Source: The Sangai Express / Newmai News Network
Imphal, October 16:
Irom Sharmila Chanu, the "Iron Lady" who has been taking up fast-unto-death agitation since the year 2000 against the Armed Forces Special Power Act (AFSPA), has decided to publish her 6 poems for the general public today.
This development came when two civil organisations based in Manipur approached her at the JN Hospital for going public with her poems as part of their 4th observation of
' Khunai Kanba Numeet' to be held on November 5.The two organisations (KLAM and NH-53 Kangleichal Kangleilup) also took her comments on the firm stand to fast-unto-death till AFSPA is completely repealed from the state.
According to the organisations, the idea to bring out the poems public is to highlight the school of thought of Sharmila.
Sharmila while agreeing on the matter has also asserted not to commercialise her poems and handed over the 6 poems to the to the organisations after reading some of them.
Some her poems included ' Taibang Meepalangee Wangmada', Mapok, Toyal Laba, Amuk Yening Manlakpashida, Nungsi Rabi inao Priya and Lelasi Punsi Se Aegee Wakat Oina'.
When asked about her firm stand on the removal of AFSPA from the state, Sharmila opined that to resolve the struggle it need unanimous effort, adding some people viewed her as supporter of terrorism by many powerful nations.
While disclosing her true struggle and getting the Gwangju Award, she also said that she cannot be compared with that of politicians or the government machineries.
Sharmila turn down the offer of a Trust under her name instead want it to be as Human Rights Trust, saying it is democratic state and people have to decide.