Imphal, October 06: Even as the stir launched by Sharmila to demand the repeal of the Armed Forces Special Powers Act has found many backers with sit-in-protests and rallies being held at many places today, Chief Minister O Ibobi received a dose of the people's ire when he visited Sharmila at Jantar Mantar today at about 9.30 pm.

Sharmila was arrested by Delhi police today at about 11.45 pm as she needed medical care.

When The Sangai Express contacted the convenor of the Apunba Lup, Babloo Laishram today, he said that when the Chief Minister visited Sharmila at Jantar Mantar today, the people who were with Sharmila demanded the repeal of the said Act.

The Chief Minister however replied that he was helpless and could not give any assurance.

This incensed the people so much so that the Chief Minister had to beat a hasty retreat that he could not even put on his shoes which was taken off earlier.

On the other hand, while Sharmila was going ahead with her fast at New Delhi, a rumour started doing the round that she had passed away prompting the people to come out on the streets here.

All the main markets of Imphal shut down as the rumour started spreading and the office of The Sangai Express was flooded with calls from the people to confirm the story.

To battle dehydration, Sharmila is being given ice treatment, he said.

Earlier in the day a rally was taken out from Jantar Mantar to Parliament to demand the repeal of AFSPA.

Stating the agitation of Sharmila has found many backers, Babloo informed that the Naga Peoples' Movement for Human Rights has expressed its support to her.

Despite the meetings sought by the aides of Sharmila with the President, Prime Minister and Home Minister there has been no response so far, said Babloo who however added that the Apunba Lup will not seek any audience with the Central leaders.

According to a late evening report, police have arrived at Jantar Mantar and installed close circuit cameras to keep Sharmila under surveillance though it is still not clear whether she would be arrested or not.

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