandini-Sundar-1024x684-746153.jpg"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUNtaClET9fAHjN6cvvHfKEDqjslTZepiykT2rnpVEK1OhxXx_V08Lnd37gWduI2x61oJHUhlxzEqW5YgVlJftBRzlCumTD25-kGgEu07l59Zhj0LuEAXkl57HyT0CHaX32AgA8HKAZUph/s320/Prof-Nandini-Sundar-1024x684-746153.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_6213687869699524354" /></a></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0.0001pt;text-align:justify;background-image:initial;background-repeat:initial"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:Cambria,serif;background-image:initial;background-repeat:initial"><span style="font-size:12pt"><br></span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0.0001pt;text-align:justify;background-image:initial;background-repeat:initial"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:Cambria,serif;background-image:initial;background-repeat:initial"><span style="font-size:12pt">Prof Sanjoy Hazarika described about how this struggle is all about 15 years of Irom Sharmila, 10 years of Jeevan Reddy Committee and many others and therefore we must see that something is happening about which we all need to be concerned upon. Sanjoy also said that future strategies should be developed and AFSPA is required to be repealed. He </span><span style="font-size:12pt;background-image:initial;background-repeat:initial">elaborated this psychological impact, talking about generations living with trauma and mental health problems wherever there was AFSPA. What was telling was the absolute lack of medical help available to these people.</span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0.0001pt;text-align:justify;background-image:initial;background-repeat:initial"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:Cambria,serif;background-image:initial;background-repeat:initial"><span style="font-size:12pt;background-image:initial;background-repeat:initial"><br></span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0.0001pt;text-align:justify;background-image:initial;background-repeat:initial"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:Cambria,serif"></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0.0001pt;text-align:justify;background-image:initial;background-repeat:initial"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:Cambria,serif;background-image:initial;background-repeat:initial"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjj0vKPfFTqYan2MU85NUvEu9m62BFxeBN7DoV7jsBX6oFP_VCedzt62cg7l7zrkm96eU3HIg4fX17tRybnVkjMZFplw_3Pqchghtddmkv923ClodMFD0VTRa0IgwL8JZ0TNHWoPqZyMjZ9/s1600/Prof-Sanjoy-Hazarika-1-620x350-747561.jpg"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjj0vKPfFTqYan2MU85NUvEu9m62BFxeBN7DoV7jsBX6oFP_VCedzt62cg7l7zrkm96eU3HIg4fX17tRybnVkjMZFplw_3Pqchghtddmkv923ClodMFD0VTRa0IgwL8JZ0TNHWoPqZyMjZ9/s320/Prof-Sanjoy-Hazarika-1-620x350-747561.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_6213687873721963090" /></a><br><br></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0.0001pt;text-align:justify;background-image:initial;background-repeat:initial"></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0.0001pt;text-align:justify;background-image:initial;background-repeat:initial"></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0.0001pt;text-align:justify;background-image:initial;background-repeat:initial"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:Cambria,serif;background-image:initial;background-repeat:initial"><br></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0.0001pt;text-align:justify;background-image:initial;background-repeat:initial"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:Cambria,serif">From APCR, Kashif Ahmed Faraz feels, 'People are now much aware of this issue and are coming up to fight for it. But we shouldn't stop here. We should continue spreading awareness about it…"</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0.0001pt;text-align:justify;background-image:initial;background-repeat:initial"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:Cambria,serif"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0.0001pt;text-align:justify;background-image:initial;background-repeat:initial"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:Cambria,serif"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0.0001pt;text-align:justify;background-image:initial;background-repeat:initial"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:Cambria,serif">Laeeq Ahmed Khan from SIO said these laws have multidimensional effect.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0.0001pt;text-align:justify;background-image:initial;background-repeat:initial"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:Cambria,serif"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0.0001pt;text-align:justify;background-image:initial;background-repeat:initial"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:Cambria,serif">Raghu Menon from Forum Asia told that forum Asia is always in support of struggles for Human Rights and we have already extended our support to IromSharmila and we will continue to raise voice though all possible means.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0.0001pt;text-align:justify;background-image:initial;background-repeat:initial"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:Cambria,serif"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0.0001pt;text-align:justify;background-image:initial;background-repeat:initial"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:Cambria,serif"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhveuXP4NFFXJ78vv2oP9M1Vglhri58DNu9PWQbmrMsUk569Oh1WJd6KXb8nnJQ_UtcbRuUm4jRARP63HUQOKemrJWpFAFtbX4kzzEMHnJhpoxkSYOD5zlsvRgDTidq0bNjuyfR8MCbe6uv/s1600/Henry-Forum-Asia-1024x684-748707.jpg"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhveuXP4NFFXJ78vv2oP9M1Vglhri58DNu9PWQbmrMsUk569Oh1WJd6KXb8nnJQ_UtcbRuUm4jRARP63HUQOKemrJWpFAFtbX4kzzEMHnJhpoxkSYOD5zlsvRgDTidq0bNjuyfR8MCbe6uv/s320/Henry-Forum-Asia-1024x684-748707.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_6213687878046932834" /></a><br></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0.0001pt;text-align:justify;background-image:initial;background-repeat:initial"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:Cambria,serif"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0.0001pt;text-align:justify;background-image:initial;background-repeat:initial"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:Cambria,serif;background-image:initial;background-repeat:initial"><span style="font-size:12pt">Henri Triphange, chairperson of Forum Asia also joined the convention and expressed his solidarity on behalf of organization.</span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0.0001pt;text-align:justify;background-image:initial;background-repeat:initial"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:Cambria,serif;background-image:initial;background-repeat:initial"><br></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0.0001pt;text-align:justify;background-image:initial;background-repeat:initial"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:Cambria,serif">The session was concluded by Ravi Nitesh who said that he has seen a lot of change in these fifteen years. Earlier only the North East people were fighting for it but now more and more people from all over the country are standing up in support of IromSharmila.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0.0001pt;text-align:justify;background-image:initial;background-repeat:initial"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:Cambria,serif"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0.0001pt;text-align:justify;background-image:initial;background-repeat:initial"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:Cambria,serif">At the end, it was announced that demand to repeal AFSPA is a collective struggle and demand that is very much required to protect human rights as well as democratic values. It was announced that this full week is being observed in solidarity with 15 years of struggle of IromSharmila nationwide and at many places protests are happening. It was also told that in coming months, this movement will bring more voices together and will start a big movement to demand Repeal AFSPA.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0.0001pt;text-align:justify;background-image:initial;background-repeat:initial"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:Cambria,serif"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0.0001pt;text-align:justify;background-image:initial;background-repeat:initial"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:Cambria,serif"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0.0001pt;text-align:justify;background-image:initial;background-repeat:initial"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:Cambria,serif"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style="margin-bottom:0.0001pt;text-align:center;background-image:initial;background-repeat:initial"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:Cambria,serif">_______________________________________________________________________________________</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style="margin-bottom:0.0001pt;text-align:center;background-image:initial;background-repeat:initial"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:Cambria,serif">Issued by :Organising Group- Convention on Repeal AFSPA</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style="margin-bottom:0.0001pt;text-align:center;background-image:initial;background-repeat:initial"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:Cambria,serif"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style="margin-bottom:0.0001pt;text-align:center;background-image:initial;background-repeat:initial"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:Cambria,serif">Jointly by : SSSC, APCR, SIO, Bonded Labour Liberation Front, Forum Asia, JPF, HRA,</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style="margin-bottom:0.0001pt;text-align:center;background-image:initial;background-repeat:initial"><b><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:Cambria,serif"> </span></b></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0.0001pt;text-align:justify;background-image:initial;background-repeat:initial"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:Cambria,serif;background-image:initial;background-repeat:initial"><b style="text-align:center;font-family:arial,sans-serif;font-size:small"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:Cambria,serif">For any query, </span></b><span style="text-align:center;font-size:12pt">you may contact to Kaashif (8802879246 ), Vishrut (9818346578), Shihad (9560302979), Asif Abdullah (7298144141 ), Ravi Nitesh (9958907799 )</span> </span><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:Cambria,serif"></span></p></div><div><br></div><div><br></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div> </div> Repeal AFSPAhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07952352387600992296noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5281067201459315139.post-65997615050869204192015-10-30T14:32:00.001+05:302015-10-30T14:32:31.001+05:30INVITATION: 1 NOV: CONVENTION ON REPEAL AFSPA<div dir="ltr"><div class="gmail_quote"><div dir="ltr"><p style="line-height:115%"><span style="font-size:12pt;line-height:115%">Dear friends, </span></p> <p style="line-height:115%"><span style="font-size:12pt;line-height:115%;text-align:justify">A convention on Repeal AFSPA is scheduled on 1</span><sup style="line-height:115%;text-align:justify">st</sup><span style="font-size:12pt;line-height:115%;text-align:justify"> November (2 to 5 PM) at Indian Social Institute, Lodi Road.</span><span style="font-size:12pt;line-height:115%;text-align:justify"> </span><span style="font-size:12pt;line-height:115%;text-align:justify">Activists from North East region as well as voices from all other regions are coming together to bring the issue in frontline of political priorities.</span><br></p> <p style="text-align:justify;line-height:115%"><span style="font-size:12pt;line-height:115%">We invite you to learn and to enrich the session with your experiences, opinion and ideas in this convention. Please join the convention and support the suppressed voices to come on front.</span></p> <p style="text-align:justify;line-height:115%"><span style="font-size:12pt;line-height:115%">You may consider forwarding this invite to your other friends and groups who wish to join the convention and who favor human rights. </span></p> <p style="text-align:justify;line-height:115%"><span style="font-size:12pt;line-height:115%">During 2 to 5 session, you will listen many untold experiences, update about cases pending before judiciary, an understanding about present scenario etc and we all together may form a joint strategy to take this demand forward. </span><span style="font-size:12pt;line-height:115%"> </span><span style="font-size:12pt;line-height:115%">Few reading brochures and literature will also be available at registration desk. A signature sheet will also be there upon which attendees may out their signature to include their name in memorandum that will be send to Prime Minister, Home Minister and President. Hi-tea will be served at the end of program.</span><span style="font-size:12pt;line-height:115%"> </span><br></p> <p style="line-height:115%"><span style="font-size:12pt;line-height:115%"> </span><span style="font-size:12pt;line-height:115%">Facebook event link of this convention is: </span><span style="line-height:115%;font-size:12pt"><a href="https://www.facebook.com/events/966874203350989/" style="line-height:115%" target="_blank">https://www.facebook.com/events/966874203350989/</a></span></p><p style="line-height:115%">We are alsop organising protests in other cities as well. o know about all such events, pl keep visit <a href="http://www.repealafspa.blogspot.com" target="_blank">www.repealafspa.blogspot.com</a> </p> <p style="line-height:115%"><span style="font-size:12pt;line-height:115%"> </span><span style="font-size:12pt;line-height:115%">Detail of the convention is provided here:</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align:justify"><b><span style="font-size:20pt;line-height:115%">_____________________________</span></b></p> <p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style="text-align:center"><span style="font-size:31pt;line-height:115%">CONVENTION ON </span><b><span style="font-size:43pt;line-height:115%;font-family:Chiller;color:red">REPEAL AFSPA</span></b><span style="font-size:33pt;line-height:115%"></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style="text-align:center"><i><span style="font-size:10pt;line-height:115%;color:black">In the series of solidarity Nationwide Protest to Repeal AFSPA to mark 15 Years of Hunger Strike of Irom Sharmila </span></i></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align:justify"><b><span style="font-size:15pt;line-height:115%">Venue: Indian Social Institute, Lodi Road, New Delhi</span></b></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align:justify"><b><span style="font-size:15pt;line-height:115%">Date & Time: 1<sup>st</sup> Nov 2015, 2 to 5 PM </span></b></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align:justify"><b><span style="font-size:15pt;line-height:115%">Speakers: </span></b></p> <p><b><span style="font-size:14pt">Neingulo Krome (Naga Peoples' Movement for Human Rights)</span></b></p> <p><b><span style="font-size:14pt">Babloo Loitongbam (Human Rights Activist from Manipur)</span></b></p> <p><b><span style="font-size:14pt">Swami Agnivesh (Activist, Spiritual leader)</span></b></p> <p><b><span style="font-size:14pt">Prof. Nandini Sundar (Activist, Writer & Professor at Delhi School of Economics)</span></b></p> <p><b><span style="font-size:14pt">Ashok Agrwaal (Lawyer, Author- In search of Vanished Blood)</span></b></p> <p><b><span style="font-size:14pt">Tapan Bose (Activist, Filmmmaker & Head of South Asia Forum for Human Rights)</span></b></p> <p><b><span style="font-size:14pt">Ramratan Chatterjee (Social Activist, Columnist & Author- In the Valley of Kashmir Under White Terror) </span></b></p><p><b><span style="font-size:14pt">Prof. Deepti Priya Mehrotra (Academician, Author of Irom Sharmila's biography: Burning Bright)</span></b></p> <p><b><span style="font-size:14pt">Representatives from other Organisations </span></b></p> <p><b><span style="font-size:14pt"> </span></b></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align:justify"><span style="font-size:19pt;line-height:115%">I</span>rom Sharmila, a <span style="font-size:17pt;line-height:115%;color:red">R</span><span style="color:red">epeal </span><span style="font-size:15pt;line-height:115%;color:red">AFSPA</span><span style="font-size:15pt;line-height:115%"> </span>crusader in Imphal, Manipur is completing <span style="font-size:19pt;line-height:115%">15</span> years of her<span style="color:red"> </span><span style="font-size:14pt;line-height:115%;color:red">hunger protest</span> and will enter in 16<sup>th</sup> year of her hunger strike on 2<sup>nd</sup> November. She is continuously raising her demand through peaceful way of her fast, but state has ignored her demand and even did its best to suppress her voice. She is under arrest under <span style="font-size:14pt;line-height:115%;color:red">section 309 of IPC</span> with charges of attempt to suicide that is completely against her objective.<span style="font-size:15pt;line-height:115%;color:red"> Irom Sharmila</span> was just 28 years old when she had started her fast with her hope in democracy. Now she is 43 years old, all her life behind the bars, just for her crime to sit peacefully and demand to Repeal AFSPA (Armed Forces Special Forces Powers Act), a special act that empowers armed forces to operate with extreme impunity. This act has resulted thousands of serious human rights violations including fake killings and rapes in states of <span style="font-size:14pt;line-height:115%;color:red">north east</span> region (through AFSPA 1958) of India and in <span style="font-size:15pt;line-height:115%;color:red">J&K</span> (through AFSPA, 1990). Despite all the demands from national and international human rights organizations and even from political parties and state leaderships, this act has not been repealed yet.</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align:justify">On completion of 15 years of her hunger protest, we are observing a nationwide joint protest where people and organizations in various states are registering their voice to support cause of Irom Sharmila. In this series of solidarity, we are organizing a Convention on Repeal AFSPA at New Delhi on 1<sup>st</sup> November to raise voice, to analyse and update about cases pending before judiciary and government and to take future course of action. </p> <p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style="text-align:center">__________<span style="color:red"></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style="text-align:center"><b><span style="font-size:13pt;line-height:115%">Organisers</span></b></p> <p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style="text-align:center"><b><span style="font-size:13pt;line-height:115%">Save Sharmila Solidarity Campaign (SSSC), Association for Protection of Civil Rights (APCR), Students Islamic Organisation (SIO), Bonded Labour Liberation Front, Just Peace Foundation (JPF), Forum Asia, Human Rights Alert </span></b></p> <p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style="text-align:center"><b>_________________________</b></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align:justify"><b><span style="font-size:13pt;line-height:115%">For any query, </span></b><span style="font-size:13pt;line-height:115%">you may contact to Kaashif (8802879246 ), Vishrut (9818346578), Shihad (9560302979), Asif Abdullah (7298144141 ), Ravi Nitesh (9958907799 )</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align:justify"><br></p></div></div></div> Repeal AFSPAhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07952352387600992296noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5281067201459315139.post-19108175374009383892015-10-25T11:26:00.001+05:302015-10-25T11:26:27.509+05:30(01-02 NOV 2015) NATIONWIDE PROTEST TO REPEAL AFSPA<div dir="ltr"><div class="gmail_quote"><br><div dir="ltr"><div><div dir="ltr"><div dir="ltr"><div dir="ltr"><div dir="ltr"><div dir="ltr"><div dir="ltr"><div dir="ltr"><div dir="ltr"><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align:justify"><span style="font-family:Cambria,serif">On 2</span><sup style="font-family:Cambria,serif">nd</sup><span style="font-family:Cambria,serif"> Nov 2015, Irom Sharmila is completing her 15 years of hunger strike in demand to Repeal AFSPA. Many national and international organizations already raising their voice in her support and to demand repeal of AFSPA from all regions as this act is a major cause of human rights violations in North East and in J&K since last many years and hundreds of fake killings, rapes, disappearance and torture cases have been reported. But nothing could be done as under AFSPA, security personals are free to shoot to kill with unchecked powers.</span><br></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align:justify"><span style="font-family:Cambria,serif"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align:justify"></p><div style="text-align:center"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjafczneACdn4wz1nqVlxETp3VMxZ5NHFA0tHWBbjKXOwyyO-Mlin1nwbxtraQvnd7FO1H-MZTS27aiNfeiORn2CLgkjVqXzsx29qlt388E5rN3K9X9wRefQ3SAWVmqcX0SB2YMw9KUo_nn/s1600/nationwide-787510.jpg"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjafczneACdn4wz1nqVlxETp3VMxZ5NHFA0tHWBbjKXOwyyO-Mlin1nwbxtraQvnd7FO1H-MZTS27aiNfeiORn2CLgkjVqXzsx29qlt388E5rN3K9X9wRefQ3SAWVmqcX0SB2YMw9KUo_nn/s320/nationwide-787510.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_6209460087661963570" /></a><br><br></div><span style="font-family:Cambria,serif"> </span><b style="text-align:justify"><font face="Cambria, serif"><a href="https://www.facebook.com/events/1635862633349444/" target="_blank">https://www.facebook.com/events/1635862633349444/</a> </font></b><span style="font-family:Cambria,serif"><br></span><p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align:justify"><span style="font-family:Cambria,serif"><br></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align:justify"><span style="font-family:Cambria,serif">Irom Sharmila is demanding repeal of this act through her peaceful hunger strike. Governments have ignored her fast and did not even come forward to talk with her, instead lodged her in jail under section 309 of attempt to suicide. It is when even govt owned panels recommended to review/ repeal of this controversial act and hunger strike of Irom has become world's longest hunger strike. </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align:justify"><span style="font-family:Cambria,serif"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align:justify"><span style="font-family:Cambria,serif">To mark 15 years of completion of hunger strike and to salute her spirit to fight for this cause, SSSC along with many other organizations and activists are calling a Nation wide Protest to repeal AFSPA. </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align:justify"><span style="font-family:Cambria,serif"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align:justify"><b><span style="font-family:Cambria,serif">We are inviting all organizations to collaborate with us and to make it a join effort. </span></b></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align:justify"><span style="font-family:Cambria,serif"><b> </b></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align:justify"><span style="font-family:Cambria,serif"><b>On 1<sup>ST</sup> / 2<sup>nd</sup> Nov, we all may do one or more things in our cities to express our solidarity :</b></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align:justify"><span style="font-family:Cambria,serif"> </span></p> <p style="text-align:justify"><span style="font-family:Symbol">·<span style="font-stretch:normal;font-size:7pt;font-family:'Times New Roman'"> </span></span><i><span style="font-family:Cambria,serif">Submission of Memorandum to Prime Minister of India through your district magistrate </span></i></p> <p style="text-align:justify"><span style="font-family:Symbol">·<span style="font-stretch:normal;font-size:7pt;font-family:'Times New Roman'"> </span></span><i><span style="font-family:Cambria,serif">Submission of Memorandum to your local Member of Parliament to speak on this issue in Parliament and within the party leadership he/she is member with</span></i></p> <p style="text-align:justify"><span style="font-family:Symbol">·<span style="font-stretch:normal;font-size:7pt;font-family:'Times New Roman'"> </span></span><i><span style="font-family:Cambria,serif">Candle Vigil in your city / home </span></i></p> <p style="text-align:justify"><span style="font-family:Symbol">·<span style="font-stretch:normal;font-size:7pt;font-family:'Times New Roman'"> </span></span><i><span style="font-family:Cambria,serif">Organising protest demonstration / rally / pamphlets distribution </span></i></p> <p style="text-align:justify"><span style="font-family:Symbol">·<span style="font-stretch:normal;font-size:7pt;font-family:'Times New Roman'"> </span></span><i><span style="font-family:Cambria,serif">Observing one day hunger strike in solidarity with struggle </span></i></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align:justify"><span style="font-family:Cambria,serif"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align:justify"><b><span style="font-family:Cambria,serif">We invite you to do anyone or more activities from above, you may send details about you/ your organization at <a href="mailto:savesharmila@gmail.com" target="_blank">savesharmila@gmail.com</a> to include name in the list or organizers. List of cities and programs will be regularly updated on this event page along with names of all organizations and individuals who will join efforts. </span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align:justify"><b><span style="font-family:Cambria,serif"><br></span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align:justify"><span style="color:rgb(20,24,35);font-family:helvetica,arial,sans-serif;font-size:14px;line-height:18.76px;text-align:left">JOINTLY ORGANISED BY (Finalised till now, more joining the list): </span><br style="color:rgb(20,24,35);font-family:helvetica,arial,sans-serif;font-size:14px;line-height:18.76px;text-align:left"><span style="color:rgb(20,24,35);font-family:helvetica,arial,sans-serif;font-size:14px;line-height:18.76px;text-align:left">Save Sharmila Solidarity Campaign (SSSC), Association for Protection of Civil Rights (APCR), Eye Arts Collective, Students Islamic Organisation (SIO), Awadh Peoples Forum, Just Peace Foundation, Bonded Labour Liberation Front</span><br style="color:rgb(20,24,35);font-family:helvetica,arial,sans-serif;font-size:14px;line-height:18.76px;text-align:left"><br style="color:rgb(20,24,35);font-family:helvetica,arial,sans-serif;font-size:14px;line-height:18.76px;text-align:left"><span style="color:rgb(20,24,35);font-family:helvetica,arial,sans-serif;font-size:14px;line-height:18.76px;text-align:left">Finalised programs list (till now, more coming in list):</span><br style="color:rgb(20,24,35);font-family:helvetica,arial,sans-serif;font-size:14px;line-height:18.76px;text-align:left"><span style="color:rgb(20,24,35);font-family:helvetica,arial,sans-serif;font-size:14px;line-height:18.76px;text-align:left">_______________________</span><br style="color:rgb(20,24,35);font-family:helvetica,arial,sans-serif;font-size:14px;line-height:18.76px;text-align:left"><span style="color:rgb(20,24,35);font-family:helvetica,arial,sans-serif;font-size:14px;line-height:18.76px;text-align:left">Kolkata:</span><br style="color:rgb(20,24,35);font-family:helvetica,arial,sans-serif;font-size:14px;line-height:18.76px;text-align:left"><span style="color:rgb(20,24,35);font-family:helvetica,arial,sans-serif;font-size:14px;line-height:18.76px;text-align:left">Organisation: Eye Art Collective </span><br style="color:rgb(20,24,35);font-family:helvetica,arial,sans-serif;font-size:14px;line-height:18.76px;text-align:left"><span style="color:rgb(20,24,35);font-family:helvetica,arial,sans-serif;font-size:14px;line-height:18.76px;text-align:left">Program: </span><br style="color:rgb(20,24,35);font-family:helvetica,arial,sans-serif;font-size:14px;line-height:18.76px;text-align:left"><span style="color:rgb(20,24,35);font-family:helvetica,arial,sans-serif;font-size:14px;line-height:18.76px;text-align:left">Graffiti campaign </span><br style="color:rgb(20,24,35);font-family:helvetica,arial,sans-serif;font-size:14px;line-height:18.76px;text-align:left"><span style="color:rgb(20,24,35);font-family:helvetica,arial,sans-serif;font-size:14px;line-height:18.76px;text-align:left">One day hunger strike </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align:justify"><span style="display:inline;color:rgb(20,24,35);font-family:helvetica,arial,sans-serif;font-size:14px;line-height:18.76px;text-align:left"><br>_______________________<br>Pune: <br>Organisation: Eye Art Collective <br>Performance of poetry of Irom Sharmila at local poetry slam<br>Documentary screening on Irom Sharmila <br>A lecture on AFSPA and open discussion <br>Submission of memorandum to PM through District Magistrate <br>Submission of memorandum to local MP to speak on this issue in parliament and within his/her own party<br>Distribution of pamphlets <br>Observing one day hunger strike <br>_________________________<br><br>Srinagar: <br>Organisation: Save Sharmila Solidarity Campaign (SSSC)<br>Memorandum submission to PM through DC<br>__________________________<br>Panipat: <br>Organisation: Save Sharmila Solidarity Campaign (SSSC)<br>Memorandum submission to PM through DM<br>__________________________<br>Faizabad:<br>Organisation: Awadh People's Forum: 1 Nov<br>Solidarity Activisty: Candle Vigil and Protest<br>_______________________<br>Orrisa:<br>Organisation: Save Sharmila Solidarity Campaign<br>Solidarity Activity: Sand Art on struggle of Irom Sharmila: 1 Nov<br>Odisha Maritime Museum, Silver city Cuttack <br>_________________________<br>Delhi:<br>Organisation: SSSC, APCR, SIO, JPF, BLLF</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align:justify"><span style="display:inline;color:rgb(20,24,35);font-family:helvetica,arial,sans-serif;font-size:14px;line-height:18.76px;text-align:left">Delhi Convention on Repeal AFSPA: 1 Nov, India International Centre- Annex</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align:justify"><span style="display:inline;color:rgb(20,24,35);font-family:helvetica,arial,sans-serif;font-size:14px;line-height:18.76px;text-align:left">__________________________<br></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align:justify"><br></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align:justify"><b><span style="font-family:Cambria,serif">REGARDS</span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align:justify"><b><span style="font-family:Cambria,serif">Ravi Nitesh</span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align:justify"><b><span style="font-family:Cambria,serif">Convener</span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align:justify"><b><span style="font-family:Cambria,serif">Save Sharmila Solidarity Campaign </span></b><br></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align:justify"><b><span style="font-family:Cambria,serif"><a href="http://www.repealafspa.blogspot.in" target="_blank">www.repealafspa.blogspot.in</a> </span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align:justify"><b><span style="font-family:Cambria,serif"><br></span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align:justify"><b><br></b></p></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div> </div> </div><br></div> Repeal AFSPAhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07952352387600992296noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5281067201459315139.post-73370111220019687002015-10-12T10:24:00.001+05:302015-10-12T10:24:58.716+05:30INDIA CAN'T CLAIM UN SEAT WITHOUT REPEALING AFSPA : SSSC<div dir="ltr"><div class="gmail_quote"><div dir="ltr"><div><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align:justify;background-image:initial;background-repeat:initial"><span style="font-family:Verdana,sans-serif;font-size:13.3333px">NEW DELHI: 8 OCTOBER 2015</span><br></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align:justify;background-image:initial;background-repeat:initial"><span style="font-size:10pt;font-family:Verdana,sans-serif"><br></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align:justify;background-image:initial;background-repeat:initial"><font face="Verdana, sans-serif"><span style="font-size:13.3333px">Published: </span></font></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align:justify;background-image:initial;background-repeat:initial"><span style="font-family:Verdana,sans-serif;font-size:13.3333px"><a href="http://www.sentinelassam.com/">http://www.sentinelassam.com/</a> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align:justify;background-image:initial;background-repeat:initial"><span style="font-size:13.3333px;font-family:Verdana,sans-serif"><a href="http://ifp.co.in/page/items/28720/india-cant-claim-un-seat-without-repealing-afspa-save-sharmila-solidarity-campaign">http://ifp.co.in/page/items/28720/india-cant-claim-un-seat-without-repealing-afspa-save-sharmila-solidarity-campaign</a> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align:justify;background-image:initial;background-repeat:initial"><span style="font-size:13.3333px;font-family:Verdana,sans-serif"><a href="http://twocircles.net/2015oct08/1444308381.html#.Vhs4wOyqqko">http://twocircles.net/2015oct08/1444308381.html#.Vhs4wOyqqko</a> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align:justify;background-image:initial;background-repeat:initial"><font face="Verdana, sans-serif"><span style="font-size:13.3333px"><a href="http://thepeopleschronicle.in/?p=17869">http://thepeopleschronicle.in/?p=17869</a> </span><br></font></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align:justify;background-image:initial;background-repeat:initial"><font face="Verdana, sans-serif"><span style="font-size:13.3333px"><a href="http://nepsnews.in/2015/10/09/india-cant-claim-un-seat-without-repealing-afspa-save-sharmila-solidarity-campaign/">http://nepsnews.in/2015/10/09/india-cant-claim-un-seat-without-repealing-afspa-save-sharmila-solidarity-campaign/</a> </span><br></font></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align:justify;background-image:initial;background-repeat:initial"><font face="Verdana, sans-serif"><span style="font-size:13.3333px"><a href="http://morungexpress.com/repeal-armed-forces-special-powers-act-before-claiming-a-permanent-unsc-seat/">http://morungexpress.com/repeal-armed-forces-special-powers-act-before-claiming-a-permanent-unsc-seat/</a> </span><br></font></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align:justify;background-image:initial;background-repeat:initial"><font face="Verdana, sans-serif"><span style="font-size:13.3333px"><a href="http://issuu.com/morung_express/docs/october_9th__2015">http://issuu.com/morung_express/docs/october_9th__2015</a> </span><br></font></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align:justify;background-image:initial;background-repeat:initial"><font face="Verdana, sans-serif"><span style="font-size:13.3333px"><a href="http://www.northeasttoday.in/repeal-afspa-before-claiming-a-permanent-unsc-seat/">http://www.northeasttoday.in/repeal-afspa-before-claiming-a-permanent-unsc-seat/</a> </span><br></font></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align:justify;background-image:initial;background-repeat:initial"><font face="Verdana, sans-serif"><span style="font-size:13.3333px"><a href="http://www.assamtimes.org/node/15412">http://www.assamtimes.org/node/15412</a> </span><br></font></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align:justify;background-image:initial;background-repeat:initial"><font face="Verdana, sans-serif"><span style="font-size:13.3333px"><a href="http://kanglaonline.com/2015/10/un-seat-cannot-be-claimed-by-india-without-repealing-afspa-sssc/">http://kanglaonline.com/2015/10/un-seat-cannot-be-claimed-by-india-without-repealing-afspa-sssc/</a> </span><br></font></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align:justify;background-image:initial;background-repeat:initial"><font face="Verdana, sans-serif"><span style="font-size:13.3333px"><a href="http://e-pao.net/epSubPageExtractor.asp?src=news_section.Press_Release.Press_Release_2015.India_cant_claim_UN_seat_without_repealing_AFSPA_20151009">http://e-pao.net/epSubPageExtractor.asp?src=news_section.Press_Release.Press_Release_2015.India_cant_claim_UN_seat_without_repealing_AFSPA_20151009</a> </span><br></font></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align:justify;background-image:initial;background-repeat:initial"><font face="Verdana, sans-serif"><span style="font-size:13.3333px"><br></span></font></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align:justify;background-image:initial;background-repeat:initial"><font face="Verdana, sans-serif"><span style="font-size:13.3333px"><br></span></font></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align:justify;background-image:initial;background-repeat:initial"><span style="font-size:10pt;font-family:Verdana,sans-serif">Irom Sharmila appeared in the Delhi Court on 6<sup>th</sup><span> AND 7<sup>TH</sup> </span>October for the trial of the 2006 Jantar Mantar Case where Delhi Police lodged a case against her in section 309 of attempt to suicide. During the hearing, she reiterated her truth that she is not committing suicide. She is not taking life; instead she is appealing to protect the right to life. In the hearing, she also reiterated the undemocratic and draconian effects of AFSPA and appealed for its repeal. SSSC volunteers met her during her court appearance. </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align:justify;background-image:initial;background-repeat:initial"><span style="font-size:10pt;font-family:Verdana,sans-serif"> </span><span style="font-size:9.5pt;font-family:Arial,sans-serif"></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align:justify;background-image:initial;background-repeat:initial"><span style="font-size:10pt;font-family:Verdana,sans-serif">SSSC considers these hearings as a way of suppression of voices of human rights. Everybody knows that fast of Irom sharmila is for a public cause, yet lodging her in jail with the reason of attempt to suicide , is a judicial failure and disrespect of human rights of world's largest democracy. As Irom Sharmila also said in her statement, that at a time when India is advocating to ensure its permanent seat in UN, continuing with laws like AFSPA is extreme contradiction. Ravi Nitesh, Convener of Save Sharmila Solidarity Campaign told that If India is really serious to be known at global level with powers to take part in policy making and advisory for global issues through UN, it must have first and primary requirement of respecting human rights. SSSC supports Irom Sharmila in all her endeavor and struggle. </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align:justify;background-image:initial;background-repeat:initial"><span style="font-size:10pt;font-family:Verdana,sans-serif"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align:justify;background-image:initial;background-repeat:initial"><span style="font-size:10pt;font-family:Verdana,sans-serif">It is known through reports of government-appointed committees and national and international human rights' organisations that AFSPA is discriminatory and a kind of unconstitutional and harsh act that provides extraordinary powers to security forces in disturbed regions, without asking for any accountability. These unstopped uses of powers by security forces have been used in serious situations of violations of human rights. By this act, security forces start behaving like criminals who have unchecked powers and accountability.</span><span style="font-size:9.5pt;font-family:Arial,sans-serif"></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align:justify;background-image:initial;background-repeat:initial"><span style="font-size:10pt;font-family:Verdana,sans-serif"> </span><span style="font-size:9.5pt;font-family:Arial,sans-serif"></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align:justify;background-image:initial;background-repeat:initial"><span style="font-size:10pt;font-family:Verdana,sans-serif">Save Sharmila Solidarity Campaign, that is continuously working since last many years against AFSPA also advocates for its repeal from all areas. The campaign keeps its faith upon non violence struggle of Irom Sharmila and considers her as its leader. SSSC has worked nationwide in last years to highlight struggle of Irom Sharmila and have organised numerous events, public demonstrations and other activities in almost all states of India and in few other countries to advocate Repeal of AFSPA from all regions, including state of North East Region and of J&K, SSSC believes that its struggle is against state repression that anyone can see through AFSPA that is imposed in J&K and states of North east region, and therefore struggle will continue against all human rights violations by security forces in these regions. </span><span style="font-size:9.5pt;font-family:Arial,sans-serif"></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align:justify;background-image:initial;background-repeat:initial"><span style="font-size:10pt;font-family:Verdana,sans-serif"><br></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align:justify;background-image:initial;background-repeat:initial"><span style="font-size:10pt;font-family:Verdana,sans-serif"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaRlrNSnhlyUdHBfrNH2vd276b6oB9OMB3gmQeqbLnrXtb95M0hop8jAoAifA-Dbb8Fwzu5DXtDK7pgCkqyg3DOvojD1jZ4TsShZD_F0f6mX_1vjMyo5czA-EqngHc6U3y1hw7V6OeMLer/s1600/Morung++Exp+9+Oct+Front+Page-798718.bmp"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaRlrNSnhlyUdHBfrNH2vd276b6oB9OMB3gmQeqbLnrXtb95M0hop8jAoAifA-Dbb8Fwzu5DXtDK7pgCkqyg3DOvojD1jZ4TsShZD_F0f6mX_1vjMyo5czA-EqngHc6U3y1hw7V6OeMLer/s320/Morung++Exp+9+Oct+Front+Page-798718.bmp" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_6204620133855111106" /></a><br>Morung Express, 9 Oct, Front Page <br></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align:justify;background-image:initial;background-repeat:initial"><span style="font-size:10pt;font-family:Verdana,sans-serif;background-image:initial;background-repeat:initial"><span> </span></span><span style="font-size:9.5pt;font-family:Arial,sans-serif"></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align:justify;background-image:initial;background-repeat:initial"><span style="font-size:10pt;font-family:Verdana,sans-serif;background-image:initial;background-repeat:initial"><span>There have been many incidents of brutal mass-rapes that have been reported in past and justice still eludes the victims. This has been proved not only by human rights' organisations but also by government-appointed committees. </span></span><span style="font-size:9.5pt;font-family:Arial,sans-serif"></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align:justify;background-image:initial;background-repeat:initial"><span style="font-size:10pt;font-family:Verdana,sans-serif;background-image:initial;background-repeat:initial"><span> </span></span><span style="font-size:9.5pt;font-family:Arial,sans-serif"></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align:justify;background-image:initial;background-repeat:initial"><span style="font-size:10pt;font-family:Verdana,sans-serif">We demand with the government to immediately pay attention towards AFSPA repeal. Keeping AFSPA in Manipur and in J&K is against the will and future of state. We demand with state and central government both to coordinate and cooperate with each other to end the impasse over AFSPA. For Manipur, state leadership of central ruled party was already promised repeal of AFSPA. </span><span style="font-size:9.5pt;font-family:Arial,sans-serif"></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align:justify;background-image:initial;background-repeat:initial"><span style="font-size:10pt;font-family:Verdana,sans-serif"> </span><span style="font-size:9.5pt;font-family:Arial,sans-serif"></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align:justify;background-image:initial;background-repeat:initial"><span style="font-size:10pt;font-family:Verdana,sans-serif">SSSC believes that AFSPA that was extended to J&K vide AFSPA-J&K, should be repealed as victimisation and sufferings cannot be looked separately. A human rights violation is always a violation of human rights regardless of region. in J&K, so many incidents of killings, rapes and disappeances have already been reported and evidences were provided even before courts against many security officials, but due to impunity under AFSPA (section 7), nothing could be done against culprits. </span><span style="font-size:9.5pt;font-family:Arial,sans-serif"></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align:justify;background-image:initial;background-repeat:initial"><span style="font-size:10pt;font-family:Verdana,sans-serif"> </span><span style="font-size:9.5pt;font-family:Arial,sans-serif"></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align:justify;background-image:initial;background-repeat:initial"><span style="font-size:10pt;font-family:Verdana,sans-serif">SSSC also see that enjoying such an impunity that AFSPA provides is actually a corruption and it is absolutely not required for any responsible, honest and committed security force personals. In contrary, it becomes dangerous as such absolute powers divert the normal way of working of personals. </span><span style="font-size:9.5pt;font-family:Arial,sans-serif"></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align:justify;background-image:initial;background-repeat:initial"><span style="font-size:10pt;font-family:Verdana,sans-serif"> </span><span style="font-size:9.5pt;font-family:Arial,sans-serif"></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align:justify;background-image:initial;background-repeat:initial"><span style="font-size:10pt;font-family:Verdana,sans-serif">SSSC appeals with the state and central government to immediately act upon this long pending demand of Repeal AFSPA. AFSPA is a failed law. </span><span style="font-size:9.5pt;font-family:Arial,sans-serif"></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align:justify;background-image:initial;background-repeat:initial"><span style="font-size:10pt;font-family:Verdana,sans-serif"><br> </span><span style="font-size:10pt;font-family:Verdana,sans-serif">The demand to repeal AFSPA is not only at national level but also at a global level with international human rights' organisations and activists advocating for it. At this time when India is being honored globally, this undemocratic and inhuman act is also working to tarnish this image.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align:justify;background-image:initial;background-repeat:initial"><span style="font-size:9.5pt;font-family:Arial,sans-serif"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align:justify;background-image:initial;background-repeat:initial"><span style="font-size:10pt;font-family:Verdana,sans-serif">SSSC will continue its efforts and will be organising protests and active campaigning in coming months for advocating Repeal of AFSPA from every where.</span><span style="font-size:9.5pt;font-family:Arial,sans-serif"></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align:justify;background-image:initial;background-repeat:initial"><span style="font-size:10pt;font-family:Verdana,sans-serif"> </span><span style="font-size:9.5pt;font-family:Arial,sans-serif"></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:12pt;text-align:justify;background-image:initial;background-repeat:initial"><i><span style="font-size:10pt;font-family:Verdana,sans-serif">Press Release issued by</span></i><span style="font-size:9.5pt;font-family:Arial,sans-serif"></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align:justify;background-image:initial;background-repeat:initial"><span style="font-size:10pt;font-family:Verdana,sans-serif">Save Sharmila Solidarity Campaign</span><span style="font-size:9.5pt;font-family:Arial,sans-serif"></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align:justify;background-image:initial;background-repeat:initial"><span style="font-size:10pt;font-family:Verdana,sans-serif"><a href="http://repealafspa.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">http://repealafspa.blogspot.com</a></span><span style="font-size:9.5pt;font-family:Arial,sans-serif"></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align:justify;background-image:initial;background-repeat:initial"><span style="font-size:10pt;font-family:Verdana,sans-serif"></span><span style="text-align:start"> </span><span style="font-size:9.5pt;font-family:Arial,sans-serif"></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align:justify;background-image:initial;background-repeat:initial"><span style="font-size:10pt;font-family:Verdana,sans-serif"></span><span style="text-align:start">For any queries, contact Ravi Nitesh at <a href="mailto:savesharmila@gmail.com" target="_blank">savesharmila@gmail.com</a> or 9958907799</span></p></div><div><br></div><div>Ravi Nitesh (Convener), Patna: Zaheeb Ajmal, Delhi: Devika Mittal, Mumbai: Guddi ,Chennai: Tanveer ,Kerla: Jayachandran Ramchandran (CRSJS), Srinagar: Tanveer Hussain Khan (One World Foundation), Asif Abdullah, Mudassir Rizwan, West Bengal: Shubhojit, Manipur: Babloo, Onil, Irom Singhjit </div><span class=""><font color="#888888"><div><br></div><div>-- <br></div><div><div dir="ltr"><div>Regards,</div> <div> <img src="http://www.e-paolive.net/galleries/images/misc/2012/07/Sharmila_20120711.jpg" width="96" height="72"></div> <div><b>Save Sharmila Solidarity Campaign</b></div> <div><strong><font face="georgia, serif" size="1">(A joint initiative of various organizations & movements)</font></strong></div><div><font face="courier new, monospace" size="1"><strong>Blog: <a href="http://www.repealafspa.blogspot.com" target="_blank">www.repealafspa.blogspot.com</a> </strong></font></div><div><font face="courier new, monospace" size="1"><strong><a href="mailto:E-mail%3Asavesharmila@gmail.com" target="_blank">E-mail:savesharmila@gmail.com</a> </strong></font></div><div><font face="courier new, monospace" size="1"><strong>Facebook: Groups/savesharmilacampaign</strong></font></div> <div><font face="'Comic Sans MS'" size="1"><b><br></b></font></div> <div><strong><font size="1"></font></strong> </div> <div><font size="1">We welcome your participation/suggestion/feedbacks. </font></div></div></div> </font></span></div> </div><br></div> Repeal AFSPAhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07952352387600992296noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5281067201459315139.post-6041702562159170192015-08-13T10:49:00.000+05:302015-08-13T10:50:03.440+05:30PEACE ACCORD WELCOME, NOW REPEAL AFSPA: SSSC<div dir="ltr"><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0.0001pt;font-size:12.8000001907349px;text-align:justify;background-image:initial;background-repeat:initial"><b><u><span style="font-family:Arial,sans-serif">PEACE ACCORD WELCOME, NOW REPEAL AFSPA: SSSC</span></u></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0.0001pt;font-size:12.8000001907349px;text-align:justify;background-image:initial;background-repeat:initial"><span style="font-family:Arial,sans-serif"><br></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0.0001pt;font-size:12.8000001907349px;text-align:justify;background-image:initial;background-repeat:initial"><span style="font-family:Arial,sans-serif">Published:</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0.0001pt;text-align:justify;background-image:initial;background-repeat:initial"><font face="Arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size:12.8000001907349px"><a href="http://www.deccanherald.com/content/493826/after-naga-agreement-fresh-call.html">http://www.deccanherald.com/content/493826/after-naga-agreement-fresh-call.html</a> </span></font><br></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0.0001pt;text-align:justify;background-image:initial;background-repeat:initial"><font face="Arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size:12.8000001907349px"><a href="http://morungexpress.com/nagas-in-chandel-welcomes-peace-accord/">http://morungexpress.com/nagas-in-chandel-welcomes-peace-accord/</a> </span><br></font></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0.0001pt;text-align:justify;background-image:initial;background-repeat:initial"><font face="Arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size:12.8000001907349px"><a href="http://issuu.com/morung_express/docs/august_6th__2015">http://issuu.com/morung_express/docs/august_6th__2015</a> </span><br></font></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0.0001pt;text-align:justify;background-image:initial;background-repeat:initial"><font face="Arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size:12.8000001907349px"><a href="http://kanglaonline.com/2015/08/government-is-not-serious-about-permanent-peace-sssc/">http://kanglaonline.com/2015/08/government-is-not-serious-about-permanent-peace-sssc/</a> </span></font><br></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0.0001pt;text-align:justify;background-image:initial;background-repeat:initial"><font face="Arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size:12.8000001907349px"><a href="http://e-pao.net/epSubPageSelector.asp?src=Government_is_not_serious_about_permanent_peace_20150806&ch=news_section&sub1=Press_Release&sub2=Press_Release_2015">http://e-pao.net/epSubPageSelector.asp?src=Government_is_not_serious_about_permanent_peace_20150806&ch=news_section&sub1=Press_Release&sub2=Press_Release_2015</a> </span></font><br></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0.0001pt;font-size:12.8000001907349px;text-align:justify;background-image:initial;background-repeat:initial"><span style="font-family:Arial,sans-serif"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0.0001pt;font-size:12.8000001907349px;text-align:justify"><span style="font-family:Arial,sans-serif;background-image:initial;background-repeat:initial">Save Sharmila Solidarity Campaign (SSSC) welcomes the decision of peace accord between Govt and NSCN (IM). By this historic peace accord, there are many signals from the side of the government, first of all it conveys the importance of peace and the commitment for development in North East states where the Prime Minister himself was present during peace accord with NSCN(IM) leaders. </span><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman',serif"></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0.0001pt;font-size:12.8000001907349px;text-align:justify;background-image:initial;background-repeat:initial"><span style="font-family:Arial,sans-serif"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0.0001pt;font-size:12.8000001907349px;text-align:justify;background-image:initial;background-repeat:initial"><span style="font-family:Arial,sans-serif">SSSC believes that such actions from government are one of confidence building measures where not only common people of north east, but even insurgent groups and their members can now think and can join the mainstream in the broader objective of peace and development. </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0.0001pt;font-size:12.8000001907349px;text-align:justify;background-image:initial;background-repeat:initial"><span style="font-family:Arial,sans-serif"><br></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0.0001pt;font-size:12.8000001907349px;text-align:justify;background-image:initial;background-repeat:initial"><span style="font-family:Arial,sans-serif"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnlMQgCkxfgMEcqn37jVv5_k3o2SrTEYBTenwtvumO3rurZnmGqnca3fLprsqeTuitcJYEeS3JcZIdyq5zT_JMx7JSkB0pAEO_1BekM8_WjF06BqeItvHJRdoRWdV5WNRZg0QY-oLAodVu/s1600/6+Aug+15+NSCN+Peace+Morung-703441.bmp"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnlMQgCkxfgMEcqn37jVv5_k3o2SrTEYBTenwtvumO3rurZnmGqnca3fLprsqeTuitcJYEeS3JcZIdyq5zT_JMx7JSkB0pAEO_1BekM8_WjF06BqeItvHJRdoRWdV5WNRZg0QY-oLAodVu/s320/6+Aug+15+NSCN+Peace+Morung-703441.bmp" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_6182361488748602754" /></a><br><br></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0.0001pt;font-size:12.8000001907349px;text-align:justify;background-image:initial;background-repeat:initial"><span style="font-family:Arial,sans-serif"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0.0001pt;font-size:12.8000001907349px;text-align:justify;background-image:initial;background-repeat:initial"><span style="font-family:Arial,sans-serif">SSSC commends the role of R N Ravi for reflecting his commitment towards stability in north east and for standing towards people of north east. Being an interlocutor for these talks, he successfully brought both the parties at single point of joining hands. </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0.0001pt;font-size:12.8000001907349px;text-align:justify;background-image:initial;background-repeat:initial"><span style="font-family:Arial,sans-serif"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0.0001pt;font-size:12.8000001907349px;text-align:justify;background-image:initial;background-repeat:initial"><span style="font-family:Arial,sans-serif">With all these best wishes and congratulations, SSSC appeals once again with the government of India to work towards repeal of AFSPA. SSSC convener Ravi Nitesh said that though the move is a welcome but without repealing AFSPA, it does not seem that government is indicating or serious thinking towards permanent peace. In fact, no restrictions or cut in unconstitutional powers of military is actually a threat, not less than the threat of insurgents in north east states. Establishing peace talks and ceasefire deals with insurgents is about ensuring the development and scenario of investment by private parties that government is seeking, but repealing AFSPA will be a move of establishing real and ground contacts with people, of touching their hearts and minds in real ways, because this will mean understanding their scenario of everyday abnormality and threat and also about taking action to ensure peace for them. We hope that from Look east to now Act East, has to move ahead with Understanding East. Without understanding issues, actions will not be as fruitful as it would be."</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0.0001pt;font-size:12.8000001907349px;text-align:justify;background-image:initial;background-repeat:initial"><span style="font-family:Arial,sans-serif"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0.0001pt;font-size:12.8000001907349px;text-align:justify;background-image:initial;background-repeat:initial"><span style="font-family:Arial,sans-serif">We have seen that how despite being on hunger strike since last 15 years, Irom Sharmila has not been able to get importance by government. Even despite her repeated requests and desire to meet newly elected prime minister Mr. Modi, she did not get any chance to meet him. She is a person who is following a non violent and democratic path for her demand to repeal AFSPA. Despite her worldwide popularity and voice and support of human rights organisations, government has not listen demand yet. Moreover, her fast has largely been ignored. Will it not give a signal that non violence and democratic ways are loosing their importance in present regime of India? Government need to rethink on this fast more seriously and to act immediately in this regard. </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0.0001pt;font-size:12.8000001907349px;text-align:justify;background-image:initial;background-repeat:initial"><span style="font-family:Arial,sans-serif"><br></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0.0001pt;font-size:12.8000001907349px;text-align:justify;background-image:initial;background-repeat:initial"><span style="font-family:Arial,sans-serif">Issued by</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0.0001pt;font-size:12.8000001907349px;text-align:justify;background-image:initial;background-repeat:initial"><span style="font-family:Arial,sans-serif">Save Sharmila Solidarity Campaign </span></p> </div> Repeal AFSPAhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07952352387600992296noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5281067201459315139.post-31683925052435338502015-07-13T10:23:00.001+05:302015-07-13T10:23:48.387+05:30AFSPA EXTENSION IN NAGALAND IS FAILURE OF GOVERNMENT : SSSC<div dir="ltr"><div class="gmail_quote"><div dir="ltr"><div style="font-size:12.8000001907349px"><span style="font-size:12.8000001907349px"><b><u>AFSPA EXTENSION IN NAGALAND IS FAILURE OF GOVERNMENT : SSSC</u></b></span><br></div><div style="font-size:12.8000001907349px"><br></div><div style=""><span style="font-size:12.8000001907349px">Published at:</span></div><div style=""><span style="font-size:12.8000001907349px"><a href="http://www.nagalandpost.com/ChannelNews/State/StateNews.aspx?news=TkVXUzEwMDA4MzE5Mg%3D%3D">http://www.nagalandpost.com/ChannelNews/State/StateNews.aspx?news=TkVXUzEwMDA4MzE5Mg%3D%3D</a> </span><br></div><div style=""><span style="font-size:12.8000001907349px"><br></span></div><div style=""><span style="font-size:12.8000001907349px"><a href="http://www.countercurrents.org/sssc120715.htm">http://www.countercurrents.org/sssc120715.htm</a> </span><br></div><div style=""><span style="font-size:12.8000001907349px"><br></span></div><div style=""><span style="font-size:12.8000001907349px"><a href="http://www.assamtimes.org/node/14172">http://www.assamtimes.org/node/14172</a> </span><br></div><div style=""><span style="font-size:12.8000001907349px"><br></span></div><div style=""><span style="font-size:12.8000001907349px"><a href="http://kanglaonline.com/2015/07/press-release-afspa-extension-in-nagaland-is-failure-of-government-sssc/">http://kanglaonline.com/2015/07/press-release-afspa-extension-in-nagaland-is-failure-of-government-sssc/</a> </span><br></div><div style=""><span style="font-size:12.8000001907349px"><br></span></div><div style=""><span style="font-size:12.8000001907349px"><a href="http://morungexpress.com/afspa-is-nothing-more-than-the-surrender-of-democracy/">http://morungexpress.com/afspa-is-nothing-more-than-the-surrender-of-democracy/</a> </span><br></div><div style=""><span style="font-size:12.8000001907349px"><br></span></div><div style=""><span style="font-size:12.8000001907349px"><a href="http://thepeopleschronicle.in/?p=13762">http://thepeopleschronicle.in/?p=13762</a> </span><br></div><div style=""><span style="font-size:12.8000001907349px"><br></span></div><div style=""><span style="font-size:12.8000001907349px"><a href="http://www.hueiyenlanpao.com/headlines/item/32801-extension-of-afspa-condemned">http://www.hueiyenlanpao.com/headlines/item/32801-extension-of-afspa-condemned</a> </span><br></div><div style=""><span style="font-size:12.8000001907349px"><br></span></div><div style=""><span style="font-size:12.8000001907349px"><a href="http://e-pao.net/epSubPageExtractor.asp?src=news_section.Press_Release.Press_Release_2015.AFSPA_extension_in_Nagaland_is_failure_of_Government_20150713">http://e-pao.net/epSubPageExtractor.asp?src=news_section.Press_Release.Press_Release_2015.AFSPA_extension_in_Nagaland_is_failure_of_Government_20150713</a> </span><br></div><div style=""><span style="font-size:12.8000001907349px"><br></span></div><div style=""><span style="font-size:12.8000001907349px"><br></span></div><div style=""><span style="font-size:12.8000001907349px"><br></span></div><div style="font-size:12.8000001907349px">Delhi, 12 July 2015. </div><div style="font-size:12.8000001907349px"><br></div><div style="font-size:12.8000001907349px">Recently , AFSPA was extended for another term in Nagaland. It is not only unfortunate and condemnable, but it also shows that how much incapable government is. </div><div style="font-size:12.8000001907349px"><br></div><div style="font-size:12.8000001907349px">Everyone know that AFSPA is discriminatory and a kind of unconstitutional and harsh act that provides extraordinary powers to security forces in disturbed regions, without asking for any accountability. These unstopped use of powers by security forces have been used in serious situations of violations of human rights. By this act, security forces start behaving like criminals who have unchecked powers and accountability. </div><div style="font-size:12.8000001907349px"><br></div><div style="font-size:12.8000001907349px">Save Sharmila Solidarity Campaign, that is continuously working since last many years against AFSPA advocates for its repeal from all areas. Campaign keeps its faith upon non violence struggle of Irom Sharmila and consider her as its leader. SSSC has worked nationwide in last years to highlight struggle of Irom Sharmila and have organised numerous events, public demonstrations and other activities in almost all states of India and in few other countries to advocate Repeal of AFSPA from all regions, including state of North East Region and of J&K, SSSC believes that its struggle is against state repression that anyone can see through AFSPA that is imposed in J&K and states of North east region, and therefore struggle will continue against all human rights violations by security forces in these regions. </div><div style="font-size:12.8000001907349px"><br></div><div style="font-size:12.8000001907349px"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimPhjOAhX5h_58SAFRY5tr5-_tHDrI2LyXE311pju_ZP2YYFtgXe_KKf-cZGyB15iE9OPu9dlKzQwmjGTaEQ0Ksqu5ULytFC0tFXA7xB74dk45EMcy9shJ1-Ma0pLF4qz5QW9EJU56GHIw/s1600/SSSC13July-728388.bmp"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimPhjOAhX5h_58SAFRY5tr5-_tHDrI2LyXE311pju_ZP2YYFtgXe_KKf-cZGyB15iE9OPu9dlKzQwmjGTaEQ0Ksqu5ULytFC0tFXA7xB74dk45EMcy9shJ1-Ma0pLF4qz5QW9EJU56GHIw/s320/SSSC13July-728388.bmp" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_6170851081801713842" /></a><br><br></div><div style="font-size:12.8000001907349px"><br></div><div style="font-size:12.8000001907349px">SSSC see that extension of AFSPA in Nagaland shows that despite clear verdict in centre, BJP shows itself as weak political party and does not have courage to repeal the act in respect of people. It seems that it is military that is ruling the democracy in these regions and state democracy has failed itself by adopting such repressive paths of handing over powers in military hand. It is nothing more than a surrender. Also, state government of Nagaland is similarly incapable in handling of situation and in advocating the voice to Repeal AFSPA. Even elected MPs from North East and local assembly representatives are not coming forward with full courage and strength to voice for Repeal of AFSPA.</div><div style="font-size:12.8000001907349px"><br></div><div style="font-size:12.8000001907349px">We also condemn that Kiren Rijiju, a minister in Central government and a citizen from North East, also has not come against the order of MHA and by this way, he only proved himself as an opportunist politician rather than being a true representative of people. It was also told in media reports that probably Rijiju was bypassed in this decision, however if it is true, Rijiju must clarify and should come in front to advocate what is right for Nagaland. </div><div style="font-size:12.8000001907349px"><br></div><div style="font-size:12.8000001907349px">Ravi Nitesh, convener of SSSC told that <span style="font-size:12.8000001907349px">SSSC appeals with the government to re consider its orders and to adopt measures and strategies that can save people of AFSPA imposed region from human rights violations. SSSC will continue its efforts to advocate for Repeal of AFSPA. </span></div><div style="font-size:12.8000001907349px"><br></div><span class=""><font color="#888888">-- <br><div><div dir="ltr"><div>Regards,</div> <div> <img src="http://www.e-paolive.net/galleries/images/misc/2012/07/Sharmila_20120711.jpg" width="96" height="72"></div> <div><b>Save Sharmila Solidarity Campaign</b></div> <div><strong><font face="georgia, serif" size="1">(A joint initiative of various organizations & movements)</font></strong></div><div><font face="courier new, monospace" size="1"><strong>Blog: <a href="http://www.repealafspa.blogspot.com" target="_blank">www.repealafspa.blogspot.com</a> </strong><strong></strong></font></div><div><font face="courier new, monospace" size="1"><strong><a href="mailto:E-mail%3Asavesharmila@gmail.com" target="_blank">E-mail:savesharmila@gmail.com</a> </strong></font></div><div><font face="courier new, monospace" size="1"><strong>Facebook: Groups/savesharmilacampaign</strong></font></div> <div><font face="'Comic Sans MS'" size="1"><b><br></b></font></div> <div><strong><font size="1"></font></strong> </div> <div><font size="1">We welcome your participation/suggestion/feedbacks. </font></div></div></div> </font></span></div> </div><br></div> Repeal AFSPAhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07952352387600992296noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5281067201459315139.post-49551329138173747132015-06-08T12:49:00.000+05:302015-06-08T12:56:52.818+05:30Irom Sharmila's Court Appearance and Insensitivity of the State<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<span style="font-family: verdana,sans-serif; font-size: small;">Irom Sharmila appeared before the metropolitan magistrate Akash Jain in the
Patiala session court of Delhi on 5<sup>th </sup>and 6<sup>th</sup> June 2015. The
Court was required to record statements of the witnesses that included the
policemen, doctors along with another person who had recorded the protest of Jantar Mantar
when Irom Sharmila was in Delhi in 2006. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: verdana,sans-serif; font-size: small;">In this case, the Delhi
police had lodged FIR upon Irom Sharmila under section 309 of "Attempt to
suicide'. Now as doctors did not come, the next date was given by the court with the hope
that it will be the final hearing. </span></div>
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Save sharmila solidarity campaign (SSSC) members accompanied Irom Sharmila in
the Court and were present in the court in solidarity. Campaign observed that
though it was a judicial requirement, but such kind of hearings are mere
unnecessarily harassment on the name of section 309 upon a human rights
activist. It is a clear contradiction in Irom Sharmila’s case as while she is
fighting for right to life, she is being charged with the allegation of taking
away the right to life. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: verdana,sans-serif; font-size: small;">It is also
observed that despite Irom Sharmila’s desire to meet Prime minister of India,
prime minister office have not called for any meeting yet. It is her demand
since long time that she is hopeful with democracy and she wants to meet Prime
minister. Save Sharmila Soldarity Campaign believes that not calling a meeting with
her is actually a denial of state to meet this crusader of non-violence. It is
a time when Irom Sharmila has global supporters to raise voice for her cause,
but despite all efforts and unparalleled sacrifice and struggle, Indian state
is continuously ignoring and suppressing her. It is unfortunate that the government
is giving priority of talks with those who are adopting violent ways, but it is
continuously ignoring the non-violence.</span></div>
<div style="background-image: initial; background-repeat: initial; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: verdana,sans-serif; font-size: small;">
</span></div>
<div style="background-image: initial; background-repeat: initial;">
<span style="font-family: verdana,sans-serif; font-size: small;">Save Sharmila
Solidarity Campaign is already involve in campaigning and will increase its activities
from coming months to spread awareness and to advocate for the cause of Irom
Sharmila.</span></div>
<div style="background-image: initial; background-repeat: initial;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: verdana,sans-serif; font-size: small;">
</span></div>
<div style="background-image: initial; background-repeat: initial; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: verdana,sans-serif; font-size: small;">SSSC also condemns
the Manipur attack and the questioning of demand of repeal of AFSPA. It was
reported and SSSC re-iterates the statement of Irom Sharmila who had condemned
the Manipur attack. She regarded the killing of soldiers to be shocking and
shameful. She has always condemned killing which is the reason for her protest.
She regards killing, no matter by whom, as shameful and unacceptable. She had
also said that this incident happened in a region which is under full control of
AFSPA but still it happened. It shows that AFSPA has not been the solution.</span></div>
<div style="background-image: initial; background-repeat: initial; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: verdana,sans-serif; font-size: small;">
</span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: verdana,sans-serif; font-size: small;">SSSC agrees and fully supports her view. SSSC feels that such attacks
are also failure of state itself as it seems that state has not even capable of
protecting its own functionaries. Also, the fact remains that the common people
are the sufferers of atrocities of both the state and anti-state groups.
Through AFSPA, the state has been involved in performing extreme atrocities
upon common people in past. SSSC believes that imposing hard laws like AFSPA
(Armed Forces Special Powers Act) in civil areas are of no use and it has been
used against people widely. There must be a strategy to remove AFSPA from all
areas of North East and J&K as without it confidence building cannot be
done. AFSPA is a failed law and it must go. </span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: verdana,sans-serif; font-size: small;">
</span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><i><span style="font-family: verdana,sans-serif;">Press Release issued by</span></i></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: verdana,sans-serif; font-size: small;">
</span><span style="font-family: verdana,sans-serif; font-size: small;">Save Sharmila Solidarity
Campaign</span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: verdana,sans-serif; font-size: small;">
</span><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: verdana,sans-serif;"><a href="http://repealafspa.blogspot.in/" target="_blank">http://repealafspa.blogspot.in</a></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: verdana,sans-serif;">Contact: savesharmila@gmail.com </span></span></div>
</div>
Repeal AFSPAhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07952352387600992296noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5281067201459315139.post-17448375796649052932015-05-29T19:16:00.002+05:302015-05-29T19:18:51.035+05:30Tripura is Start, AFSPA must go from everywhere: SSSC<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: justify;">
<div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<h2>
<u>PRESS RELEASE</u></h2>
<h2>
<u>TRIPURA IS START, AFSPA MUST GO FROM EVERYWHERE: SSSC</u></h2>
</div>
<h2 style="text-align: left;">
<u><span style="font-size: x-small;"></span></u></h2>
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHtODEvdU6SohFFwz14U7387MmuhHjuKiEVy5sfgBnSI_hrgbIkG71XDBsdwMpNQ6FY5lNfWRUhcUsxEJAahoB29bEg8aag36I6VB6Ra2Wz1TcJEnfexDwT4t6kNOp5xrt_CBXo4Uzrc3m/s1600/AFSPA_Imphal_20110911_2_1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="428" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHtODEvdU6SohFFwz14U7387MmuhHjuKiEVy5sfgBnSI_hrgbIkG71XDBsdwMpNQ6FY5lNfWRUhcUsxEJAahoB29bEg8aag36I6VB6Ra2Wz1TcJEnfexDwT4t6kNOp5xrt_CBXo4Uzrc3m/s640/AFSPA_Imphal_20110911_2_1.JPG" width="640" /></a>Announcement of Repeal AFSPA from Tripura is a
welcome move. We, at Save Sharmila Solidarity Campaign, convey our
sincere thanks to Govt of Tripura as well as MHA for considering the
move. We believe that repeal of AFSPA from Tripura is a decision in
favor of democracy and humanity. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Save
Sharmila Solidarity Campaign (SSSC) view this incident as 'moving from
inertia of AFSPA'. It is because since many years and even after
continuous demands by people and rights groups, AFSPA was not even
diluted a bit. No government or security agencies have taken any
positive steps towards its repeal and were isolated from this issue. No
one in the government even wanted to talk about the issue and those who
were in government never tried to break the ice and ignored people's
demand. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
As, SSSC had already stated in several
other campaigning moments, AFSPA does not have people's mandate. We
also believe that by breaking this inertia, there is a signal of
something positive. A start was awaited. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
As
Tripura is one of the states of North East region of India, repealing
AFSPA from this state also sends a message of confidence and hope among
all other people who are residing in AFSPA zone presently. We also see
that this start must become dynamic very soon and governments must try
to repeal it from every where. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
We demand with
the government to immediately pay attention towards Manipur also where
Irom Sharmila is on a continuous fast since the last 15 years. Keeping
AFSPA in Manipur is against the will and future of state. We demand with
state and central government both to coordinate and cooperate with each
other to end the impasse over AFSPA. For Manipur, state leadership of
central ruled patry was already promised repeal of AFSPA. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
SSSC
believes that AFSPA that was extended to J&K vide AFSPA-J&K,
should also be repealed as victimisation and sufferings cannot be looked
separately. A human rights violation is always a violation of human
rights regardless of region. in J&K, so many incidents of killings,
rapes and disappeances have already been reported and evidences were
provided even before courts against many security officials, but due to
impunity under AFSPA (section 7), nothing could be done against
culprits. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
SSSC also see that
enjoying such an impunity that AFSPA provides is actually a corruption
and it is absolutely not required for any responsible , honest and
committed security force personals. In contrary, it becomes dangerous as
such absolute powers divert the normal way of working of personals. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<b>SSSC
appeals with the state and central government to immediately act upon
this long pending demand of Repeal AFSPA. AFSPA is not required not only
in Tripura but in no other AFSPA state. AFSPA is a failed law. </b>SSSC
will continue its efforts and will be organising protests and active
campaigning in coming months for advocating Repeal of AFSPA from every
where. </div>
<div>
<i><br /></i></div>
<div>
<i>Press Release issued by</i></div>
Save Sharmila Solidarity Campaign</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<a href="http://repealafspa.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">http://repealafspa.blogspot.<wbr></wbr>com</a></div>
</div>
Repeal AFSPAhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07952352387600992296noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5281067201459315139.post-12355155923855275272015-04-11T20:12:00.002+05:302015-04-11T21:47:46.093+05:30SSSC condemns rape of 3 by Army personnel in Assam; demands justice <div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt;"><b><u></u></b></span></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0roA01_P5aekY5vnfgREvprEEAXKcLtYKVUGcGAH1NpbEt6O33tpWNRwlXfJj75LNAi93tdgLrcOBgDlRstAYZ4H1sxAAxmOx4Bp8e4rI4IS3N4S1CXx27H4N_f3EYgBONK7YR0Rww7jJ/s1600/diphu+protest.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0roA01_P5aekY5vnfgREvprEEAXKcLtYKVUGcGAH1NpbEt6O33tpWNRwlXfJj75LNAi93tdgLrcOBgDlRstAYZ4H1sxAAxmOx4Bp8e4rI4IS3N4S1CXx27H4N_f3EYgBONK7YR0Rww7jJ/s1600/diphu+protest.jpg" height="289" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Protest against rape in Karbi Anglong by Students and Several women organisations </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt;">
</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt;"></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 12pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt;">In another shocking incident, it has
been reported that on 6th April, 6 Indian Army jawans raped 3 women in Khorsim
Athor village in Anjukpani in Assam. It has been reported that the jawans on
patrol reached the village and allegedly took a 13-year-old to the neighboring
jungle. The girl's mother and another relative later reached the site to rescue
her. According to reports, the jawans then raped the other two women as well.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 12pt; text-align: justify;">
<b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt;">Save Sharmila Solidarity Campaign
(SSSC), a nation-wide campaign in support of Irom Sharmila and against the
draconian Armed Forced Special Powers Act, condemns this incident and demands a
fair investigation and justice.</span></b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt;"></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 12pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt;">This incident has not been the first
incident and is also not an aberration. Sexual Violence by army in AFSPA areas
has been quite widespread. There have been many incidents of brutal mass-rapes
that have been reported in past and justice still eludes the victims. This has
been proved not only by human rights' organisations but also by
government-appointed committees. <br />
<br />
SSSC believes that this continued ignorance and failure to grant justice in a
country that claims to be determined for women equality and dignity is a
contradiction. Sexual Violence and rape by anyone including the army personnels
should be treated in the same way. <b>SSSC demands to follow the recommendation
of Justice Verma to bring cases of rape in AFSPA areas under the purview of
ordinary criminal law. </b></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 12pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt;">However, as this was not an
aberration. The permanent solution remains to be the repeal of AFSPA. Unless
and until, AFSPA is repealed, the scope for cruelties will remain. However,
instead of repealing the law as promised by the current ruling government, <b>it
was recently reported that AFSPA has also been extended to Arunachal Pradesh.
SSSC condemns this. SSSC believes that the Government must know that violence
can never be the solution. AFSPA has proved to be a failed strategy to curb
insurgency and unite the nation.</b> Instead, AFSPA has only aggravated the
problem. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: justify;">
<b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt;">SSSC believes that the permanent
solution for women's dignity, justice and for the integrity of the nation is
the repeal of AFSPA. </span></b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt;"></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt;">Press Release issued by</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt;">Save Sharmila Solidarity Campaign</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt;"><a href="http://repealafspa.blogspot.in/" target="_blank">http://repealafspa.blogspot.in</a></span></div>
</div>
Repeal AFSPAhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07952352387600992296noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5281067201459315139.post-44151151128364776642015-03-14T20:04:00.001+05:302015-03-14T20:04:25.963+05:30PRESS RELEASE: Birth Anniversay of Irom Sharmila was observed with Hunger Strike and Demand for Repeal AFSPA<p class="mobile-photo"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjHGXyjS8T_fJroajUOSlLUjfUnwHSmVW8GZYQPbihMdDSGG6ff6ClHIs1rsE85rHR4tWxSZz3uRagZk4eZCoid9C7D6Ydlqjt7UWzrxO0S77qfHeI_oqsDFqUb_zxtdajs5057JrKUOr7/s1600/Memorandum+to+PMO+page1-765964.jpeg"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjHGXyjS8T_fJroajUOSlLUjfUnwHSmVW8GZYQPbihMdDSGG6ff6ClHIs1rsE85rHR4tWxSZz3uRagZk4eZCoid9C7D6Ydlqjt7UWzrxO0S77qfHeI_oqsDFqUb_zxtdajs5057JrKUOr7/s320/Memorandum+to+PMO+page1-765964.jpeg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_6126099400788362066" /></a></p><p class="mobile-photo"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBkKL_MNHN1fwxyK3R3nrYDMUp-Lai949SjSQhAWqCJgTHbYwmeDDL9CRXnqKeibo53KJ5Xc66cOSoubf-wGJxMtbdMpe9WDxNww_yIW8VcCMue7zTCjHh-kILzDvomgY-DcnniUFxK35l/s1600/Memorandum+to+PMO+page2.jpeg-768276.jpeg"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBkKL_MNHN1fwxyK3R3nrYDMUp-Lai949SjSQhAWqCJgTHbYwmeDDL9CRXnqKeibo53KJ5Xc66cOSoubf-wGJxMtbdMpe9WDxNww_yIW8VcCMue7zTCjHh-kILzDvomgY-DcnniUFxK35l/s320/Memorandum+to+PMO+page2.jpeg-768276.jpeg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_6126099408298807570" /></a></p><p class="mobile-photo"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeGhhr8Ul8Y1qvEQ4R5dF8paPxVwJFQlrXo5TJqzz48B76KrPb7r-O9kQFrZn3OPKLk5Y3FApuxjynDa7JKq2Y_dQbKnWxNAIihWhChibp_sojXGKXqi31afpCel9yj1yK8PkVi8ovgehi/s1600/anti-Afspa+protest+at+jantar+mantar-770283.JPG"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeGhhr8Ul8Y1qvEQ4R5dF8paPxVwJFQlrXo5TJqzz48B76KrPb7r-O9kQFrZn3OPKLk5Y3FApuxjynDa7JKq2Y_dQbKnWxNAIihWhChibp_sojXGKXqi31afpCel9yj1yK8PkVi8ovgehi/s320/anti-Afspa+protest+at+jantar+mantar-770283.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_6126099415995206850" /></a></p><p class="mobile-photo"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOcgRUo0Porg4YZjXqS-lzs8jF55-s3SXIfiEpxcO9imWtjGWhniY3FZvRw2BvWckh9PNb8sAdxs8-Yh_IWAgXY7sHhbtXsJM82WxcDvoLVAqFm5l-uwIyotnxst39E0r8h3-OHz97g-Nz/s1600/DSC_0060-773795.JPG"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOcgRUo0Porg4YZjXqS-lzs8jF55-s3SXIfiEpxcO9imWtjGWhniY3FZvRw2BvWckh9PNb8sAdxs8-Yh_IWAgXY7sHhbtXsJM82WxcDvoLVAqFm5l-uwIyotnxst39E0r8h3-OHz97g-Nz/s320/DSC_0060-773795.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_6126099430041955650" /></a></p><p class="mobile-photo"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwyLWtgwB2f78YioMrsGmwIAu7BWhvWPfSsn3mLgJ4QKnBdDTeBUVUwcJcjiKwAmzbpxBVLh4ntqPZXgcbR0DXePlp2b11ODYFYj4slHgy0NSWkK2NtI8meXNB9pQu6RUqCYcilvc17yT6/s1600/One+day+solidarity+fast+for+Irom+Sharmila+at+Jantar+Mantar-775968.JPG"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwyLWtgwB2f78YioMrsGmwIAu7BWhvWPfSsn3mLgJ4QKnBdDTeBUVUwcJcjiKwAmzbpxBVLh4ntqPZXgcbR0DXePlp2b11ODYFYj4slHgy0NSWkK2NtI8meXNB9pQu6RUqCYcilvc17yT6/s320/One+day+solidarity+fast+for+Irom+Sharmila+at+Jantar+Mantar-775968.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_6126099441434714642" /></a></p><div dir="ltr"><div class="gmail_quote"><div dir="ltr"><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0.0001pt;text-align:justify;background-image:initial;background-repeat:initial"><b><u><span style="font-family:Arial,sans-serif">PRESS RELEASE</span></u></b><span style="font-family:Arial,sans-serif"></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0.0001pt;text-align:justify;background-image:initial;background-repeat:initial"><span style="font-family:Arial,sans-serif"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0.0001pt;text-align:justify;background-image:initial;background-repeat:initial"><span style="font-family:Arial,sans-serif">14 March, Jantar Mantar, New Delhi</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0.0001pt;text-align:justify;background-image:initial;background-repeat:initial"><b><u><span style="font-family:Arial,sans-serif">Solidarity Fast in support of Irom Sharmila</span></u></b><span style="font-family:Arial,sans-serif"></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0.0001pt;text-align:justify;background-image:initial;background-repeat:initial"><span style="font-family:Arial,sans-serif"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0.0001pt;text-align:justify;background-image:initial;background-repeat:initial"><span style="font-family:Arial,sans-serif">A day long fast was organized here in Delhi on the call of Save Sharmila Solidarity Campaign, Association of Protection of Civil Rights, Lok Raj Sangathan and Students Islamic Organisation of India to support Irom Sharmila and to demand repeal of AFSPA. Many people participated and observed the hunger strike. </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0.0001pt;text-align:justify;background-image:initial;background-repeat:initial"><span style="font-family:Arial,sans-serif"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0.0001pt;text-align:justify;background-image:initial;background-repeat:initial"><span style="font-family:Arial,sans-serif">It was also informed by supporters in Mumbai, Panipat, Lucknow and even from Korea that on our call, some people observed fast at their workplace and home, to express solidarity with Irom Sharmila.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0.0001pt;text-align:justify;background-image:initial;background-repeat:initial"><span style="font-family:Arial,sans-serif"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0.0001pt;text-align:justify;background-image:initial;background-repeat:initial"><span style="font-family:Arial,sans-serif">It was birth date of Irom Sharmila, as she was born on 14<sup>th</sup> March 1972 and now after 42 years, she inspired so many people across the world through her non violent struggle that she started 15 years ago at the age of 28. She is on hunger strike and her fast has become longest hunger strike. She motivates each one of us through her faith in democracy. We believe that on this day, this is the least that we can do for expressing our solidarity. </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0.0001pt;text-align:justify;background-image:initial;background-repeat:initial"><span style="font-family:Arial,sans-serif"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0.0001pt;text-align:justify;background-image:initial;background-repeat:initial"><span style="font-family:Arial,sans-serif">Organisers also submitted memorandum to Prime Minister of India stating the demand to repeal AFSPA and immediate release of Irom Sharmila, quashing charges of section 309 from her from cases lodged in Manipur and Delhi. Memorandum also states the BJP state leadership promise of repealing AFSPA that was done before parliamentary elections.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0.0001pt;text-align:justify;background-image:initial;background-repeat:initial"><span style="font-family:Arial,sans-serif"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0.0001pt;text-align:justify;background-image:initial;background-repeat:initial"><span style="font-family:Arial,sans-serif">We all believe that democracy must listen to the voice of people and must not ignore such demands that are largely towards the objective of better governance and more humane society. We also hope that more and more people will also come in support of the demand and we will raise our demand more strongly and loudly with our peaceful campaigning and advocacy. </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0.0001pt;text-align:justify;background-image:initial;background-repeat:initial"><span style="font-family:Arial,sans-serif"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0.0001pt;text-align:justify;background-image:initial;background-repeat:initial"><span style="font-family:Arial,sans-serif">Armed Forces Special Powers Act (AFSPA) provides extraordinary powers to security forces without any accountability. They can shoot to kill on mere suspicion and even no inquiry or prosecution can be done due to impunity granted in the act. Many cases have been reported, but nothing could be done. It is like ‘Emergency’ situation at all time and making this abnormal environment as normal for people living in AFSPA imposed regions, who in turn facing serious problems of human rights violations as well as effect on their psychology and behavior. Under this law, a security personal itself work as judge and executor and replace democratic arrangements of administration. </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0.0001pt;text-align:justify;background-image:initial;background-repeat:initial"><span style="font-family:Arial,sans-serif"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0.0001pt;text-align:justify;background-image:initial;background-repeat:initial"><b><span style="font-family:Arial,sans-serif">Ravi Nitesh from Save Sharmila Solidarity Campaign</span></b><span style="font-family:Arial,sans-serif"> told, “The vicious cycle of arrest of Irom Sharmila is shameful and undemocratic. Instead of focusing on her demand, her issue, the Government is only responding by arresting her. It is shameful that in these 15 years, the “concerned” Govt. of both state and centre have not made a single attempt to open talks with her.” “The Govt. must also know that by arresting her, they cannot suppress her thoughts, her ideology,”</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0.0001pt;text-align:justify;background-image:initial;background-repeat:initial"><span style="font-family:Arial,sans-serif"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0.0001pt;text-align:justify;background-image:initial;background-repeat:initial"><b><span style="font-family:Arial,sans-serif">Kashif Ahmed faraz from Association for Protection of Civil Rights </span></b><span style="font-family:Arial,sans-serif">said “She is being arrested on the claim of attempting suicide while she has always refuted this claim. She has re-iterated several times that she loves her life and is only demanding rights, equality and justice for everyone. Why doesn’t the Govt focus on the reason, on her statement?”</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0.0001pt;text-align:justify;background-image:initial;background-repeat:initial"><span style="font-family:Arial,sans-serif"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0.0001pt;text-align:justify;background-image:initial;background-repeat:initial"><b><span style="font-family:Arial,sans-serif">Devika Mittal, Core member of Save Sharmila Campaign and Research student </span></b><span style="font-family:Arial,sans-serif">remarked, "It is a shame that this state which claims to talk about women's rights has such a law that gives shield to rapists. But this is not just the hypocrisy of the student but also the people. What about India's daughters in North-east and Kashmir?"</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0.0001pt;text-align:justify;background-image:initial;background-repeat:initial"><span style="font-family:Arial,sans-serif"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0.0001pt;text-align:justify;background-image:initial;background-repeat:initial"><b><span style="font-family:Arial,sans-serif">S. Raghavan from Lokraj Sangathan</span></b><span style="font-family:Arial,sans-serif"> told that it is unfortunate in a democracy like India that claims of being biggest democracy, that state always keep such draconian laws like AFSPA, UAPA etc. He said that we have witnessed that state just modify one and apply another and these laws violate the very nature and value of democracy itself. </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0.0001pt;text-align:justify;background-image:initial;background-repeat:initial"><span style="font-family:Arial,sans-serif"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0.0001pt;text-align:justify;background-image:initial;background-repeat:initial"><b><span style="font-family:Arial,sans-serif">Lenin Raghuvanshi from PVCHR (Varanasi)</span></b><span style="font-family:Arial,sans-serif"> told that it is unfortunate to see that how even after 15 years, government has done almost nothing, but we are hopeful in democracy and believe that our struggle will be listened one day. </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0.0001pt;text-align:justify;background-image:initial;background-repeat:initial"><span style="font-family:Arial,sans-serif"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0.0001pt;text-align:justify;background-image:initial;background-repeat:initial"><b><span style="font-family:Arial,sans-serif">Social Activist Dipak Dholakia</span></b><span style="font-family:Arial,sans-serif"> said that AFSPA cannot be justified and has no place in a country that claims to be modelled on the ideals of democracy and humanity. AFSPA is an inhuman law. The gross violations of AFSPA has been proved by Government's own commissions, the judiciary and international and national human rights organisations. </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0.0001pt;text-align:justify;background-image:initial;background-repeat:initial"><span style="font-family:Arial,sans-serif"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0.0001pt;text-align:justify;background-image:initial;background-repeat:initial"><b><span style="font-family:Arial,sans-serif">Social activist Navaid Hamid (Secretary, Peoples Integration Council)</span></b><span style="font-family:Arial,sans-serif"> was also participated and expressed his solidarity for Irom Sharmila. He told that we need to become louder and need to do as much as we can to raise the voice. </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0.0001pt;text-align:justify;background-image:initial;background-repeat:initial"><span style="font-family:Arial,sans-serif"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0.0001pt;text-align:justify;background-image:initial;background-repeat:initial"><b><span style="font-family:Arial,sans-serif">Shihad from SIO </span></b><span style="font-family:Arial,sans-serif">told that AFSPA has violated human rights. Thousands of fake killings were reported. But unfortunately, it is more wondering that even rapes were done by security forces in these regions but no criminal inquiry could be set us due to impunity granted to security personals under AFSPA.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0.0001pt;background-image:initial;background-repeat:initial"><span style="font-family:Arial,sans-serif"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0.0001pt;text-align:justify;background-image:initial;background-repeat:initial"><b><span style="font-family:Arial,sans-serif">Madhvi Bansal</span></b><span style="font-family:Arial,sans-serif"> who recently graduated from Delhi University and associated with social activities told “It is shameful that that they can only see her as a law offender but not as a victim. It is shameful that in this democracy, the victim is imprisoned instead of the culprit. AFSPA is the culprit and this has been established by Govt-appointed committees, national and international human rights’ organizations and even judiciary. ” </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0.0001pt;text-align:justify;background-image:initial;background-repeat:initial"><span style="font-family:Arial,sans-serif"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0.0001pt;text-align:justify;background-image:initial;background-repeat:initial"><span style="font-family:Arial,sans-serif">Many youth activists participated in this hungers strike. It was seen that young professionals and students are joining the movements and developing a democratic way of creating a culture that respect human rights. Civil Engineer Arvind Lodi, Architect Madhuri Mittal, Engineering graduate Vikas Suryavanshi , Research scholar Sanjana Arya were few of them who marked their presence. Youth activists Ghazanafar Abbas, Ovais, Deepak Chaudhary, Birju Nayak also participated. </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0.0001pt;text-align:justify;background-image:initial;background-repeat:initial"><span style="font-family:Arial,sans-serif"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0.0001pt;text-align:justify;background-image:initial;background-repeat:initial"><span style="font-family:Arial,sans-serif">What can be more shameful than the fact that from the start of hunger strike of irom Sharmila in the year 2000 till the year 2011, even the most recognized institution of human rights in India, that is NHRC, did not visit Manipur or Irom Sharmila to know the situation? SSSC received it in a RTI response in the year 2011. Recently in last year, NHRC delegation visited Manipur and also passed instructions to let Sharmila meet with people, But nothing concrete was done on its end. In our view, such agencies of human rights must work actively as pro people- pro democracy.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0.0001pt;text-align:justify;background-image:initial;background-repeat:initial"><span style="font-family:Arial,sans-serif"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0.0001pt;text-align:justify;background-image:initial;background-repeat:initial"><span style="font-family:Arial,sans-serif">If we talk about J&K, we see that thousands of persons are disappeared, military density is one of the highest, mass graves are found and even electricity protests were faced bullets. We have seen that in Pathribal case, even after CBI investigation and Supreme Court intervention and instructions for court martial of accused personals, nothing was done. Situation in Manipur and other areas of north east also the same. Courts ordered for compensations to victim families, but could not provide justice yet.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0.0001pt;text-align:justify;background-image:initial;background-repeat:initial"><span style="font-family:Arial,sans-serif"><br> SSSC, APCR, LRS, SIO believes that AFSPA must be repealed as an immediate measure. It should be noted that even government's own committees have recommended the measures to do the same. The continuous violation must need to stop. Also, Government must come forward to express its 'willing' attitude of resolving the problem rather than ignoring the peaceful and non violent struggle of Irom Sharmila. We considers Irom Sharmila as its leader and will always stand for her support for the very cause of truth, justice, humanity and peace. At the same time, we demand with the government to remove the case of 'attempt to suicide' from her and to make her free to communicate with her supporters. Until the demands will be fulfilled, the struggle and demonstrations will continue . </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0.0001pt;background-image:initial;background-repeat:initial"><span style="font-family:Arial,sans-serif"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0.0001pt;background-image:initial;background-repeat:initial"><b><span style="font-family:Arial,sans-serif">Issued By:</span></b><span style="font-family:Arial,sans-serif"></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0.0001pt;background-image:initial;background-repeat:initial"><span style="font-family:Arial,sans-serif">Save Sharmila Solidarity Campaign (SSSC)</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0.0001pt;background-image:initial;background-repeat:initial"><span style="font-family:Arial,sans-serif">Association for Protection of Civil Rights (APCR)</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0.0001pt;background-image:initial;background-repeat:initial"><span style="font-family:Arial,sans-serif">Lok Raj Sangathan</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0.0001pt;background-image:initial;background-repeat:initial"><span style="font-family:Arial,sans-serif">Students Islamic Organisation of India (SIO)</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0.0001pt;line-height:12.65pt"><br></p></div></div></div> Repeal AFSPAhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07952352387600992296noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5281067201459315139.post-20409894634803559232015-03-14T19:45:00.002+05:302015-03-14T19:45:27.203+05:30Birth Anniversay of Irom Sharmila was observed with Hunger Strike and Demand for Repeal AFSPA<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIBcF68QiawjjLfhfw3uUQUOrUIV8OST9zLOuOE1O30WNyoCxa_J-Z1zwikF11MI84wgWOh7CoA4IZgjetpl12DO1pn3XOX3-1BK_nJyixBjZzYQO3oo0BM-DBB3iFRUOWzLHvj_uOc6sn/s1600/One+day+solidarity+fast+for+Irom+Sharmila+at+Jantar+Mantar.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIBcF68QiawjjLfhfw3uUQUOrUIV8OST9zLOuOE1O30WNyoCxa_J-Z1zwikF11MI84wgWOh7CoA4IZgjetpl12DO1pn3XOX3-1BK_nJyixBjZzYQO3oo0BM-DBB3iFRUOWzLHvj_uOc6sn/s1600/One+day+solidarity+fast+for+Irom+Sharmila+at+Jantar+Mantar.JPG" height="425" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif;">A day long fast was organized here in Delhi
on the call of Save Sharmila Solidarity Campaign, Association of Protection of
Civil Rights, Lok Raj Sangathan and Students Islamic Organisation of India to
support Irom Sharmila and to demand repeal of AFSPA. Many people
participated and observed the hunger strike. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif;">It
was also informed by supporters in Mumbai, Panipat, Lucknow and even
from Korea that on our call, some people observed fast at their
workplace and
home, to express solidarity with Irom Sharmila.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif;">It was birth date of Irom Sharmila, as she
was born on 14<sup>th</sup> March 1972 and now after 42 years, she
inspired so many people across the world through her non violent struggle that
she started 15 years ago at the age of 28. She is on hunger strike and her fast
has become longest hunger strike. She motivates each one of us through her
faith in democracy. We believe that on this day, this is the least that we can
do for expressing our solidarity. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif;">Organisers also submitted memorandum to
Prime Minister of India stating the demand to repeal AFSPA and immediate
release of Irom Sharmila, quashing charges of section 309 from her from cases
lodged in Manipur and Delhi. Memorandum also states the BJP state leadership
promise of repealing AFSPA that was done before parliamentary elections.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif;">We all believe that democracy must listen
to the voice of people and must not ignore such demands that are largely towards
the objective of better governance and more humane society. We also hope that
more and more people will also come in support of the demand and we will raise
our demand more strongly and loudly with our peaceful campaigning and
advocacy. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif;">Armed Forces Special Powers Act (AFSPA)
provides extraordinary powers to security forces without any accountability.
They can shoot to kill on mere suspicion and even no inquiry or prosecution can
be done due to impunity granted in the act. Many cases have been reported, but
nothing could be done. It is like ‘Emergency’ situation at all time and making
this abnormal environment as normal for people living in AFSPA imposed regions,
who in turn facing serious problems of human rights violations as well as
effect on their psychology and behavior. Under this law, a security personal
itself work as judge and executor and replace democratic arrangements of
administration. </span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif;">Ravi Nitesh from Save Sharmila Solidarity
Campaign</span></b><span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif;"> told, “The vicious cycle
of arrest of Irom Sharmila is shameful and undemocratic. Instead of focusing on
her demand, her issue, the Government is only responding by arresting her. It
is shameful that in these 15 years, the “concerned” Govt. of both state and
centre have not made a single attempt to open talks with her.” “The Govt. must
also know that by arresting her, they cannot suppress her thoughts, her
ideology,”</span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif;">Kashif Ahmed faraz from Association for Protection
of Civil Rights </span></b><span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif;">said
“She is being arrested on the claim of attempting suicide while she has always
refuted this claim. She has re-iterated several times that she loves her life
and is only demanding rights, equality and justice for everyone. Why doesn’t
the Govt focus on the reason, on her statement?”</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif;"><b>Devika Mittal, Core member of Save Sharmila Campaign and Research student </b>remarked,
"It is a shame that this state which claims to talk about women's
rights has such a law that gives shield to rapists. But this is not just
the hypocrisy of the student but also the people. What about India's
daughters in North-east and Kashmir?"</span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif;">S. Raghavan from Lokraj Sangathan</span></b><span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif;"> told that it is unfortunate in a democracy
like India that claims of being biggest democracy, that state always keep such
draconian laws like AFSPA, UAPA etc. He said that we have witnessed that state
just modify one and apply another and these laws violate the very nature and
value of democracy itself. </span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif;">Lenin Raghuvanshi from PVCHR (Varanasi)</span></b><span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif;"> told that it is unfortunate to see that
how even after 15 years, government has done almost nothing, but we are hopeful
in democracy and believe that our struggle will be listened one day. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif;"><b>Social Activist Dipak Dholakia</b>
said that AFSPA cannot be justified and has no place in a country that
claims to be modelled on the ideals of democracy and humanity. AFSPA is
an inhuman law. The gross violations of AFSPA has been proved by
Government's own commissions, the judiciary and international and
national human rights organisations. </span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif;">Social activist Navaid Hamid (Secretary,
Peoples Integration Council)</span></b><span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif;">
was also participated and expressed his solidarity for Irom Sharmila. He told
that we need to become louder and need to do as much as we can to raise the
voice. </span></div>
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<b><span style="color: #141823; font-family: Arial,sans-serif;">Shihad from SIO </span></b><span style="color: #141823; font-family: Arial,sans-serif;">told that AFSPA has violated human rights.
Thousands of fake killings were reported. But unfortunately, it is more
wondering that even rapes were done by security forces in these regions but no
criminal inquiry could be set us due to impunity granted to security personals
under AFSPA.</span><span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif;"></span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif;">Madhvi Bansal</span></b><span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif;"> who recently graduated from Delhi
University and associated with social activities told “It is shameful
that </span><span style="color: #141823; font-family: Arial,sans-serif;">that they can only see
her as a law offender but not as a victim. It is shameful that in this
democracy, the victim is imprisoned instead of the culprit. AFSPA is the
culprit and this has been established by Govt-appointed committees, national
and international human rights’ organizations and even judiciary. ” </span><span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif;"></span></div>
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<span style="color: #141823; font-family: Arial,sans-serif;">Many youth activists participated in this
hungers strike. It was seen that young professionals and students are joining
the movements and developing a democratic way of creating a culture that
respect human rights. Civil Engineer Arvind Lodi, Architect Madhuri Mittal,
Engineering graduate Vikas Suryavanshi , Research scholar Sanjana Arya were few
of them who marked their presence. Youth activists Ghazanafar Abbas, Deepak
Chaudhary, Birju Nayak also participated. </span><span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif;"></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif;">What can be more shameful than the fact
that from the start of hunger strike of irom Sharmila in the year 2000 till the
year 2011, even the most recognized institution of human rights in India, that
is NHRC, did not visit Manipur or Irom Sharmila to know the situation? SSSC
received it in a RTI response in the year 2011. Recently in last year, NHRC
delegation visited Manipur and also passed instructions to let Sharmila meet
with people, But nothing concrete was done on its end. In our view, such
agencies of human rights must work actively as pro people- pro democracy.</span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif;">If we talk about J&K, we see that
thousands of persons are disappeared, military density is one of the highest,
mass graves are found and even electricity protests were faced bullets. We have
seen that in Pathribal case, even after CBI investigation and Supreme Court
intervention and instructions for court martial of accused personals, nothing
was done. Situation in Manipur and other areas of north east also the same.
Courts ordered for compensations to victim families, but could not provide
justice yet.</span></div>
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<span style="color: #141823; font-family: Arial,sans-serif;"><br />
</span><span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif;">SSSC, APCR, LRS, SIO
believes that AFSPA must be repealed as an immediate measure. It should be
noted that even government's own committees have recommended the measures to do
the same. The continuous violation must need to stop. Also, Government must
come forward to express its 'willing' attitude of resolving the problem rather
than ignoring the peaceful and non violent struggle of Irom Sharmila. We
considers Irom Sharmila as its leader and will always stand for her support for
the very cause of truth, justice, humanity and peace. At the same time, we demand
with the government to remove the case of 'attempt to suicide' from her and to
make her free to communicate with her supporters. Until the demands will be
fulfilled, the struggle and demonstrations will continue.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif;"> </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif;"></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif;"></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif;"><b>Issued By:</b></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif;">Save Sharmila Solidarity
Campaign (SSSC)</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif;">Association for
Protection of Civil Rights (APCR)</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif;">Lok Raj Sangathan</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif;">Students Islamic
Organisation of India (SIO)</span></div>
</div>
Repeal AFSPAhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07952352387600992296noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5281067201459315139.post-14143096407499467742015-03-13T11:54:00.001+05:302015-03-13T11:54:41.224+05:30Join Hunger Strike 14 March: Repeal AFSPA , Release Irom Sharmila<div dir="ltr"><div class="gmail_quote"><div dir="ltr"><div style="text-align:center;font-size:12.8000001907349px"><b>Day Long Fast in Solidarity with Irom Sharmila</b></div><div style="text-align:center;font-size:12.8000001907349px"><b>14 March : 10 AM to 4 PM</b></div><div style="text-align:center;font-size:12.8000001907349px"><b>JANTAR MANTAR, NEW DELHI </b></div><div style="font-size:12.8000001907349px"><br></div><div style="font-size:12.8000001907349px"><b><font color="#0000ff">TAKE YOUR ACTION NOW:</font></b></div><div style="font-size:12.8000001907349px"><br></div><div style="font-size:12.8000001907349px"><ul><li><b><span style="font-size:12.8000001907349px">Join Solidarity fast tomorrow at Jantar Mantar</span><br></b></li><li><b><span style="font-size:12.8000001907349px">Organise solidarity fast in your state</span><br></b></li><li><b><span style="font-size:12.8000001907349px">Observe fast at your home/workplace </span><br></b></li><li><b><span style="font-size:12.8000001907349px">Endorse the statement attached </span><br></b></li><li><span style="font-size:12.8000001907349px"><b>Forward this message to others for taking action </b></span><br></li></ul></div><div style="font-size:12.8000001907349px"><span style="font-size:12.8000001907349px"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJJ0GaF0SYsn9ZMAUTqqPViXWxG3xYdsBjHt0H7jmqsVV6jIKAXpURNzqSN1ILpoDJVw4wYhj2nBwHJgrJyJlPVODqoTb6YzAJmzP9hbNLCL9Uwo4p5LsiqP8FYe7FA94rtmAqxlJoeJy3/s1600/1irome-781225.png"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJJ0GaF0SYsn9ZMAUTqqPViXWxG3xYdsBjHt0H7jmqsVV6jIKAXpURNzqSN1ILpoDJVw4wYhj2nBwHJgrJyJlPVODqoTb6YzAJmzP9hbNLCL9Uwo4p5LsiqP8FYe7FA94rtmAqxlJoeJy3/s320/1irome-781225.png" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_6125602109254262114" /></a><br><br></span></div><div style="font-size:12.8000001907349px"><span style="font-size:12.8000001907349px">We invite you to join a day long solidarity fast at Jantar Mantar on 14 March to demand Government of India to release Irom Sharmila and to repeal AFSPA. </span><br></div><div style="font-size:12.8000001907349px"><br></div><div style="font-size:12.8000001907349px">14th March is birth date of Irom Sharmila. She inspired so many people through her struggle that is towards peace, demand for justice and being observed through her non violent protest that has become one of the longest hunger strike of this world. </div><div style="font-size:12.8000001907349px"><br></div><div style="font-size:12.8000001907349px">On this day, our solidarity through fast is the least that we can do in respect of the cause for which she is on hunger protest since last 15 years. We are living in this biggest democracy and witnessing this longest hunger strike for strengthening democratic values. </div><div style="font-size:12.8000001907349px"><br></div><div style="font-size:12.8000001907349px">We also know that how AFSPA is a 'killer' law and draconian in its nature. It not only approves shoot to kill on mere suspicion, but also provide impunity to security forces for being prosecuted against any such action. It is unfortunate to share that thousands of fake killings and even rapes reported and committed by security forces in AFSPA imposed regions of North East and J&K. </div><div style="font-size:12.8000001907349px"><br></div><div style="font-size:12.8000001907349px">We also appeal everyone else who cannot participate in the hunger protest at Delhi, that individuals may observe it at their home or workplace and can send us their emails, messages, pictures in support so that it can get disseminated among others. It is like creating a positive wave of inspiration. </div><div style="font-size:12.8000001907349px"><br></div><div style="font-size:12.8000001907349px"><span style="font-size:12.8000001907349px">Please join tomorrow. </span><br></div><div style="font-size:12.8000001907349px"><br></div><div style="font-size:12.8000001907349px"><b>For any query, contact: Ravi Nitesh (9958907799), Kashif Ahmed Faraz (8802879246), Hidam Peter (8750920261)</b></div><div style="font-size:12.8000001907349px"><br></div><div style="font-size:12.8000001907349px"><br></div><div style="text-align:center;font-size:12.8000001907349px"><b><u><font color="#0000ff">FOR ENDORSEMENT: Memorandum to Prime Minister of India</font></u></b></div><div style="font-size:12.8000001907349px"><b><u><br></u></b></div><div><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-size:12.8000001907349px;margin-bottom:0.0001pt;text-align:justify;background-image:initial;background-repeat:initial"><span style="font-size:9.5pt;font-family:Arial,sans-serif">Irom Sharmila or the Iron lady of Manipur, has entered the 15<sup>th</sup>year of her hunger-strike against AFSPA. For 15 years, she has been pleading for humanity. Her struggle of 15 years shows her relentless faith in the democratic institutions. She is hopeful that someday the Government will listen to her. She is a true democrat yet her democratic way of protest is being ignored in the ‘World’s largest democracy’. It is a shame for democracy and government that it is ignoring such a heroic and non violent struggle. We, at SSSC, condemn the action of government in this regard and on the other hand, when we see the tireless efforts of people of AFSPA imposed areas who are continuously struggling against this inhumane law and trying to live their life, we salute their efforts for justice and democracy. We see the true democracy in these people’s struggle rather than in the government that is largely acted as deaf and ignorant over such an important issue that is associated with its own citizen’s lives.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="font-size:12.8000001907349px;margin-bottom:0.0001pt;text-align:justify;background-image:initial;background-repeat:initial"><span style="font-size:9.5pt;font-family:Arial,sans-serif"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0.0001pt;text-align:justify;background-image:initial;background-repeat:initial"><font face="Arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size:9.5pt">We believe that making a democracy more accountable and transparent, more responsible and generous is a collective responsibility of all of us. We also appeal with top officials of army, security agencies and decision makers to take a kind note on ill-effects of this act. They must take note that how they should be more concerned about it and must see that this act is not appropriate and humane. Army and security agencies are formed with the very objective to provide a safe and secure environment to people and at that level this act has been utilized in such a way that it only became a tool to play with people’s lives knowingly or unknowingly. System must be defined in such a way that nobody can take benefit of this and a stringent vigil must be there to make our </span><span style="font-size:12.6666669845581px">implementer</span><span style="font-size:9.5pt"> more accountable. AFSPA lacks all such efforts. People who are living in AFSPA imposed areas have faced various problems and their complaints have not been registered, their cases have not been lodged and investigated at many levels. All these things not only lead to make a gap between security agencies and people.</span></font></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="font-size:12.8000001907349px;margin-bottom:0.0001pt;text-align:justify;background-image:initial;background-repeat:initial"><span style="font-size:9.5pt;font-family:Arial,sans-serif"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="font-size:12.8000001907349px;margin-bottom:0.0001pt;text-align:justify;background-image:initial;background-repeat:initial"><span style="font-size:9.5pt;font-family:Arial,sans-serif">AFSPA which has been existing for 60 years now has devastated the affected regions. There has been gross violation of human rights in these areas. With arbitrary powers and legal impunity granted to armed forces, AFSPA has led to extra-judicial killings, fake encounters, rapes and torture of civilians. AFSPA challenges the basic fundamental rights enshrined in the Constitution of India. It has become a political issue in which the only sufferers are the common people.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="font-size:12.8000001907349px;margin-bottom:0.0001pt;text-align:justify;background-image:initial;background-repeat:initial"><span style="font-size:9.5pt;font-family:Arial,sans-serif"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="font-size:12.8000001907349px;margin-bottom:0.0001pt;text-align:justify;background-image:initial;background-repeat:initial"><span style="font-size:9.5pt;font-family:Arial,sans-serif">In this regard, we appeal the present BJP led government to fulfill its promises of restoring humanity in Manipur. During the elections, the Manipur unit of BJP had declared that if voted to power in centre, the undemocratic and arbitrary law of the Armed Forces Special Powers Act (AFSPA) will be repealed. Even news reports are available in this regard. So now that you have been bestowed with the trust of the people to restore humanity, we appeal to keep your word and take the humane decision to repeal AFSPA.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="font-size:12.8000001907349px;margin-bottom:0.0001pt;text-align:justify;background-image:initial;background-repeat:initial"><span style="font-size:9.5pt;font-family:Arial,sans-serif"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="font-size:12.8000001907349px;margin-bottom:0.0001pt;text-align:justify;background-image:initial;background-repeat:initial"><span style="font-size:9.5pt;font-family:Arial,sans-serif">Irom Sharmila has been charged with the attempt to commit suicide but that is wrong. It was not suicide, it is a great sacrifice, a struggle for humanity. In her court trials and in interviews, she has said that she loves her life and is only demanding that the fundamental rights that are granted in the constitution should be extended to people in North-East India. Sir, Irom Sharmila was not a social activist. She was not even a direct victim of the law. Yet, she is on a hunger-strike for 14 years. And she is not alone. We are a part of the Save Sharmila Solidarity Campaign, a nation-wide protest against the neglect and suppression of Irom Sharmila. For over three years now, the campaign has been organizing public demonstrations, awareness programmes in colleges, signature campaigns in about 20 states and nation-wide rallies to spread the word about her and her struggle. From all these, we have gathered that people are sympathetic towards her, her cause. People believe in her. The Supreme Court, NHRC, several national and international human rights’ organizations have also regarded AFSPA to be a draconian law. Even the government’s own committees like Jeevan Reddy committee recommended already for its repeal, Justice Verma committee that was formed after Delhi Rape case (Nirbhaya case) had also recognized the sexual violence that happens under the garb of AFSPA and had recommended that these sexual violence cases should be treated in the same way as sexual violence cases in non-AFSPA states.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="font-size:12.8000001907349px;margin-bottom:0.0001pt;text-align:justify;background-image:initial;background-repeat:initial"><span style="font-size:9.5pt;font-family:Arial,sans-serif"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="font-size:12.8000001907349px;margin-bottom:0.0001pt;text-align:justify;background-image:initial;background-repeat:initial"><span style="font-size:9.5pt;font-family:Arial,sans-serif">AFSPA does not have the mandate of the people. In regard to democracy and humanity, we demand that:</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-size:12.8000001907349px;margin-bottom:0.0001pt;text-align:justify;background-image:initial;background-repeat:initial"><span style="font-size:9.5pt;font-family:Arial,sans-serif"><br></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="font-size:12.8000001907349px;text-align:justify;background-image:initial;background-repeat:initial"><span style="font-size:7pt;font-family:'Times New Roman',serif"> </span><b><span style="font-size:9.5pt;font-family:Arial,sans-serif">Immediate steps to Repeal AFSPA from all regions of North east and J&K.</span></b><span style="font-size:9.5pt;font-family:Arial,sans-serif"></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-size:12.8000001907349px;text-align:justify;background-image:initial;background-repeat:initial"><b><span style="font-size:9.5pt;font-family:Arial,sans-serif"><br></span></b></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="font-size:12.8000001907349px;background-image:initial;background-repeat:initial"><b><span style="font-size:9.5pt;font-family:Arial,sans-serif">Charges of 'commit to suicide' must be taken back from Irom Sharmila Chanu and she must be set free. Her fast is for the life, and not against life in anyway, also it is for the society and not for any personal reason. With the interim relief, Government must order to remove charges of section 309 (attempt to suicide case) from New Delhi and Manipur both places and must set her free to meet people like any normal citizen can. </span></b><span style="font-size:9.5pt;font-family:Arial,sans-serif"></span></p></div><div style="font-size:12.8000001907349px"><br></div><div style="font-size:12.8000001907349px"><br></div><div style="font-size:12.8000001907349px"><i><b>Send your endorsments at: <a href="mailto:savesharmila@gmail.com" target="_blank">savesharmila@gmail.com</a> or <a href="mailto:ravinitesh@gmail.com" target="_blank">ravinitesh@gmail.com</a> by today. </b></i></div><div style="font-size:12.8000001907349px"><i><b><br></b></i></div><div style="font-size:12.8000001907349px">Endorsed By:</div><div style="font-size:12.8000001907349px">Ravi Nitesh</div><div style="font-size:12.8000001907349px">Kashif Ahmed Faraz</div><div style="font-size:12.8000001907349px">Hidam Peter</div><div style="font-size:12.8000001907349px">Devika Mittal</div><div style="font-size:12.8000001907349px">Tanveer Ahmed</div><div style="font-size:12.8000001907349px">Zaheeb Ajmal</div><div style="font-size:12.8000001907349px">................................</div><div style="font-size:12.8000001907349px">..............................</div><div><div><div dir="ltr"><div dir="ltr"><div dir="ltr"><div dir="ltr"><div dir="ltr"><span class="HOEnZb"><font color="#888888"><div><br></div></font></span></div></div></div></div></div></div></div> </div> </div><br></div> Repeal AFSPAhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07952352387600992296noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5281067201459315139.post-6965306669758038052015-02-24T11:09:00.000+05:302015-02-24T11:10:03.636+05:30REPEALING AFSPA MUST BE ON PRIORITY OF PDP-BJP ALLIANCE: SSSC<div dir="ltr"><div class="gmail_quote"><div dir="ltr"><div class="gmail_quote"><div dir="ltr"><div class="gmail_quote"><div dir="ltr"><div class="gmail_quote"><div dir="ltr"><div>22 Feb. New Delhi, SSSC. <br></div><div><br></div><div><b>Published:</b></div><div><a href="http://greaterkashmir.com/news/2015/Feb/23/pdp-bjp-govt-must-repeal-afspa-sssc-21.asp" target="_blank">http://greaterkashmir.com/news/2015/Feb/23/pdp-bjp-govt-must-repeal-afspa-sssc-21.asp</a> <br></div><div><a href="http://www.hueiyenlanpao.com/headlines/item/27369-repealing-afspa-must-be-on-priority-of-pdp-bjp-alliance-in-j-k-sssc" target="_blank">http://www.hueiyenlanpao.com/headlines/item/27369-repealing-afspa-must-be-on-priority-of-pdp-bjp-alliance-in-j-k-sssc</a></div><div><a href="http://kanglaonline.com/2015/02/repealing-afspa-must-be-on-priority-of-pdpbjp-collaboration-sssc/" target="_blank">http://kanglaonline.com/2015/02/repealing-afspa-must-be-on-priority-of-pdpbjp-collaboration-sssc/</a> <br></div><div><a href="http://jammu.greaterkashmir.com/news/2015/Feb/23/pdp-bjp-govt-must-repeal-afspa-sssc-62.asp" target="_blank">http://jammu.greaterkashmir.com/news/2015/Feb/23/pdp-bjp-govt-must-repeal-afspa-sssc-62.asp</a> <br></div><div><a href="http://ifp.co.in/page/items/25462/repealing-afspa-must-be-on-priority-of-pdp-bjp-collaboration-sssc" target="_blank">http://ifp.co.in/page/items/25462/repealing-afspa-must-be-on-priority-of-pdp-bjp-collaboration-sssc</a><br></div><div><a href="http://www.manipur.org/news/2015/02/22/repealing-afspa-must-be-on-priority-of-pdpbjp-alliance-in-jk-sssc/" target="_blank">http://www.manipur.org/news/2015/02/22/repealing-afspa-must-be-on-priority-of-pdpbjp-alliance-in-jk-sssc/</a><br></div><div><a href="http://e-pao.net/GP.asp?src=26..230215.feb15" target="_blank">http://e-pao.net/GP.asp?src=26..230215.feb15</a> <br></div><div><a href="http://www.risingkashmir.com/afspa-repeal-must-be-priority-of-pdp-bjp-coalition-sssc/">http://www.risingkashmir.com/afspa-repeal-must-be-priority-of-pdp-bjp-coalition-sssc/</a> <br></div><div><br></div><div><br></div><div>With the speculations of forming of government in J&K in coming days through PDP-BJP collaboration, Save Sharmila Solidarity Campaign (SSSC) appeals leadership of the two parties to take AFSPA repeal demand on a serious note and on priority. </div><div><br></div><div>We, at SSSC believe that though collaboration may be an effort to provide stability of political situation in J&K, but the real objective of government formation, that is respecting people's mandate can be only done though Repeal of AFSPA as a top priority. </div><div><br></div><div>We see that joining hands of PDP and BJP was on hold due to few reasons and one of these includes AFSPA also, whereas at individual level, Repeal AFSPA can be not only beneficial for PDP but can also justify this collaboration that is being criticised by many. It is an opportunity for BJP also to respect rights of people. </div><div><br></div><div>On other side, BJP state leadership in Manipur had already promised to repeal AFSPA before parliamentary election but till now, nothing such action has been taken. Now, in J&K again, PDP and BJP again show that they negotiated and now agreed to have discussion of phase wise withdrawal of AFSPA. We, at SSSC see that this negotiation must not be only 'show off' and to pretend before people that parties care about them, instead there must be unconditioned phase withdrawal of AFSPA as a reality on ground. </div><div><br></div><div>People of J&K are suffering from serious human rights violations, AFSPA has recorded as one of worst acts of India and even many proved cases of fake and cold blooded killings, rapes and impunity counted under AFSPA have come before media, civil society, state and judiciary. But till now, the act is surviving. All the efforts of raising demands to its repeal have been failed till now before the rigidity of state. </div><div><br></div><div>Save Sharmila Solidarity Campaign is continuously working towards demand of Repeal AFSPA from all regions. SSSC appeals to these parties to start their day with repeal of AFSPA. SSSC appeals to people of J&K and leaders and civil society activists of state to come forward to pressurise these political leaders. </div><div><br></div><div>SSSC believe in positive politics that must be pro people and pro justice. AFSPA is against people, against democracy and against justice. We will continue our efforts towards its repeal. </div><div><br></div><div>FROM:</div><div>SAVE SHARMILA SOLIDARITY CAMPAIGN</div><div><a href="http://www.repealafspa.blogspot.com" target="_blank">www.repealafspa.blogspot.com</a> </div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div> Repeal AFSPAhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07952352387600992296noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5281067201459315139.post-15781679261198585992015-01-25T19:58:00.001+05:302015-01-25T19:58:40.448+05:30SSSC CONDEMNS RE-ARREST OF IROM SHARMILA<div dir="ltr"><div class="gmail_quote"><div dir="ltr"><div class="gmail_quote"><div dir="ltr"><div style="text-align:left"><p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style="margin-bottom:0.0001pt;text-align:center"><b><u><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:Arial,sans-serif">SSSC CONDEMNS RE-ARREST OF IROM SHARMILA</span></u></b><b><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:Arial,sans-serif"></span></b></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0.0001pt;text-align:justify"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:Arial,sans-serif"><br></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0.0001pt;text-align:justify"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:Arial,sans-serif">Published:</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0.0001pt;text-align:justify"><font face="Arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size:16px"><a href="http://e-pao.net/GP.asp?src=30..250115.jan15" target="_blank">http://e-pao.net/GP.asp?src=30..250115.jan15</a></span></font><br></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0.0001pt;text-align:justify"><font face="Arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size:16px"><a href="http://www.assamtimes.org/node/12880" target="_blank">http://www.assamtimes.org/node/12880</a> </span></font><br></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0.0001pt;text-align:justify"><font face="Arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size:16px"><a href="http://www.morungexpress.com/regional/127474.html" target="_blank">http://www.morungexpress.com/regional/127474.html</a> </span><br></font></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0.0001pt;text-align:justify"><font face="Arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size:16px"><a href="http://ifp.co.in/page/items/25069/sharmila-re-arrested-booked-under-the-same-charge-of-attempt-to-suicide" target="_blank">http://ifp.co.in/page/items/25069/sharmila-re-arrested-booked-under-the-same-charge-of-attempt-to-suicide</a> </span><br></font></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0.0001pt;text-align:justify"><font face="Arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size:16px"><a href="http://twocircles.net/2015jan24/1422106265.html#.VMT02dKum1s" target="_blank">http://twocircles.net/2015jan24/1422106265.html#.VMT02dKum1s</a> </span><br></font></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0.0001pt;text-align:justify"><font face="Arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size:16px"><br></span></font></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0.0001pt;text-align:justify"><br></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0.0001pt;text-align:justify"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:Arial,sans-serif">On 22nd January, a local court in Imphal ordered the release of Irom Sharmila by regarding the charge of "attempt to suicide" as baseless. However, Irom Sharmila has been re-arrested again and has been booked under the same charge of "attempt to suicide" under 309 IPC. </span><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:'Times New Roman',serif"></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0.0001pt;text-align:justify"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:Arial,sans-serif"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0.0001pt;text-align:justify"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:Arial,sans-serif">Save Sharmila Solidarity Campaign (SSSC), a nation-wide campaign in support of Irom Sharmila and against AFSPA, condemns the re-arrest. SSSC considers this re-arrest of Irom Sharmila as a mockery of judiciary by the state. While the judiciary had released her by quashing the charges of "attempt to suicide", the state has re-arrested her on the same grounds. </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0.0001pt;text-align:justify"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:Arial,sans-serif"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0.0001pt;text-align:justify"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:Arial,sans-serif">SSSC believes that it is a failure of state to resolve the issue of AFSPA and it is making Sharmila, a victim of state. At this time when few days ago, even the government said that it is considering the decriminalization of the 309 IPC, it seems that the state functionaries are trying to get the benefit till the time the government decriminalises it.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0.0001pt;text-align:justify"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:Arial,sans-serif"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0.0001pt;text-align:justify"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:Arial,sans-serif">SSSC appeals with Govt of India to intervene in the issue and to order immediate release of Sharmila. It also appeals that immediate steps should be taken to repeal AFSPA, the cause for which Irom Sharmila is protesting. </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0.0001pt;text-align:justify"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:Arial,sans-serif"><br></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0.0001pt;text-align:justify"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:Arial,sans-serif">AFSPA must be removed in view of large scale human rights violations. Even the state leadership of present ruling party in Central govt had favored in repealing of this act. The state unit of BJP had promised the repeal of AFSPA during the elections. </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0.0001pt;text-align:justify"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:Arial,sans-serif"><br> SSSC has organised and is continuing its efforts to highlight the issue and struggle of people in AFSPA imposed areas. SSSC has also sent letters and delegations to various authorities and appealed them to repeal this act, however SSSC is determined to initiative a major movement in coming days to protest against this act.<br clear="all"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0.0001pt;text-align:justify"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:Arial,sans-serif"><br></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0.0001pt;text-align:justify"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:Arial,sans-serif">Press Statement issued by</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0.0001pt;text-align:justify"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:Arial,sans-serif"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0.0001pt;text-align:justify"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:Arial,sans-serif">National Core Committee, </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0.0001pt;text-align:justify"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:Arial,sans-serif">Save Sharmila Solidarity Campaign </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0.0001pt;text-align:justify"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:Arial,sans-serif">(A Joint Initiative of Civil Society Organisations and Individuals in support of Irom Sharmila and against AFSPA)</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0.0001pt;text-align:justify"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:Arial,sans-serif"><a href="http://repealafspa.blogspot.in" target="_blank">http://repealafspa.blogspot.in</a><span><font color="#888888"> </font></span></span></p><span><font color="#888888"><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0.0001pt;text-align:justify"> <img src="http://www.e-paolive.net/galleries/images/misc/2012/07/Sharmila_20120711.jpg" width="96" height="72"><br></p></font></span></div><span><font color="#888888"><div dir="ltr"> <div><b>Save Sharmila Solidarity Campaign</b></div> <div><strong><font face="georgia, serif" size="1">(A joint initiative of various organizations & movements)</font></strong></div><div><font face="courier new, monospace" size="1"><strong>Blog: <a href="http://www.repealafspa.blogspot.com" target="_blank">www.repealafspa.blogspot.com</a> </strong></font></div><div><font face="courier new, monospace" size="1"><strong><a href="mailto:E-mail%3Asavesharmila@gmail.com" target="_blank">E-mail:savesharmila@gmail.com</a> </strong></font></div><div><font face="courier new, monospace" size="1"><strong>Facebook: Groups/savesharmilacampaign</strong></font></div> <div><font face="'Comic Sans MS'" size="1"><b><br></b></font></div> <div><strong><font size="1"></font></strong> </div> <div><font size="1">We welcome your participation/suggestion/feedbacks. </font></div></div></font></span></div></div></div> </div><br></div> Repeal AFSPAhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07952352387600992296noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5281067201459315139.post-70913332526886278912014-11-28T02:21:00.003+05:302014-11-28T02:21:51.528+05:30Article: Ten Cases under AFSPA that you should know about<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 15px;"><b>by Ravi Nitesh</b></span></span></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 15px;">This article was published on <a href="http://www.countercurrents.org/nitesh171114.htm">Countercurrents </a></span></span></div>
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<em><b><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt;">As recently, a court martial awarded life term to 7 persons of Indian army after a court of inquiry in Machil encounter case. The infamous draconian act Armed Forces Special Powers Act (AFSPA) and the impunity that it grants to security forces under which no prosecution can be held in any civil court without a prior sanction from Government of India has made the security forces a big hub for human rights violations. Besides Machil, there are many more cases, named and unnamed that need attention of government and judiciary because these cases are infamous for the atrocities performed by security forces.</span></b></em></div>
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<em><b><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt;">Here are few infamous cases, listed about which we all should know, in view of our sensitization towards human rights and how there are difficulties in ascertaining the punishment to security personals who are surviving with impunity. It is also evident that these atrocities are still continued. Though here are the selected cases only, there are hundreds and thousands of cases like these where human rights violations reported in areas where AFSPA is imposed (North East region and J&K).</span></b></em></div>
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<strong><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt;">Operation Blue Bird (Oinam, Bishunpur District, Manipur) :</span></strong><b><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt;"> </span></b><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt;">Operation Blue Bird was launched in 11 th July 1987 at Oinam of Manipur, where more than 30 naga villages covered and human rights violations including torture and even extrajudicial killings were done in addition to sexual harassment, theft and loot by security personals. In a petition filed by NPMHR, it was reported that many houses were burnt and dismantled, many women were tortured and people got killed in fake encounters. This operation was done for many days, whole area was kept isolated and in jailed condition where even civil administrative authorities were not permitted to move in. Cases were filed in courts, even registrar of a high court was denied to move in to record the statements, but so far nothing happened.</span></div>
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<strong><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt;">Kunan Poshpora (Kupwara District, J&K) :</span></strong><b><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt;"> </span></b><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt;">On 23 rd February 1991, a search operation was conducted by Indian army in Kunan Poshpora village of Kupwara district. During this search operation, around 100 women including pregnant women were allegedly raped by army persons in front of villagers. No clear inquiry was made by government. Later in the year 2014, the police officer who first visited the village to record testimony told that he was threatened many times to not to make report public. Government tried its best to make this case as ‘baseless' and on the other hand, Chief Justice of J&K high court in his findings told that he never saw such a case where even normal investigative procedures were ignored. A case is still running in Supreme Court of India on this issue.</span></div>
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<strong><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt;">Bijbehra firing (Anantnag district, J&K):</span></strong><b><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt;"> </span></b><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt;">On 22 October 1993, approximate 35 civilians got killed when BSF fired upon crowd during a protest. It was alleged that firing was unprovoked and done while the protest was peaceful. Magistrate inquiry and NHRC findings marked that the firing was unprovoked. J&K High Court also accepted the reports and findings and ordered for compensation to victims and their families. It is not clear if the case against BSF personals was sent to grant sanction for prosecution, but till now no such prosecution was done. </span></div>
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<strong><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt;">Malom (Imphal District, Manipur) :</span></strong><b><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt;"> </span></b><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt;">It was 2 nd November 2000, when at Malom, a place near Imphal, Assam Rifles fired upon 10 persons at a bus stand and they got killed. In these persons, even a 60 year old lady and 18 year old bravery award winner also got killed. This case sparked the anger in Manipur. Protest was organized. Irom Sharmila started her fast with demand to repeal the act AFSPA. However, still nothing happened. </span></div>
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<strong><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt;">Pathribal (Anantnag district, J&K) :</span></strong><b><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt;"> </span></b><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt;">On 25 th March 2000, at Pathribal in J&K, 5 civilians were picked up by Rashtriya Rifles and allegedly made as ‘foreign militants' and as the main accused persons who were responsible for Chhatisinghpura case. Local people protest against this and calimed that these were civilians and were not involved in any such activity. Initially, no case was lodged as defined with the impunity granted under AFSPA but later when protest erupts, CBI was asked to investigate the case. CBI in its investigation submitted report and found guilty a Brigadier, a Lt Col, two majors and a subedar of 7 Rashtriya Rifles for a staged encounter where civilians were picked up from Anantnag district . These encounters were told as ‘cold blooded murders'. Supreme Court of India, with findings of CBI told Indian army in the year 2011 for court martial, (as sanction for prosecution under civilian law could not be provided under AFSPA) , however after two years army closed the case with no actions on accused personals.</span></div>
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<strong><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt;">Manorama Killing (Imphal Distrcit, Manipur) :</span></strong><b><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt;"> </span></b><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt;">It was the night of 10 th July 2004, when Assam Rifles went to house of Manorama at Imphal, Manipur at night, tortured her at her house before her brother and mother, then picked her up. In the morning, dead body was found at Ngariyan Yairipok road with bullets injuries in her private parts. Massive protest was organized by people, even the infamous naked protest also happened but case under criminal charges could not be lodged. A local judicial inquiry was done but report was not made public. A PIL in Supreme Court of India is still going on but no verdict has been awarded yet. </span></div>
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<strong><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt;">Shopian Case (Shopian district, J&K)::</span></strong><b><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt;"> </span></b><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt;"> on 29 th May 2009 in Shopian (J&K), two women named Aasia (age approx 17) and Neelofar (age approx 22) went missing from their orchard on their way back to home. Their dead bodies found on next day morning. People alleged it as murder and rape by security forces who were camped nearby. Initially, no FIR was lodged and police told that postmortem report cleared injuries over private parts. However people believed that police report about postmortem is fake, protests were continued by people and later J&K govt formed a judicial panel. Under judicial inquiry, Forensic lab report established the gang rape of both the women. Besides few suspension and transfers from police department, nothing has happened in this case. </span></div>
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<strong><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt;">Mass Graves in J&K:</span></strong><b><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt;"> </span></b><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt;">In the year 2008-09, mass graves of approximate 3000 unmarked persons were found in Bandipora, Baramulla, Kupwara and other districts. It was believed that most of these graves may belong to people who has been killed and buried by security personals without any accountability under AFSPA. It was also believed that there may be persons who are reported as ‘disappeared', as thousands of cases of disappearances are recorded. State Human Rights Commission confirmed that thousands of bullet ridden bodies buried in unmarked graves. Some 500 bodies are identified as ‘locals' and not the ‘foreign militants' as it was told by security agencies. In spite of all cry and hue by human rights organizations and local people, no concrete action has been taken yet from the side of government. </span></div>
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<strong><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt;">Machil Encounter (Kupwara district, J&K) :</span></strong><b><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt;"> </span></b><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt;">On 30 th April 2010, three civilians of Baramulla (J&K) were shot by Indian army at Machil sector in Kupwara district of J&K and were framed as ‘foreign militants'. However, later with the protest and inquiry, it was established that these persons were civilians and were called by army to provide them jobs of porters and later were killed in a staged encounter. With the protest that erupted all over J&K as an anger of people and force used to suppress the protests, as many as 110 lives of civilians lost in the whole summer unrest of the year 2010. Indian army in its inquiry found them guilty and in November 2014 sentenced life imprisonment to two officers and five soldiers in the court martial for being guilty. It was told that these army personals murdered these civilians, painted their face black, had put the guns and told them ‘foreign militants' to get rewards and remunerations under ‘anti-militancy operations.' </span></div>
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<strong><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt;">1528 cases of extra judicial killings:</span></strong><b><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt;"> </span></b><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt;">In a write petition filed in Supreme Court of India (SCI), it was told that during May 1979 to May 2012 , approximate 1528 cases belongs to extra judicial killings. Supreme Court picked 6 random cases from the list and formed a high power commission under Justice (retd) Santosh Hegde and two others members to inquire about these 6 cases. Commission submitted its report to SCI stated that all 6 cases are found cases of fake encounters where no criminal records found for these persons who got killed. Case is still in SCI. </span></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt;"><i>Ravi Nitesh is founder of Mission Bhartiyam and member of National Core Committee of Save Sharmila Solidarity Campaign. He can be reached at ravinitesh@gmail.com</i></span></div>
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Repeal AFSPAhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07952352387600992296noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5281067201459315139.post-51869559120312197322014-11-09T20:43:00.000+05:302014-11-28T02:03:21.853+05:30Updates: 15th Year of Irom Sharmila's Fast against AFSPA<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">On 5th November, Irom Sharmila completed her 14 years and entered in 15th year of her fast against AFSPA (Armed Forces Special Powers Act). </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Few updates are:</span></div>
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<b><u><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">During 3rd to 5th November: Imphal, Manipur </span></u></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Save Sharmila Solidarity Campaign participated in media interaction and fast (on 5th Nov) at Imphal, Manipur. This was organised by May 18 Memorial Foundation, Korea; Asia Forum Bangkok and Just Peace Foundation-Manipur. Program was organised to express solidarity of Gwangju Laurets who participated in this event. These Gwangju Laurets include Warida Hafidz (Indonesia), Sushil Pyakurel (Nepal), Lenin Raghuvanshi and Dr Binayak Sen (India). Apart from these laurets few persons received special invitation to participate on collective decision of organisers. These persons included Geo Sung Kim (Chairperson-Transparency International-Korea), Prof Kwangsu Lee (Prof of Indian History in Korea and Co director - Solidarity for Peace and Human Rights in Asia), Amit Sen Gupta (Faculty Indian Institute of Mass Communication, Human Rights Activist India), Mukunda Kattel (Director-Asian Forum for Human Rights and Development-Thailand), Harsh Dobhal (Editor-Combat Law and Executive Director-Human Rights Law Network-Delhi), Lynn Jeong (Director-May 18 Foundation), Ravi Nitesh (Human Rights Activist and freelance writer - Delhi) and Raghu (Amnesty International). Local activists, specially Babloo, Rojesh, Basanta and Onil and members of civil society hosted the event and worked hard to spread the voice and participation of people. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">It was observed in Imphal that there is a huge support of Irom Sharmila in the state. In spite of the 'general observation' of solidarity with Irom and demand of repeal AFSPA as 'anti-state', it was seen that more than 15 schools of Imphal participated officially in the solidarity fast. School students participated in their uniform and they all were proud to be on fast. During my talk , I found that they all had permission from their parents and even in many cases, parents were also on fast while staying at home. Fast was organised at more than 10 places in Imphal itself and people participated in large numbers. In evening we also lit candles at Relay fast venue. Local media covered the solidarity event with huge response and other decisions were also taken to pressurise the government. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">We also visited 'Malom', the place where 10 persons got killed by firing of Assam Rifles in year 2000. We met with family of victims. We also met with family of Manorama Devi, who was raped and killed by Assam Rifles in year 2004. We also met with widows and families of persons of extra judicial killing. </span></div>
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<b><u><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">On 6th Nov at Jantar Mantar, New Delhi</span></u></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>A solidarity fast</b> was organised at New Delhi at Jantar Mantar by Save Sharmila Solidarity Campaign and other individuals and organisations. Many people participated in the fast including SSSC members and volunteers. This fast was coordinated by Devika Mittal (SSSC), Hidam Peter, Rajesh Mehta, Rajeev, Salaam Singh and others. A memorandum also submitted to President and Prime Minister. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><a href="http://twocircles.net/2014nov05/1415202491.html#.VF8zTzSUfJI" target="_blank">http://twocircles.net/2014nov05/1415202491.html#.VF8zTzSUfJI</a> </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>SSSC also sent a memorandum to Member of Parliaments</b> from North East and J&K and demanded to raise the issue in parliament as well as within their party. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>SSSC issued statement</b> to appeal with the government and demanded to repeal AFSPA. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Few newslinks of above mentioned activities:</span></div>
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<a href="http://e-pao.net/epSubPageExtractor.asp?src=news_section.Press_Release.Press_Release_2014.15th_Year_of_Heroic_Struggle_of_Irom_Sharmila_Shame_on_Government_Salute_to_People_20141105" target="_blank"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">E-pao</span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><a href="http://www.sentinelassam.com/northeast/story.php?sec=2&subsec=9&id=208266&dtP=2014-11-06&ppr=1" target="_blank">http://www.sentinelassam.com/northeast/story.php?sec=2&subsec=9&id=208266&dtP=2014-11-06&ppr=1</a> </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><a href="http://kanglaonline.com/2014/11/four-gwangju-award-recipients-join-state-in-showing-solidarity-to-sharmila/" target="_blank">http://kanglaonline.com/2014/11/four-gwangju-award-recipients-join-state-in-showing-solidarity-to-sharmila/</a> </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><a href="http://ifp.co.in/page/items/23842/four-gwangju-award-recipients-join-state-in-showing-solidarity-to-sharmila" target="_blank">http://ifp.co.in/page/items/23842/four-gwangju-award-recipients-join-state-in-showing-solidarity-to-sharmila</a> </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><a href="http://easternskymedia.co.in/irom-sharmila-enters-15-years-of-hunger-strike-public-staged-sit-in-protest-in-solidarity/" target="_blank">http://easternskymedia.co.in/irom-sharmila-enters-15-years-of-hunger-strike-public-staged-sit-in-protest-in-solidarity/</a> </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><a href="http://e-pao.net/GP.asp?src=19..061114.nov14" target="_blank">http://e-pao.net/GP.asp?src=19..061114.nov14</a> </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><a href="http://ifp.co.in/page/items/23842/four-gwangju-award-recipients-join-state-in-showing-solidarity-to-sharmila" target="_blank">http://ifp.co.in/page/items/23842/four-gwangju-award-recipients-join-state-in-showing-solidarity-to-sharmila</a> </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><a href="http://www.easternmirrornagaland.com/2014/11/15th-year-of-heroic-struggle-of-irom-sharmila-shame-on-government-salute-to-people/" target="_blank">http://www.easternmirrornagaland.com/2014/11/15th-year-of-heroic-struggle-of-irom-sharmila-shame-on-government-salute-to-people/</a> </span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Articles by Members:</span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">SSSC member Pankaj Pathak wrote an article: 4 Nov</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><a href="http://www.countercurrents.org/pathak031114.htm" target="_blank">http://www.countercurrents.org/pathak031114.htm</a> </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">SSSC member Ravi Nitesh wrote an article: 5 Nov </span></div>
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<a href="http://www.thesangaiexpress.com/page/items/44856/afspa-15th-year-of-non-violent-heroic-struggle-of-irom-sharmila-a-writing-to-salute-efforts-of-people" target="_blank"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">http://www.thesangaiexpress.com/page/items/44856/afspa-15th-year-of-non-violent-heroic-struggle-of-irom-sharmila-a-writing-to-salute-efforts-of-people</span></a></div>
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Repeal AFSPAhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07952352387600992296noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5281067201459315139.post-88518885649745566372014-11-09T20:37:00.000+05:302014-11-28T01:58:48.403+05:30One-Day Solidarity fast to mark 14 years of Irom Sharmila's struggle at Jantar Mantar<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<b style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; text-align: justify;">New Delhi: </b><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #141823;">On 5th November</span></span><span style="color: #141823; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">, Irom Sharmila entered her 15th year of hunger-strike against the draconian Armed Forces Special Powers Act(AFSPA) that has led to gross human rights' violations in North-East and Jammu & Kashmir. To mark the beginning of the 15<sup>th</sup> year of her struggle for democracy and justice, Save Sharmila Solidarity Campaign alongwith other like-minded organisations like Azaadi Bachao Aandolan, B P Mehta foundation and other human rights' groups and individuals observed a one-day solidarity fast at Jantar Mantar.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="color: #141823; font-family: Arial,sans-serif;">The solidarity hunger-strike and gathering included students, activists and senior Gandhians belonging from both North-east and other parts of India. </span>During the day-long gathering, students and activists from different organisations shared their views: </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Rajesh Mehta, one of the organisers, said “It is shocking that Irom Sharmila has gone unheard in the world’s largest democracy. Her belief and continued struggle shows that she is a true democrat. The Government should talk to her if they believe in the spirit of democracy.”</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Hidam Peter, a DU student, said “It is shameful that such a long hunger-strike has been going on in the land of Gandhi. While the state regards Mahatma Gandhi as the father of the nation, no attention has been paid to her true supporter.”</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Social Activist, Pawan Kumar Jain said “Irom Sharmila has become the symbol of anti-AFSPA. Her struggle has been recognized internationally but our own Government and some people remain apathetic. Instead of opening talks with her, she has been charged for “committing suicide”. The irony is that she is standing just for the opposite. She is standing for the right to life, the most basic right yet so hard to achieve in the world’s largest democracy.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Devika Mittal, core member of Save Sharmila Solidarity Campaign, argued that “Irom Sharmila is a prisoner of conscience while the state and everyone who supports AFSPA seems to have lost any conscience. AFSPA is not just a security law. We need to understand the politics behind it. Today, AFSPA has been caught in the blame game and in this, the common people are suffering.”</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">A memorandum was also submitted to the Prime Minister and the President of India demanding the repeal of AFSPA.</span></div>
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Repeal AFSPAhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07952352387600992296noreply@blogger.com0