Ninth Article in the article-series: Irom’s unmet demands: Government’s excuse, a political blasphemy to cover their failure in reinstating peace

As a recent move of Save Sharmila Solidarity Campaign (SSSC), a nationwide protest against the neglect and suppression of Irom Sharmila, is observing 12 Article series to reflect 12 years of suppression of Irom Sharmila's fast.

In this series one article per day will be published on its website and will be dedicated to one year fast of Irom.

This will conclude on 5th November, the day when Irom Sharmila will be unfortunately completing her 12 years of stuggle. 

Here's the ninth article:

Irom’s unmet demands: Government’s excuse, a political blasphemy to cover their failure in reinstating peace 

By Pankaj Pathak

Irom sharmila’s name symbolizes with sacrifice and compassion and truly she is unsung hero of not only India but also of world when it comes to peace and harmony. She is the sole torch bearer of values and path shown by Mahatma Gandhi, the father of nation for demanding one’s rights in most polite and democratic manner but still a victim of ignorance of nation and government which observes 2nd Oct as most auspicious day in history of our democracy and country. She in actual manner deserves a title as “Daughter of nation”, for her courage and grit for fighting on behalf of people’s causes while her life is on stake. Biographically, she has a name as civil rights activist and poet from Manipur, fasting from last 12 years with demand of  Armed Forces Special Powers Act (AFSPA) be repealed.  But another unnoticed human angle of her is that, she is also a lady who must have had dreams of living a life like every other woman. Ironically this dream for her became insignificant with an incidence happened in “Malom, Manipur, Nov, 2000” in which 10 innocent citizens including women and children were killed by Assam Rifles unit responding to an earlier attack by the armed insurgents against the Assam Rifles. This particular incidence has transformed the mind of Irom and she started her fast-to-death hunger strike thereafter. It has passed more than a decade but resolve and grit of the “Iron lady” remained intact with her demand of repealing AFSPA. This continuing struggle of her for the justice and rights of people shows the compassion and value of every human life in her heart and mind. However government is defying her demands and the toll of human casualty both of civilians and armed forces in insurgency hit states are on rise, reflecting the insensitivity for human life and lack of political will of every elected government to resolve the issue. The saddest part is that judiciary in which we still have faith is also looking hand in hand on this issue with government and amongst civil societies those who espoused Irom's demand have been appalled by zero reaction on the name of AFSPA being issue of a national security.

Induction of AFSPA was to restore order and discipline but instead it turned few arm-force personals autocratic with largesse of power. As a result of such unchecked empowerment, their actions no longer have redeeming values as acts of discipline, because they have done enough damage to respect for a societal institution of democracy, human rights and governance. Therefore the government should understand that reconsidering the AFSPA and paying heed to Irom’s demand would send a message across the insurgents of empowerment of the non violent and democratic manner of protest and demands for rightful causes.

Nevertheless, the military should also be part of decision making along with government and reaching to a permanent solution of insurgency hit areas as removal of AFSPA without consultation may adversely affect the moral of armed forces. However, it seems that some quarters of political fraternity and armed forces are not willing to resolve the problem for some political mileage and dragging the issue for decades and slowly making people’s mind to live with it as it’s never ending. But, we are fortunate to have the hope and inspiration in the form of Irom to fight and need to stand behind her and demand our rights of freedom to live a fearless life. The nation is ours, so the government and they need to listen to us as our demands are constitutional rights. For the sake of humanity, communal harmony, love, compassion and most importantly reclaiming our democratic and constitutional rights, we need to come together and fight for our demands along with Irom. I would also like to pay homage to the all the lives lost in insurgency and end up here with a inquisitive quote of Julian Assange, founder, spokesperson, internet activist, and editor in chief of WikiLeaks, “Every time we witness an injustice and do not act, we train our character to be passive in its presence and thereby eventually lose all ability to defend ourselves and those we love.”

Pankaj Pathak is a volunteer of Save Sharmila Solidarity Campaign. He is a core member of Mission Bhartiyam. He can be reached at pankgem@gmail.com

Also published at http://www.countercurrents.org/pathak021112.htm

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Eigth Article in the Article series: Irom - An inspiration for students

As a recent move of Save Sharmila Solidarity Campaign (SSSC), a nationwide protest against the neglect and suppression of Irom Sharmila, is observing 12 Article series to reflect 12 years of suppression of Irom Sharmila's fast.

In this series one article per day will be published on its website and will be dedicated to one year fast of Irom.

This will conclude on 5th November, the day when Irom Sharmila will be unfortunately completing her 12 years of stuggle. 

Here's the eigth article:

Irom: An inspiration for students

By Zaheeb Ajmal

This article is dedicated to Irom by a group of students from Patna.

Irom Chanu Sharmila, the crusader against AFSPA, who has been on hunger strike since 4th November 2000, is still unknown to the major part of India. On 5th May 2011, the day when we got to know about the Iron Lady of Manipur through a play, “Le Mashale”, performed by Ojas SV, we were in deep shock. It was an eye opener of the unexplored land of India. We have never been told about the problems and the torture the people of Manipur face each and every day. The play was heart touching and moved us so much that it instigated us to gather more knowledge about it and this consequently resulted in us joining the fight of the Iron Lady.

We decided to campaign in and around Patna and let people know about the North east and its problems. We slowly and steadily came to know about the hardcore realities. The draconian law has been imposed in the northeast since 1958, but it is shameful that very few among us knew about her. The media which is termed as the “fourth pillar of the democracy” has been partial in the case of Manipur. We had rarely seen any news channel reporting or any print media reporting about the protest going on in Manipur every day. We were stopped and questioned by senior countrymen, why are we bothering about Manipur? Are we from Manipur?  We were advised to worry about our city and state problems. Some were worried and lost their enthusiasm but it was Irom’s struggle that refilled the enthusiasm. They came back with more passion and dedication. These kids are from those groups who generally “don’t care” about the society and its worries. They proved us wrong and work day and night for the campaign because they think that the fight we have joined has to be fought till end and they think that AFSPA should be diluted.

After watching the play, Le Mashale, these students formed a group, named “Le Mashale” and organized an event on 1st July 2011 to aware the people of their city about the atrocities faced by people of Manipur. The number of people who attended it was unbelievable. It drew attention of media, activists of Patna. When asked about how they managed it, they said it is Irom struggle which gave us inspiration. They added, Why has society became so insensitive, where you care about a person who in 12 day fast but not even pay any heed to a person who is on 12 year hunger strike. Why we discriminate our brothers and sister from Northeast .They also said that everyone should about her struggle and the government should listen to her. These students also joined the “SAVE SHARMILA SOLIDARITY CAMPAIGN”, which they coordinated in Bihar. At the last, Irom’s struggle has ignited a passion in our soul, we salute the lady and we are in support for her till the battle against AFSPA is won.

This article has been written by Zaheeb Ajmal on behalf of the students. He is the patna co-ordinator of Save Sharmila Solidarity Campaign. He is also a member of Samar and of the students’ group for Irom, Le Mashale. He can be mailed at zaheebajmal@gmail.com

Also published at http://www.countercurrents.org/ajmal011112.htm

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Seventh Article in Article Series: Unmatched Saga of Relentless Struggle - Irom Sharmila Chanu

As a recent move of Save Sharmila Solidarity Campaign (SSSC), a nationwide protest against the neglect and suppression of Irom Sharmila, is observing 12 Article series to reflect 12 years of suppression of Irom Sharmila's fast.

In this series one article per day will be published on its website and will be dedicated to one year fast of Irom.

This will conclude on 5th November, the day when Irom Sharmila will be unfortunately completing her 12 years of stuggle. 

Here's the seventh article:

Unmatched Saga of Relentless Struggle - Irom Sharmila Chanu

By Mandavi Yadav

She is called the “Iron Lady of Manipur”. A civil rights activist and a poet from Manipur, India, she's the one and only Irom Sharmila Chanu, who have been on a fast for over twelve years now. Her only plea to the Indian government is to take away the Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act, 1958 which empowers the military to shoot down just anyone on mere suspicion.

She has been consistently and incessantly continuing the fast but in vein. But, what has motivated and continues to motivate her to consider this harsh tone? A thought of the Malom Massacre...

On that fatal Thursday, November 2, 2000, ten ordinary people were  shot and wiped out through the eighth Assam Rifles while they were waiting for the bus at a bus-stand in Malom, an urban area within the Imphal town of Manipur. The following day, the local dailies carried the atrocious and cruel pictures from their dead physiques, together with a 62-years old lady, Leisangbam Ibetombi, and 18-years old Sinam Chandramani, a 1988 National Child Bravery Award champion. In the news, all of them including the 62 year old lady and the Bravery Award winner were declared to be “militants”. This incident is referred to as the “Malom Massacre”.

Enraged by these increased atrocities from the military, 28-years-old Sharmila, who would observe fast every Thursday since childhood, decided to dedicate the fast to draw attention of the Government towards these atrocities. But little did she know that, her fast would continue for 12 years. She is neither taking water nor food. On November 4, 2000 she visited the spot where the incident had occured and stated her utmost step - to fast-unto-dying till AFSPA is taken away.

Sharmila stated, "I had been traumatised by the sight. There is no way to stop the further intrusion by the military... It (fast) is the best way, it is a spiritual fight... My fast is with respect to the folks of Manipur. This isn't an individual fight, it's symbolic. It's an indication of truth, peace and love."

Around the third day of her fast, she was arrested and charged with 'attempt to commit suicide', under section 309 of the Indian Penal Code. The Government decided to keep her on a nasal feeding of a semi liquid substance, just to keep her alive while keeping her under house-arrest. Every year, she is re-arrested.

Born on March 14, 1972, since childhood Sharmila was quite incomparable from other women in her own locality. She was modest, a basic girl having a couple of selected buddies. She didn't like dressing,  she neither used any cosmetics nor any jewellery. She was habitual of reading Bhagwad Gita and practised yoga and began learning naturopathy and stenography.

A lady like Sharmila is unequalled; she's actively fighting for her region, for her people without getting her very own individual interests. Her fast is possibly, the longest hunger-strike ever. She’s not been eating or drinking, even a droplet of water since November, 2000. She's been kept alive through the painful procedure of nasal feeding. She's now living in an exceedingly pitiable condition. She doesn’t comb her hair, does not check herself in the mirror and cleans her teeth with a dry cotton. She is internally week, her menstrual cycles have stopped. Whenever she will get a chance, she tries to do away with the nasal tube.

According to a report of BBC on her health stated, "Doctors  are saying that her fasting has got an immediate effect on normal functions of her body - her bones have grown to be brittle and some medical disorder are worsening her body too."

She's a lady, a beacon of hope and peace, a genuine fighter who has fought against this fight, for so long and all alone, with no media hype. While Baba Ramdev and Anna Hazare fasted for any couple of days and the whole nation was with them(a huge credit goes to the media), Sharmila's fight is a lonely one. Here it is! Sharmila, you undoubtedly are a legend and has proven the fighting spirit of humankind.

Mandavi Yadav is from Chandigarh. She is an entreprenuer and currently running an event company. She is passionate about working for a change and writes articles as a tool for activism. She can be reached at mandavi.707@gmail.com

Also published at http://www.countercurrents.org/mandavi311012.htm

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Sixth Article of the Article-series: In the World's largest democracy, a democratic voice silenced for 12 years

As a recent move of Save Sharmila Solidarity Campaign (SSSC), a nationwide protest against the neglect and suppression of Irom Sharmila, is observing 12 Article series to reflect 12 years of suppression of Irom Sharmila's fast.

In this series one article per day will be published on its website and will be dedicated to one year fast of Irom. This will conclude on 5th November, the day when Irom Sharmila will be unfortunately completing her 12 years of struggle. 

Here's the sixth article: 

In the World's Largest Democracy, a democratic voice silenced for 12 years 

By Pallavi Ghosh

Twelve years of persistent resistance by a lady in Manipur. So what this is all about? What is Irom Sharmila against? I can only try, the rest is up to the readers. What she is really opposing is the military regime existing in Manipur. Not that long ago, the world witnessed the victory of Aung-sung-su-kyi, the Burmese political leader against similar oppressive military regime. Even in the Arab region there have been persistent protests and active movements against such oppressive structures and systems. The war is on and the result is undecided yet.

But one might argue that the case is different. India is after all a democracy and the most successful in the Indian subcontinent.  Yes, I cannot possibly deny the first part, but the latter is rather contentious, especially in a place where riots break out of ethnic differences even today and the  farmers’ suicide rate is still formidable.

Speaking about the similarity between all such regimes all over the world, all of them share a similar resistant or ignorant attitude towards any kind of critical mass movement.

Thankfully in a democracy one is at least allowed to speak. So I dare to ask as to why Irom’s 12-year-long struggle has been sidelined as though she was a child crying for her lost toy! Is it because she is a woman? Or is it because she is a common citizen and not a bureaucrat?
An entire nation was respectful and in awe of a seventy-five year-old man when he began his sole war against corruption. His week-long fast was so intimidating that it changed the course of parliamentary discussions. I am not against any activist in particular. Mr Hazare’s movement against corruption is indeed commendable. What I am against is the pretence that one pill can cure all diseases, which is rather characteristic of token democracy. Every battle has a different stake and every battle is as important as any other. Therefore, Irom’s struggle is neither a penny more nor a penny less valuable than the protests against corruption today. Moreover, isn’t unaccountability the premise of corruption and is not the misuse of power one of the heads of the ten-headed evil, namely corruption?

When students marched supporting her cause, they were lathi-charged. When political leaders and social activists pressed her cause, they were conveniently ignored.

The basic characteristic of a democracy is transparency and accountability. This is what the AFSPA violates. Uncontrolled and unchecked power is always susceptible to misuse and abuse as the adage confirms-power corrupts an absolute power corrupts absolutely.

Humanity has always been the first casualty whenever power has been misused. Therefore what Irom Sharmila has been fighting for more than a decade now is not only for democracy in its true spirit, but also for humanity. 
 
Pallavi Ghosh is a  student at IIMC Orissa. She is a volunteer of Save Sharmila Solidarity Campaign.

Also published at http://www.countercurrents.org/ghosh301012.htm

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Fifth Article of the article series: The Oblivious Truth of Irom Sharmila and Her Hunger Strike of 12 years

As a recent move of Save Sharmila Solidarity Campaign (SSSC), a nationwide protest against the neglect and suppression of Irom Sharmila, is observing 12 Article series to reflect 12 years of suppression of Irom Sharmila's fast.

In this series one article per day will be published on its website and will be dedicated to one year fast of Irom. This will conclude on 5th November, the day when Irom Sharmila will be unfortunately completing her 12 years of struggle. 

Here's the fifth article:

The Oblivious Truth of Irom Sharmila and Her Hunger Strike of 12 years

By Abhijit Bhomia

“If Sharmila dies, Parliament is directly responsible,” she thundered at a gathering of journalists. “If she dies, courts and judiciary are responsible, the military is responsible… If she dies, the executive, the PM and President are responsible for doing nothing… If she dies, each one of you journalists is responsible because you did not do your duty…” these are the statements made by the Iranian nobel peace prize winner Shirin Ebadi on a trip to India in 2006 in support of Irom Sharmila Chanu.

Irom Sharmila, a poet, a social activist and a native of the ‘neglected’ state of Manipur and she is on hunger strike for 12 years now. Yes, twelve years, that is nothing in front of Anna Hazare’s fast of four days and still majority of Indians do not know about her and the cause she is fighting for. Irony, it is, that one person is getting so much media coverage and another person who is fighting for a similar cause is neglected by the government and most importantly by the media. She is fighting for the people of North East India and wants the repeal of AFSPA(Armed Forces Special Powers Act). The growing insurgency in Kashmir and North East India resulted in the inception of AFSPA. Citizens of these regions thought that now they would be safe from the militants but they did not know that atrocities by the men in uniform would follow soon. More than 20,000 people have been killed so far in Manipur alone, estimate the numbers of the whole North East.

Gandhi inspires her, and in this country of Gandhi, she is being jailed as she expresses her solidarity towards the Draconian law of AFSPA. She is not doing this for fame, but for the people of North East who are helpless and weak in front of the ruthless army. She has been fasting because this is the only weapon left with her and then she is being charged under ATTEMPT TO SUICIDE and is being jailed for a year and then police arrest her again after 2-3 days. Isn’t this what Anna Hazare is doing, and the police is not arresting him under the same charge. Double Standards.

The big Indian media houses boast about their ethics, where are those ethics when it comes to the coverage of Irom’s struggle? Do these media houses only want sky high TRPs and not highlight the news and development regarding to Irom’s hunger strike? Strong questions are left unanswered about ETHICAL media.

Leaving aside the double standards of the police and the media, let me talk about the government now. Prime Minister Manmohan Singh formed a committee in 2004 to look into the matter of AFSPA, the committee was headed by Justice Jeevan Reddy. The report by the committee has been submitted to the government but it has not made it public yet but the report is there with The Hindu and it clearly recommends the repeal of AFSPA as "the Act, for whatever reason, has become a symbol of oppression, an object of hate and an instrument of discrimination and highhandedness".

The report was submitted to the government years back but nothing has been done till now. If it has been proved that the law, instead of solving problems, has created problems then why hasn’t it been repealed? Why are they still silent? Why are the suppressing her and till when will they do? 12 years of ignoring the plea for humanity, isint that enough?

Abhijit Bhomia is a student at BITS , Pilani and Volunteer of Save Sharmila Solidarity Campaign. He can be reached at abhijit493@gmail.com 

Also published at http://www.countercurrents.org/bhomia291012.htm

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Fourth Article of the Article-series : Diary entry of Irom Sharmila on the eve of 5th November

As a recent move of Save Sharmila Solidarity Campaign (SSSC), a nationwide protest against the neglect and suppression of Irom Sharmila, is observing 12 Article series to reflect 12 years of suppression of Irom Sharmila's fast.

In this series one article per day will be published on its website and will be dedicated to one year fast of Irom. This will conclude on 5th November, the day when Irom Sharmila will be unfortunately completing her 12 years of struggle. 

Here's the fourth article: 

Diary entry of Irom Sharmila on the eve of 5th November

By Shekhar Jain

If I were Irom Sharmila, my diary entry on the eve of 5th November would have been:

“Tomorrow it will be 12 years. I still remember my last dinner which I ate with my mother. Now, I don’t even remember how food tastes and to run for water when you are really thirsty. Seems like, I have gone past the need of these two necessary evils. But...But did I ever imagine doing this…??? Did I ever imagine my fight will be this long??? God always helped me and I always thank him for all the strength he gave me to survive. Although this nostril tube irritates me sometimes but having it for 12 years now, it has become like another organ of my body.

When I remember the day when Assam rifles had killed those innocent people, I still shudder. The face of  that 18 years kid, who won the child bravery award and could have been a future for India and that 62 old year mother…They still gives me more strength to keep my fight alive.

I always read about Mahatma Gandhi and his non violence stories. I tried to follow the same path but I never imagined that my call for non-violence and peace will be ignored by the same Government whose offices are decorated with framed photo of Mahatma Gandhi. Seems like they forgotten his values of peace and non-violence. 

They have not only ignored my voice but have also implicated me in a false case. Every year, I have to appear in the court for a false case. They have levied a charge which is not only false but also disrespects my step. I have been charged of committing “suicide”. Even the British govt knew that Mahatama Ghandhi was on a protest and was not committing suicide. I do not wish to die. I want the Government to save me and my people. For this, I am ready to sacrifice my life. It is not suicide, it is a form of protest. And I had learnt this way of protest from my nation and keeping my faith alive in my nation, I will continue this. I am fighting for humanity and I will keep on doing this. 

I never felt I was alone but sometimes. Few incidences that have come to my knowledge have been very disturbing but have given me the strength to go on. The killing of Manorama was one of them. I still feel horrified the way, i heard, she was assassinated. God knows what all happened with her before she was killed. I heard that after the incident, there was a naked parade.  I must salute all the women who did that. It takes a lot of courage in doing something like this.

I tried to take my voice directly to the centre and went to Delhi in 2006 but I was not allowed to stay there and was forcefully sent back to Manipur. I have been confined to a room in Jawaharlal Nehru Hospital for 12 years. Another thing that I do not understand is that even as a prisoner, I have not been given my rights. Unlike other prisoners, I have not been allowed visitors. Why do people have to take permission from four authorities to meet me?  I am not a terrorist. I am a reputed citizen of India who has faith in the Indian constitution. 

Recently someone told me that I am a record holder for longest fast. Ripley’s believe it or not had published my name.  Though I never wanted to set such a record but my regards to them for their recognition!

I sometimes wonder…if not about my life and my people’s life, isn’t the Government bothered about the image of our country? What will people think about the World’s largest democracy? What about the image of our diverse nation, “unity in diversity” phrase? Isn’t the Government bothered? I know that many people all across the nation support me. They write to me and tell me how whenever someone hears of my plight, they are sympathetic towards me. They are shocked. If not on the grounds on humanity and justice, the Government should think about how it is deteriorating the sense of patriotism.

I demand the repeal of AFSPA. It is something which will bring peace in the mind and heart of north- eastern people. I want myself and people in my region to have a normal and peaceful life. Is it wrong? Is it such an extravagant demand? I am only demanding peace and justice. Till when will this struggle go on…Till when will I be hungry, for peace, for justice and for non-violence? 

I just hope and pray may this new year bring a answer to few of my question.

Shekhar Jain is a recent post-graduate in electronics from Delhi University. He is a volunteer of Save Sharmila Solidarity Campaign. He can be reached at jainshekhar36@gmail.com 

Also published at http://www.countercurrents.org/jain281012.htm

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First Article in the article-series on Irom: Questioning the world's largest democracy, a fair judiciary and star-obsessed media

As a recent move of Save Sharmila Solidarity Campaign (SSSC), a nationwide protest against the neglect and suppression of Irom Sharmila, is observing 12 Article series to reflect 12 years of suppression of Irom Sharmila's fast.

In this series one article per day will be published on its website and will be dedicated to one year fast of Irom.

This will conclude on 5th November, the day when Irom Sharmila will be unfortunately completing her 12 years of stuggle. 

Here's the first article: 

Questioning the world's largest democracy, a fair judiciary and star-obsessed media

By Swathi Gadepalli

Sharmila who? I wondered when I had read her name a few months back on a networking site. Must be a weight lifter or some sportsperson, I thought. Then I read the caption below, the words "fast" caught my attention. Oh! It must be someone from Hazare's camp fasting for that anti-corruption bill. Just as that thought came into my mind I decided to click on the link to know more, (because through the media I had followed the movement with a patriotic fervor and had felt like I was really a part of the campaign.) Then her picture emerged in which there was sort of pipe to her nose, her condition must be serious to warrant such food pipes and stuff I thought, How many days had she been on the hunger strike I wondered next, I read the article. It had shocked the hell out of me. Eleven years (twelve now) of fasting?? Why? How? When? I didn’t understand anything else. Just that, eleven years a lady had fasted...Eleven years...a lady had felt so close to a cause that she decided to dedicate her time, energy and health to fight for it. Then I reread the article to know what was the cause for which a person can go to such length. I read something about special powers given to the army to protect civilians from “militants” was being misused and abused by the army. Fake encounters and killing of innocents was mentioned. What special powers are they talking about? Looking up for these "powers “on wikipedia left me feeling cheated. Cheated by my own nation, yes the law and order situation must have been horrible in these places to put the armed forces there-accepted, yes they need to fight militancy and keep terrorism at bay-accepted but nothing gives the right for a culprit, a rapist roaming freely whether hes a civilian or an armyman. 

It saddened me to think that some people in the army are doing all this when they should be the one who are supposed to protect us, but it's not completely their fault; it's the fault of the Govt. to have given them such arbitrary power, like a parent allowing a small kid to play with fire...it will eventually burn the kid’s hands or it may let the kid set fire to the house.
But what is also shocking to me is the fact that at a time when the media of the nation has become a force to reckon with, it is really a sorry thing to see how the media chooses to highlight some issues while ignoring the others. It is the same media who made a five day fast into a nationwide movement while ignoring a 12 year fast in A NORTH EASTERN STATE. The good old trips and the glamour quotient of a news item seem to dictate what is to shown in the name of "news". SHAME that the media decides what is fit for us to know and what is not. And sad that most people like me have no idea who she is. Sharmila who indeed!!

Swathi Gadepalli is a student from Hyderabad. She can be mailed at swathi.gadepalli@gmail.com

Also published at http://www.countercurrents.org/gadepalli251012.htm

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Srinagar to Imphal Save Sharmila Yatra reaches Varanasi on 22nd October 2011

Press Release

Srinagar to Imphal Save Sharmila Yatra

reaches Varanasi on 22nd October 2011

Save Sharmila Solidarity Campaign(SSSC) has organized a Jan Caravan from Jammu to Imphal to support Irom Sharmila, a Manipuri poet and activist who has been on a fast for 11 years for repeal of AFSPA. The Caravan will cover 10 states. The Caravan has people from different parts of the country. Irom Sharmila’s brother Singhajit is also part of the Caravan.

The Caravan of around 25 people reached Varanasi on 22nd October 2011. The Caravan stayed at Patel Dharamshala.

A seminar on Irom Sharmila and “Security Laws in India and position of human rights activists’ was held at conference hall of the Patel Dharamshala from 10 to 12 PM. The seminar was organized by the Sajha Sanskriti Manch which is a network of 54 local ngos. The speakers included Niti Bhai of Lok Chetna Samiti, Shabbir Bhai, Arvind Skhrwal, and Mahendra Bhai.

Niti Bhai remarked, “In the land of Gandhi, the voice of a true Gandhian should not be neglected”. Arvind Skhrwal added, “Save Sharmila, Save Democracy”. Mahendra Bhai argued that, “If the Government can consider talks with naxals, then why can’t with Irom Sharmila”. The seminar received a good response. 

After lunch, there was a march from Patel Bhawan to Kashi Vidyapeeth. The march saw about 200 people. This was followed by another seminar where one of the Kashmir interlocutor, Mr. Ansari was also present.

The Caravan will now move towards Patna. It has covered Jammu, Srinagar, Ludhiana, Panipat, Delhi, Aligarh, Kanpur and Lucknow. From Patna, it will then go to Ranchi, Kolkata, Guwahati and then finally to Imphal on 27^th October 2011. 

Date: 21 Octobeter KARWAN met People of Kanpur & Lucknow

PRESS RELEASE

 

Date: 21 Octobeter KARWAN met People of Kanpur & Lucknow

 

Save Sharmila Solidarity Campaign(SSSC) has organized a Jan Caravan from Jammu to Imphal to support Irom Sharmila, a Manipuri poet and activist who has been on a fast for 11 years for repeal of AFSPA.

The Caravan of around 25 people reached Kanpur on 21st October 2011. Local activities was organized by Mahesh Bhai of Asha Parivar. The caravan was welcomed by hundreds of civil rights activists, the Student Islamic Organization and the general public. The Caravan then marched till the Bharat Mata Chowk.

A public meeting was held at the Harihar Shastri Bhawan. The speakers included noted hindi writer andPadmashree recipient Giriraj Kishore told that democracy needs such brave steps from the side of public. He told that I can understand that 4500 km. journey is not so easy and in spite of that courage of the karwan people show that people are there in society who want to work without any desire of advantage. He told that he is very fortunate to welcome such a group of people.

Mahesh Bhai of Asha Parivar told that we all in asha parivar welcome all such initiatives that focus on values. Values of democracy, peace and justice are most required to live the life without fear. Faisal Khan informed that karwan has covered 7 cities till now and going ahead without fear. we all believe that ignorance is not a soluation and thus government should initiate a positive dialogue of peace with Irom Sharmila as soon as possible. Arvind Skhrwal added that in a democracy, everyone has the right to raise their voice and get heard. We will fight for our demand that is start of talk with Irom.

The Kanpur event saw an amazing response and renewed the hopes.

Karwan then moved towards Lucknow, where it was welcomed at Central Academy by hundreds of students and parents of a school. A press meet cum public meeting was being organized at auditorium of Central Academy, Ashiana, Lucknow.

Noted activist and Megsesay awardee Dr. Sandeep Pandey was also present there and told that students should get involved in social issues through all available means . parents should also focus on all round development of their wards and here it becomes very important to teach them about happenings in society. Irom Sharmila’s struggle has become a symbol of peaceful protest. She has ecvery right to be heard and government must listen and talk with her as soon as possible.

Advocate Shoaib of lucknow, who is also famous for their fight for social causes, told that the law (AFSPA) violates the basic human rights.

Retired Colonel Kulbhushan Avadh told that even many army personals want to repeal the law because general people start hate with army persons and live in fear. People to people relation should based on co existence without fear. We all appeal with government to start the talk with Irom Ji. Irom’s fight not for herself but for the people, for the land, for the democracy.

Bobby Ramakant told that people were not aware about Irom, but only after start of this campaign, gradually awareness is spreading.  Now, anyone who know about Irom, supports her. Her sacrifice is so big and peaceful that no one can question on that. We all should apread this awareness among others too to support her.

Other karwan people told that this journey filled their hearts with joy and tears. They told that they met with people of various states, with varying culture but they found that everywhere, love is common. They all loved us, supported us and we all are very thankful for them. We hope that this campaign must bring the change in government’s attitude.

It is noted that Save Sharmila Solidarity Campaign launched a nationwide protest to support Irom Sharmila and this campaign has its specific demands.  After start of its first Nationwide Signature Campaign, now campaign started its journey from Srinagar to Imphal that is a 4500 km journey and will travel through 10 states for spreading awareness among people and then to get their support for demands of the campaign.

 Demands of Save Sharmila Solidarity Campaign are : To start positive steps of talk with Irom and to listen her demand seriously, to send all party delegation to Manipur to meet Irom and people of Manipur and to send members of NWC/NHRC to investigate cases of atrocities.

Srinagar to Imphal Jan Karawan reached Aligarh 20 OCTOBER

Arrival at Aligarh on 20 October 2011 10:00 AM

PRESS RELEASE

Date: 20 OCT 2011

Aligarh

Srinagar to Imphal Jan Karawan reached Aligarh and welcomed by hundreds of students and activists today as part of their 4500 Km journey to spread awareness about Irom Sharmila and her hunger strike. The Karwan is organized by Save Sharmila Solidarity Campaign which is a joint initiative of various social organizations and movements who are extending their solidarity towards the cause. Irom Sharmila, a Manipuri poet and activist has been fasting for more than 10 years to repeal AFSPA ( Armed Forces Special Powers Act, 1958) which gives army and paramilitary forces unquestioned power to kill or detain anybody on the basis of suspicion.

Karwan of 25 activists (who are from various states of India) marched from Railway Station to Media Centre through roads of Aligarh. A public meeting was organized at the Media center where Mr. Faisal Khan, Member of Save sharmila solidarity campaign revealed the purpose of this karawan. ‘ Irom sharmila is a denied Gandhian in the land of Gandhi. But adhering to Gandhian principle, we are spreading awareness about her in a peaceful way by reaching to hundreds in the interior of this country.’

Jasim Bhai of Aligarh, who was local organizer of the campaign in Aligarh told that Irom is struggling not only for Manipur but, it is her fight for democracy and human values. Professor Raza Ullah Khan of AMU also spoke at the meet and stressed on how the resent in general public is growing as the awareness spreads and in no time, this movement will become ‘people’s movement’ rather than a movement of ‘north- east state movement.’ Balwant Yadav told that it is the time when democratic values are in demand for a fair and free world, and at this time, this ignorance from government side is shameful for the country because India is famous for its values. Satya Prakash Bharat, who is a well known activists and famous for his cycle journey with Baba Amte also travelling in karwan to express his support for the campaign. He told that campaign is spreading awareness and we are happy to see that people who even don’t know about Irom till know, are happy to express their support when they understand the whole issue through our speeches, public meetings and pamphlets distribution programs.

Members of karwan are very enthusiastic. Members include senior gandhians such as Suresh Bhai (76 years) and even youths like Shabbir of 20 years. Mr. Arvind Sakirwal, activist of Gwalior from OJUS also a part of 25 members travelling till Imphal.

Devika Mittal (Member of National Coordination Committee, Save Sharmila Solidarity Campaign) told that the group begun its journey from Srinagar and has till now covered Ludhiana, Panipat, Karnal and Delhi. In Delhi, the group was attacked by ABVP right wing extremists during their peaceful march in Delhi University but in spit of it members are moving with all courage to join the hearts of people in a peaceful way.

Total 10 states will be covered by this karwan and around 4500 km distance will be covered. The karawan will reach Imphal on 27^th October and meet Irom Sharmila.

departure from ALIGARH 02:00 PM 20 October

Srinagar to Imphal Jan Karawan reached Delhi 19 OCTOBER 2011

Departure from Panipat at 7:00 AM 19 October

Arrival at New Delhi on 19 October 2011 10:00 AM

PRESS RELEASE

Date: 19 OCT 2011

Delhi

Srinagar to Imphal Jan Karawan reached Delhi yesterday as part of their 4500 Km journey to spread awareness about Irom Sharmila and her hunger strike. The Karwan is organized by Save Sharmila Solidarity Campaign which is a joint initiative of various social organizations and movements who are extending their solidarity towards the cause.

The group led by social activists Faisal Khan reached Delhi University, Art faculty where they were welcomed by an another similar organization ‘Save Democracy, Repeal AFSPA’, and a public meeting was organized by Save Democracy Repeal AFSPA which was attended by around 100 youngters from the University. Seram Rojesh, member of Repeal AFSPA spoke about how important it is to have groups like these to come together and fight for peace and justice. More than this being a fight for Irom Sharmila or repealing AFSPA, it is a fight to save the democracy of this country.

“This is for the first time when such a journey is being organized by civilians to protect democratic values and Gandhian values. Never has it happened that to fight for a woman far in north east, so many people from different parts of states have come together. Irom has become a symbol of peace and humanity which is a language spoken by everybody regardless of what religion and language one belongs to.” Said Faisal Khan.  

Mr. Khan told that this Jan Karwan was being organised to spread awareness about Irom Sharmila and to generate public support for her. Mr. Khan told that our main objective is to make public opinion about sufferings of people who are affected by AFSPA.

Joining the Karawan is also Mr. Irom Singhjeet ji, brother of Irom Sharmila who was been equally fighting for her since she took up the fast. He said that this time he wishes that through the voices of the common man, Sharmila’s voice will be heard and hopefully justice will be done to her.

While Sharmila supporters were peacefully conducting their meeting and marching, a group of right wing extremists from ABVP marched in violently and disrupted the protest.  They claimed that such remarks were ‘anti-indian’ and that the SSC was sponsored by ISI, a Pakistan based militant group.

"We were taking out a caravan when some people came shouting slogans. They asked us to stop, and when we refused, they manhandled us and splashed black ink on our clothes,” said a karawan member.

As the situation worsened, Police called for vans to make arrest but instead of arresting the attackers, peaceful protesters and DU students were detained. All the detained students, six of them girls, were released at 6.30 pm.

After the issue was some how settled at DU, a group of yatris went to IIT Delhi to speak to the students about the issue. ‘Most of them are young students who will become the future of this country. They will work in big companies and earn a lot of money, but they also need to know the ground realities of this country.’ Said Suresh, a Gandhian and Karawan member.  He added that this struggle is not for a specific region or specific act, instead it is a struggle to protect the values.

The group then further went to JNU where they addressed the issue amongst students. A panel discussion was organized to discuss about the draconian law AFSPA. Also the yatris got a chance to share their experience of the travel. ‘people from panipat, Haryana, Gujarat are coming forward for this cause. It is not the people or the state that matters, it is the empathy and pain human feels for each other. We are here just to show our solidarity towards all who are victims and who are facing the scenario of human rights violation.’ mentioned Balwant Yadav are also travelling through all routes of yatra.

Total 10 states will be covered by this karwan and around 4500 km distance will be covered. The karawan will reach Imphal on 27^th October and meet Irom Sharmila.

Departure from New Delhi at 7:00 AM 20 October

18 OCTOBER: SRINAGAR to IMPHAL SAVE SHARMILA JAN KARWAN: PANIPAT

Arrival at Panipat 06:00 PM 18 October

PRESS RELEASE

Date: 18 OCT 2011

PANIPAT (HARYANA)

Srinagar to Imphal Save Sharmila Jan Karwan that is started from Srinagar on 16^th October reached Panipat (Haryana) at 6:00 PM after its Talawadi (Haryana) Program.

A press meet and public meeting was organized. Sh. Ram Mohan Roy (Gandhi Global Family), Sh. Ramkumar ji (Haali Panipat Trust) , Vinod Panchal (Zila Patrakar Sangh) and members of karwan addressed the public. Campaign’s karwan received huge response and local activists told that they will continue signature campaign and other related activities in support of the campaign.

Departure from Panipat at 7:00 AM 19 October

18 OCTOBER: SRINAGAR to IMPHAL SAVE SHARMILA JAN KARWAN: TALAWADI

Arrival at Talawadi 01:30 PM 18 October

PRESS RELEASE

Date: 18 OCT 2011

TALAWADI (HARYANA)

Srinagar to Imphal Save Sharmila Jan Karwan that is started from Srinagar on 16^th October reached Talawadi (Haryana) at 1:30 PM after its Ludhiana Program.

A public meeting was organized at Guru Teg Bahadur College. Sh. Mahavir Tyagi of Haryana Sarvodaya Sangh welcomed the karwan. Kawan members distributed pampahlets and talked with public and media here. Speakers told about the whole issue, AFSPA and reasons to support Irom Sharmila.

Departure from Talawadi (Haryana) 04:00 PM 18 October

17 OCTOBER: SRINAGAR to IMPHAL SAVE SHARMILA JAN KARWAN: LUDHIANA

PRESS RELEASE

Date: 17 OCT 2011

LUDHIANA

Srinagar to Imphal Save Sharmila Jan Karwan that is started from Srinagar on 16^th October reached Ludhiana at 6:30 PM after its Jammu Program.

In Ludhiana, the activists received a warm welcome by Prof. Jagmohan Singh (a family member of Shaheed Bhagat Singh). All karwan persons and local activists marched candle light on Ludhiana road from railway station to Bhagat Singh Chowk.

A public meeting was organized at this chowk. Speakers told about the whole issue, AFSPA and reasons to support Irom Sharmila.

Speakers were Megsesay awardee Dr. Sandeep Pandey, Faisal Khan, Shehnaz Malik, Gufran Khan from karwan and Prof Jagmohan Singh, Prof. Malera, Sheetal ji and others.

Departure from Ludhiana 07:00 AM 18 October