Sharmila's case to be highlighted to Patil

The case of Irom Chanu Sharmila, who has been fasting for more than 10 years, demanding repeal of Armed Forces Special Powers Act, 1958, would be raised among other issues concerning women in Manipur to the President of India Pratibha Devisingh Patil during her two-day visit to the State, Chairperson of Manipur State Social Welfare Advisory Board RK Nayansana has assured.

Talking to The Sangai Express in her office, Nayansana informed that the State Social Welfare Advisory Board is planning to raise various issues related to development of women in Manipur including the issue of Sharmila who has been fasting for more than 10 years now demanding repeal of AFSPA, 1958.

Nayansana observed that the struggle of Irom Chanu Sharmila is for the entire Manipur and as a woman, she is very proud of the fact that such an unprecedented struggle has been launched by a woman.

She pointed out that in a  armed conflict situation like Manipur, it is the women who suffered the most. This is despite the fact that Manipuri women have been contributing their mite in every sphere of the society.

‘‘So, when President Pratibha Devisingh Patel arrived here on a two-day visit to the State, we would ensure that the issue of Irom Chanu Sharmila is brought to her notice and exert pressure for repealing Armed Forces Special Powers Act, 1958’’, Nayansana said, adding that the timing of the visit of the President, which comes  just ahead of International Women’s Day, too, is most appropriate for taking up other important issues related to development of women in Manipur.