Irom Sharmila’s fast against AFSPA will continue after her release, says her brother

Guwahati: Manipur activist Irom Sharmila’s brother has said that she will continue her 14-year-long fast against the Armed Forces Special Powers Act. This comes a day after she was acquitted of attempted suicide.
“Yesterday, just after hearing the news of Sharmila’s release from the court, we were very happy because at this juncture we got moral victory. Even after her release, she will continue to fast,” her brother Irom Singhajit said.
“Until and unless her demand is not fulfilled, she will continue her fasting. Our state and central government must listen to the voice of our people. In the near future, there may be changes because at the Centre also some political change is there. That’s why our goal may be met in the near future,” Singhajit added.A Manipur Court had on Tuesday ordered Sharmila’s release citing lack of evidence on attempted suicide charges. The court has said that she should be released immediately. Though according to sources, it will take at least two days to complete the formalities of her release.
The court observed that an intent to commit suicide cannot be established in the case against her and she cannot be kept under arrest. The Manipur government is free to challenge the order in a higher court.
Sharmila has been on an indefinite fast since November 4, 2000, demanding repulsion of the Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act 1958 (AFSPA). She was charged with attempting to commit suicide. Under this charge, she can be kept in custody for one year at a stretch.