Irom Sharmila's release brings Manipur's political dissent into prominence
Imphal, 19 August2014
The Centre for Organisation Research and Education (CORE) of Manipur, while welcoming the landmark order releasing Ms Irom Chanu Sharmila passed by the District and Sessions Judge of Imphal East District, Manipur, Mr Aribam Guneshwor Sharma, is also concerned that her continued protest of fast for the repeal of AFSPA will also put her at a heightened risk to her personal safety and life.
It is astounding that after more than 12 years of being convicted to imprisonment under IPC section 309 (attempt to commit suicide), a judicial opinion has been expressed that there is no evidence that she has attempted to commit suicide!
If the judicial opinion has any weight in the long turn, the order has put the tenability of Section 309 in the Indian Penal Code under a cloud. The judicial implications apart, the CORE commends the courageous order passed by a District and Sessions Judge of Manipur.
The political dimension of Irom Chanu Sharmila’s unique lone protest stance has been thrust into prominence for the first time since she began her fast.
Mr Aribam’s judgement will go down in Manipur’s history, whatever the final outcome of his order, as one that contributed substantially to the recognition and resolution of the political conflict that has existed between New Delhi and Manipur for many decades, and the final erasure of AFSPA from the jurisprudence of India.
Laifungbam Debabrata Roy
President, CORE
Ibotombi Building FF Babupara
Imphal 795001 Manipur
TEL (Office): +91-385-2441319
Email: laifungbam(at)coremanipur(dot)org
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/COREMANIPUR
Website: www.coremanipur.org
* This PR was sent to e-pao.net by Laifungbam Debabrata Roy (CORE) who can be contacted at laifungbam(at)coremanipur(dot)org
This Press Release was posted on August 20 2014
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