Press report
Office of the Manipur students’ association Delhi (MSAD)
Dated: 4/3/2013
New Delhi
Ref.no: 20130304
Manipur Students’ Association, Delhi (MSAD) organized a solidarity gathering in association with Save Democracy Repeal AFSPA (SDRAG) supported by many civil society organizations and the students group at Patiala House from 10am to 1pm. Many organizations and supporters landed Patiala court to meet IROM CHANU SHARMILA and to render full support the struggle against AFSPA and stop Indian state terrorism. Unfortunately when the supporters tried to enter the court, a large number of pre -planned police personnel blocked the way saying that no Manipuri would be allowed to enter the court premises. Even Professor Nandini Sunder who came for the hearing was pushed out forcefully as she was with the supporters. Then there was a big tussle between our team and the security personnel until the court session ended.
The supporters had blocked the gate no. 2 since supporters were not allowed to enter inside the court no. 4 where the court hearing was taking place. Delhi police used forced to disperse the supporters but failed to disperse the supporters from the gate.
During the protest, people shouted and cried slogans like “ long live, Sharmila‘s struggle”, “ we support Irom Sharmila” ,” Irom Sharmila is not alone, “repeal AFSPA”, “AFSPA , down down “,”Indian government ,down down “ Indian state terrorism down down”, “Indian government hai hai” Barat Sarkar Murdabad”.Two attorneys who were in the hearing of Irom chanu Sharmila, came out and gave the report in front of the supporters and media. According to them, Sharmila was charged under IPC 309 i.e attempt to suicide and the court asked her whether she felt guilty. Irom sharmila replied, “ I don’t feel guilty. I am not attempting suicide. I want to live as other human being. Senior lawyer, the chief of the Human Rights Law Network who is representing on behalf of Irom Sharmila says, “ the case should not be treated as under criminal case but it should be treated under political trial”. Patiala court framed the charge sheet against Irom Sharmila under 309- attempt to suicide and the next hearing was fixed on 22nd may 2013.
After the protest at Patiala House, all the supporters moved to the Bir Tikendrajit House , Chanakyapuri. All the supporters were very exited to meet and listen to Irom Sarmila. Eche imparted a precious message to the supporters and said “ timely solidarity is very important”.
We strongly condemn government of India’s attitude on the issue. We condemn the court proceeding that she has been charged under 309. It is nothing just torturing her through judicial process. We appeal to stop this torture. We will be with the cause – to repeal AFSPA and extending support to Eche Irom Sharmila.
Photos of the Solidarity Campaign:
Issued by
Samananda Elangbam
President- In charge
Manipur Student’s Association Delhi,
