Friday 8 November 2013

Sensitivities Killed Nationality Fragmented

by Prof. V P Srivastava



After the bus gang-rape of Delhi, questions are raised: when crime is being committed, why do the people look the other way? People’s sensitivity is questioned.  Massacre of eleven innocent people in Manipur, unquestioned by the government shook the conscience of a young lady, who goes on a self-sacrificing, non-violent fast against the law that justifies this brutality. What is expected of a person with a conscience? ....Probably , we need to learn to kill our conscience to be a law-abiding citizen! The Indian state is forcing with guns generations after generations in Manipur to learn to kill any sensitivity any humanity within.

Supreme Court responding to Hegde’s committee’s report on fake encounters in Manipur observed,‘ This is not the best way to integrate(north-east) people. It is the best way to alienate them.’ I wonder how many years it takes the BEST WAY to achieve its objective of ALIENATION completely. Has not the BEST WAY already achieve its objective in more than half century of persecution?

Irom Sharmila, the rarest of the rare species of human being that she belongs, possesses empathy for every human being and the Himalayan courage to take upon a life-time struggle to undo the wrong. In her poems, ‘to spread the fragrance of peace for future generations, she wishes her mortal remains to turn into ores of mines’---a living Gold Mine of Highest Human Values being herself! Full of humility, in another poem, she seeks support, ‘My hands be given to you, Greet me Please’. I cannot forgive myself for her personal suffering, and the state-caused miseries around, being a beneficiary of the system. We have looked upon mythological (not historical) Bheeshma among the tallest for taking the most difficult pledge (not to marry for peace in the royal family). And Lo! Here, there is a real human being in flesh and blood transcending basic human needs and senses of taste for the cause of Peace and Justice.

I can recall only one occasion in my last fifty years of adult life before, when I rushed to have a glimpse of a mortal being. It was to see Mother Teressa. On March 4, 2013, I had taken the side-gate to enter Patiala House Court in Delhi, to avoid police barriers. And I was there to hear her words ‘love for life’ and court’s words ‘respect you’ for the accused and its helplessness that,’....AFSPA is a political decision’. Not satisfied with only few minutes in the court corridor, I accompanied Delhi University students to Manipur House. After waiting for 2-3 hours for her feeding and the required rest, I was lucky to listen to her half an hour interaction with the youth at the outside of the building within the premises of Manipur House.

Many of Delhi University students were known to me, having met them on Nov. 6, 2012 Solidarity fast at Rajghat. I was particularly pained to find almost all students belonging to Manipur only. But I had myself come to know about her visit only through the morning newspaper that day. During the waiting hours, on the road-side meeting at Manipur House, the deep-rooted feeling of being discriminated and the anger against draconian AFSPA dominated the discussion. It was important to share with them the exploiting character of the state, and helplessness of the poor, even in non-border states from Kalingnagar in Orissa in the East to curfew conditions at Jaitapur in Maharashtra in the West; people’s struggle for their water-rights in Uttarakhand to fishermen’s struggle at Kundankulam in South; and the unlawful long detentions of the tribals in Central India irrespective of race, religion or region. (It was satisfying to read an appeal recently to the judiciary by eminent citizens led by Justice V.R.Krishna Iyer  to look into the unlawful detention of the people in Central India. It was unfortunately to be soon followed by the news of killing of political leaders in Chattisgarh.)

Describing conditions in Manipur, Sharmila writes in her letter to Harvard University seminar ,"One side (the state )is adamant to rout the struggle of independence with Weapon of Violence while the other side firmly believes to win independence with it but, in the never-ending fight between the two sides, land’s potency for development, wealth and time is unnecessarily wasted making the land poorer.......making populace depend on other’s help." Further she laments "There is no one (government or the law) to  listen to complaints of women whose husbands and children have met a premature end to their lives and whose honour have been ravaged. amidst their heartfelt cries, in the light thrown by the flames of funeral pyres, outsiders project manipur as a place akin to hell." The concerns of the common man, so vividly described is of no concern to the politician’s selfish agenda revealed by massive corruption all around. Nevertheless, the politicians are successful in pitching the common man against others in the name of caste, creed, race or religion unmindful of the fragmentation of the society caused. The state government of Manipur, of the people of Manipur is little bothered to do away the Disturbed Area Act to put pressure on the Centre to repeal AFSPA. Both the governments know how to rule with divisive politics and ‘easy purchase of their (people’s) voting rights’.

Shall we look at the greatness of the common people with greater respect! Meira Paibi and Naga Mothers were given the highest Social Impact Award by Times of India this year for their work on anti-alcoholism and peace. Not only awards, their work (similar works elsewhere too) need be replicated at all-India level if the people’s welfare is to be the objective. Shall we not hope and work for a shift in political power (and policies) in the hands of such people’s groups, to the legacy of which Sharmila belongs! Gandhiji in a speech says, "Indeed, the test of orderliness in a country is not the number of millionaires it owns, but the absence of starvation among its masses.”

There cannot be greater evidence of helplessness and suffocation of judiciary than the Supreme Court making observation on Manipur conditions saying,” We can’t tell how sorrowful we are. What is the use of our sitting here?” Then look Justice Varma’s Committee, while making suggestions to strengthen anti-rape laws used the opportunity to recommend not to allow the immunity of AFSPA for rape. The recommendations of Justice Jeewan Reddy for repealing AFSPA is not being honoured. Justice Hegde’s committee exposes government’s crime on the people in Demo(n)cratic way! This brings us to the clear conclusion that in a democratic society if the state imposes such emeregency laws (like AFSPA)in any part of the country, beyond a stipulated period( six months or one year) then it automatically qualifies for judicial monitoring of law and order on six-monthly basis for its continuance, not to make a mockery of democracy.

The captivity of Sharmila for more than twelve years on charges of ‘attempt to suicide’ is another mockery of law. Her’s is a penance of the highest kind for peace and justice. In twelve years, there are twelve hundred ways of committing ‘suicide’, if that was at all the objective. Only a hypocrite would accuse her guilty of the crime. When attempted or suspected starvation could be averted by a mandatory visit to a government doctor every day, why she is deprived of civil liberties to the extent of not even allowed to meet the family?? Politicians can be very small people, not worthy of recognising the Greatness of Sharmila, but not the Highest Judiciary?

Manipur House displays posters of Olympians proclaiming them, ‘Pride of Manipur’. That day, in the energetic  and enthusiastic discussion of those promising students with Sharmila, all I could add, ‘Sharmila, you are Pride of India, an Inspiration to Youth.’ To me a pilgrimage to Manipur remains my cherished agenda.  

Prof. V P Srivastava taught in the Department of Mathematics at Delhi University. He can be reached at 
vp.srivastava@rediffmail.com 

Wednesday 6 November 2013

PRESS RELEASE: SSSC Nationwide Event Series: Candle Vigil, Seminar and Play organized at Maharashtra and Delhi

             
4 NOV/SSSC-HQ
In the series of nationwide events planned under the initiative of Save Sharmila Solidarity Campaign in solidarity with completion of 13 Years of hunger protest of Irom Sharmila, SSSC today organized a Candle Vigil at Rajghat, New Delhi and A seminar and play at Wardha, Maharasthra. 

In Delhi, people agthered and lit up candles with songs for peace. They demand Release of Irom Sharmila. 


In Wardha, Maharasthra the event was organized at Mahatma Gandhi International Hindi University where the organizer was kafila Sanskriti Manch. During the seminar here eminent academicians participated. Student Coordinator of SSSC at Wardha, Ms. kamala Thokchom told that Jaiparakash Dhumketu, Prof Devraj Sharma, Prof Krishna Kumar Singh and Vice Chancellor Vibhuti Narayan Rai participated in seminar. Brother of Irom Sharmila, Irom Singhjit participated in seminar. After the seminar, a candle vigil was organized from habib Tanveer Hall to Gandhi Hill. 



Prof Jaiprakash expressed sad about facing the problems of insurgence in NE India specially in Manipur,we should support and know the spirit n sacrifice of Irom Chanu sharmila he added.

Prof. Devraj Sharma kept his words targetting on those people who r handling the security persons as their weapon. Until we praised our voiced against such politicians , it'll be difficult to remove AFSPA.

Prof. Krishna Kumar Singh gave a brief about the literary qualities in Sharmila.

Irom shinghajit told about how sharmila started fasting and with the problems that has been facing since her fasting.

As a part of this program some poems n drama are also shown. The drama 'Santoolan doot' is written by Sanjeev Majdoor jha and directed by the actor himself by Bhagwat Prasad patel After all these a candle march was held upto gandhi hill.  
Lastly in presidential speech honourable V.C. Vibhuti Narayana Rai express of how MGAHV university is taking attention to the struggle of Sharmila since 5 yrs. Not only our university but almost all the people of India is with Sharmila











Save Sharmila Solidarity Campaign
(A joint initiative of various organizations & movements)
E-mail:savesharmila@gmail.com        Facebook: Groups/savesharmilacampaign


We welcome your participation/suggestion/feedbacks. 

SOLIDARITY GATHERING AND MEMORANDUM HANDOVER IN HARYANA, J&K, M.P., U.P. AND NEW DELHI

SOLIDARITY GATHERING AND MEMORANDUM HANDOVER IN HARYANA, J&K, M.P., U.P. AND NEW DELHI 


On the third day of Nationwide event series of protest by Save Sharmila Solidarity Campaign, today protest and solidarity gathering were organized at many places.

Till the time of report, 


In New Delhi, many students and teachers turned up for one day fast at Arts faculty of Delhi University. This one day fast was coordinated by Prof V. P. Srivastava and youth activist Himad Peter. Administrations did not permit them to observe fast at Arts faculty and pushed them outside, however on outside, many more joined it and observed one day protest there. Core member Devika Mittal participated along with other volunteers. This gathering was addressed by many intellectuals and senior activists. Senior advocate and activist Prashant Bhushan also participated and addressed the gathering.     









In Panipat - Haryana, Deepak Kathuria , social activist, coordinated the solidarity gathering. Students came with posters of global peace activists and revolutionaries such as Mahatma Gandhi, Bhagat Singh and Dalai Lama. Some senior activists addressed the gathering and told about Irom Sharmila and the importance of non violence. 


In Srinagar-J&K, Wahid Dar, a youth activist and State Coordinator of J&K Democratic Youth Federation, handed over memorandum to DC, Srinagar. Though the DC office was not ready to accept the memorandum in starting, but later after expressing the concern and its importance they received the memorandum. 

In Vidisha-Madhya Pradesh, Arvind Lodhi, a core member of Mission Bhartiyam along with members Ashok Lodhi, Dr Hemant Srivastava and others, submitted a memorandum to District Magistrate. 

In Betul-Madhya Pradesh, Mithilesh Pande, a core member of Mission Bhartiyam, tried to submit the memorandum at DM office, but they were not received. In spite of lot of argument and discussions, DM office did not become ready to accept the memorandum. It will be sent through email and speed post now with a complaint copy to District Magistrate as well as Prime Minister of India office directly. 

In Shahjahanpur, Uttar Pradesh, Saeed Khan Falahi, a peace and human rights activist, handedover memorandum to district magistrate. He submitted it with many signatures from supporters. He also narrated the district magistrate that how even the efforts taken in Shahjahanpur will contribute in the struggle to repeal AFSPA and how it is our duty to come forward to save our democratic values. 


BY

Tuesday 5 November 2013

Candle Vigils on Second Day of Nationwide Event Series to mark 13 Years of Irom Sharmila Hunger Protest

5 Nov/SSSC-HQ




On the second day of Nationwide Event series to mark 13 years of completion of Irom Sharmila hunger protest , Students organized a candle vigil at Kanpur as well as Kaithi, Varanasi. 


The kanpur event was coordinated by K. M. Yadav , a youth activist of Asha Parivar. During the vigil, students were told about the contribution of Irom Sharmila in making the democracy strong through her non violent protest. Students also wrote letters to President of India to appeal for release of Irom Sharmila and to repeal AFSPA. 





In Varanasi, Event was organized and coordinated by Vallabh Pandey, a social activist associated with Asha Parivar and RTI forum U.P. During the event, a meeting was also held to spread the voice to demand Repeal AFSPA. 
On 6th Nov, again memorandum will be handedover in local district collector office on the name of Prime Minister of India in district Betul. Jhansi and Vidisha in Madhya Pradesh, In district Basti, Shahjahanpur in U.P. and in Srinagar, J&K.  

In Panipat, Haryana, a protest meet will be organized and memorandum will also be handed over. 

In Delhi, a protest will be organized at Delhi University tomorrow at Arts Faculty. 

TEAM SSSC

Monday 4 November 2013

Memorandum: Appeal for Release of Irom Sharmila Chanu and Demand to Repeal AFSPA

 

 

 

Date: ……………………………

 

To,

 

The Prime Minister of India.

 

Through: District Magistrate, ……………………….....(District/State)

 

Memorandum: Appeal for Release of Irom Sharmila Chanu and Demand to Repeal AFSPA

 

Dear Sir,

 

I would like to draw your attention towards the struggle of Irom Sharmila Chanu, a lady who is on hunger protest in Manipur and now completed 13 years of her fast with demand of Repeal Armed Forces Special Powers Act (AFSPA).

 

Sir, you already know that:

  • For this non violent protest, Irom Sharmila is charged under Commit to Suicide Attempt and cases are lodged in Manipur and Delhi against her. She is under arrest in security ward of JLN Hospital, Imphal. You know that Irom Sharmila is not allowed to meet visitors and family members frequently and also that her protest is completely different from suicide attempt, and rather it is a fast , a non violent way to fight for a social cause.
  • AFSPA has already proven a law that violated human rights. Hundreds of cases regarding fake killings, rapes and loot were reported in the veil of this act. You know that how this act is providing extraordinary powers to security personals and even impunity where no case can be registered against any security personal without pre sanction approval from central government for the areas where AFSPA is imposed. Sadly, probably not a single person prosecuted for any crime among all the reported cases as government never allowed any sanction.

 

You know, that many national and international human rights activists and organizations, Peace activists, Nobel Peace prize winner and other individuals along with people of AFSPA imposed areas, came in support of Irom Sharmila. You know that UN has already asked to repeal this act and recently NHRC in its visit expressed his concern over restrictions in meeting with Irom Sharmila. Recently Amnesty International also expressed concern and launched a petition to Release Sharmila. You also know that even on humanitarian ground, a non violent struggle by a person is something that she valued. You know that we all have been learnt to value truth, justice, equality and non violence. It is also a matter of concern that ignoring her demand that is continue even in 14th year of her non violent protest, may have indirect effects that can go against the very faith in justice, democracy, non violence and peace.

 

In view of these , I/we hereby submitting this memorandum as a part of national solidarity in support of the completion of 13 years of Irom's fast. I/ We demand:

  • To Release Irom Sharmila from all the charges.
  • To Repeal AFSPA from all AFSPA imposed areas in India.

 

By:

  

………………………………….(Name/Organization/District/State/E-mail)

…………………………………..

……………………………………

………………………………………

……………………………………….

 

For Save Sharmila Solidarity Campaign (SSSC)

Blog: www.repealafspa.blogspot.com Web: www.savesharmila.org E-mail: savesharmila@gmail.com

 

*Save Sharmila Solidarity Campaign (SSSC) is a nationwide protest and a joint initiative of various organizations and movements that is struggling for Repeal AFSPA and to support Irom Sharmila. We already had various events throughout India with support of lakhs of our supporter.

*District Magistrate office is requested to provide a receiving of this memorandum.  

PRESS RELEASE: Nationwide Solidarity Events of SSSC with 13 Years of Irom Sharmila's Fast

New Delhi / 04 NOV/ SSSC-HQ


With completion of 13 Years of fast by Irom Sharmila, SSSC (Save Sharmila Solidarity Campaign) planned a nationwide solidarity event that will be observed at various places. 

During these solidarity events that is to be organized during 4,5,6 November, various organizations and groups are organizing events. These events include Public meeting to memorandum submission. 

With the recent campaign initiated by Amnesty International, for release of Irom Sharmila; SSSC also trying to spread the appeal of Amnesty during its planned events throughout India. 

SSSC, in its statement told that it is campaigning for Repeal AFSPA and its coordinators, members and supporting organizations are organizing events throughout India, we in our memorandum demand for Repeal AFSPA. We also endorse Amnesty Appeal of Release of irom Sharmila and we demand for it. We are trying to spread the Amnesty missed call support registering number 1800 200 009 , so that those who are not directly involved in demand, atleast can register their support through just a missed call. 

Deatils regarding events will be sent later and will be published at SSSC official blog www.repealafspa.blogspot.com 

or to support, Just Give a missed call: 1800 200 0059

Till Now confirmed Actions:

Kerla:
5 Nov 5 PM Public Meeting of SSSC at Gandhi Park, Tiruvanantpuram. Coordinated By Jayachandran Jayachandran RamachandranThe Civil Rights And Social Justice Society(CRSJS) (Mobile: 9846023112) 

Delhi : 
4th Nov: Candle Vigil, Samta Sthal, Rajghat. Coordinated By: Qamar Qamar Intakhab and Richa for SSSC, 9990505438) 

6th Nov: One Day Sit-in Protest, Arts Faculty, University of Delhi. Coordinated By: Prof V. P. Srivastava & Hidam Peter, 8750920261) 


Maharashtra:
$ Nov: Talk Show & Play 4th Nov, Mahatma Gandhi Antarashtriya Hindi Vishwavidyalaya. Coordinated By: Kamala Kamala Thokchom Student Coordinator-SSSC 

Madhya Pradesh:
6th Nov: Vidisha, Memorandum Handover to PM Through DM: Coordinated By Arvind Kumar Arvind Kumar Lodhivand Ashok Lodi (Coordinator- Mission Bhartiyam, 8085855899)

6th Nov: Betul, Memorandum Handover to PM Through DM:
Coordinated By Mithilesh Pande (Coordinator-Mission Bhartiyam, 9840508639) 

6th Nov: Jhansi, Memorandum Handover to PM Through DM:
Coordinated By Kashif Ahmed Faraz (Coordinator-SSSC, 8802879246) 

Uttar Pradesh:
5 Nov: Candle Vigil, Asha Centre-Varanasi. Coordinated By: Vallabh Pandey , ASHA & RTI Campaign U.P.

5 Nov: Protest & Memorandum Handover, D M Office, Basti. Coordinated By:Saurabh Srivastava, 9412774824)

6 Nov: Memorandum Handover, D M Office, Shahjahanpur. Coordinated By: Saeed Khan Saeed Khan Falahi


Gujrat:
4th Nov: Ahemdabad Memorandum submission. Coordinated By Bilal Kagzi , Coordinator SSSC 

Contact us: savesharmila@gmail.com 
By: All supporting Organizations and Individuals, Members of SSSC. For any help, contact us at 9958907799 or at 9582129927

SAVE SHARMILA SOLIDARITY CAMPAIGN (SSSC


 




Sincerely:

Saturday 2 November 2013

Solidarity with 13 Years of Fast of Irom Sharmila

Let us know if you are taking any action on 4th/ 5th/6th November on behalf of SSSC. It is completion of 13 years of fast by Irom Sharmila to repeal AFSPA. 

If you can plan it at your place, please send your name, email and mobile no, organization name and the action you will take. 

You are free to issue a press release by yourself in your area, we will also issue and circulate information of all places and action together. 

You are encouraged to use name of your organization in support of SSSC as SSSC is an open platform of various organizations. 

Suggestions for action that you can take: 
One day fast
Memorandum to CM/Governor/ PM through District Magistrate
Public Meeting
Documentary Screening
Nukkad Natak
Candle Vigil
Pamphlet Distribution 
College/University level activities 
Postcard writing to Irom/PM
Any other thing  


LIST YOUR INITIATIVE IN GIVEN LIST

Till Now confirmed Actions:

Kerla:
5 Nov 5 PM Public Meeting of SSSC at Gandhi Park, Tiruvanantpuram. Coordinated By Jayachandran,The Civil Rights And Social Justice Society(CRSJS) (Mobile: 9846023112) 

West Bengal:
5 Nov: Memorandum Handingover by eminent persons to Governor. Coordinated By Subhajit Das, We The Common People, 9831038821)

Delhi : 
4th Nov: Candle Vigil, Samta Sthal, Rajghat. Coordinated By: Qamar Intekhab, Faisal Khan by NAPM & Khudai Khidmatgar, 9990505438) 

6th Nov: One Day Sit-in Protest, Arts Faculty, University of Delhi. Coordinated By: Prof V. P. Srivastava & Hidam Peter, 8750920261) 


Maharashtra:
$ Nov: Talk Show & Play 4th Nov, Mahatma Gandhi Antarashtriya Hindi Vishwavidyalaya. Coordinated By: Kamala Thokchom, Student Coordinator-SSSC  
 
Madhya Pradesh:
6th Nov: Vidisha, Memorandum Handover to PM Through DM: Coordinated By Ashok Lodi (Coordinator- Mission Bhartiyam) 

Uttar Pradesh:
5 Nov: Candle Vigil, Asha Centre-Varanasi. Coordinated By: Vallabh Pandey , ASHA & RTI Campaign U.P.

5 Nov: Protest & Memorandum Handover, D M Office, Basti. Coordinated By: Saurabh Srivastava, 9412774824)
 
By: All supporting Organizations and Individuals, Members of SSSC. For any help, contact us at 9958907799 or at 9582129927

SAVE SHARMILA SOLIDARITY CAMPAIGN (SSSC)

Monday 28 October 2013

PRESS RELEASE: SSSC WELCOMES NHRC VISIT

SSSC WELCOMES NHRC VISIT


27 October 2013. New Delhi

 

For the NHRC camp at Imphal, Manipur, Save Sharmila Solidarity Campaign (SSSC) congratulates NHRC team and people of Manipur. SSSC in its statement welcomes the visit and said that this visit is a partial victory of all efforts to repeal AFSPA.


'Visit by NHRC must be seen as taking cognizance of people of Manipur who are affected by AFSPA. Though we know that it is too late and we doubt that this visit will hardly bring any concrete result, but we must see it in positive manner and a step that took place after lot of efforts by lot of groups, campaigns, organizations and individuals.


We, as a campaign believes that even a small step from any side towards addressing the human rights violations in Manipur, must be seen as a step ahead in our continuous struggle for establishing democratic values and maintaining peace.


We also see that with the demand of Repeal AFSPA, visit of NHRC to Manipur and to meet with people of Manipur and Irom Sharmila, was one of the demand of SSSC and it was for a particular reason that NHRC is a prime agency of looking towards human rights and we, the people must be capable to make it accountable to took cognizance of violations of rights, and with the sense of this responsibility, we tried to put all the pressure upon it'

   

It is to note that SSSC continuously tried to raise the voice before NHRC and urged it to visit Manipur regarding human rights violations. Apart from the various activities of protest, signature campaigns and awareness among people, SSSC never gave up its efforts to put pressure upon NHRC.


It was SSSC RTI, filed by Ravi Nitesh, a core member of SSSC that revealed that NHRC has not conducted any official visit of Manipur in last 11 years (from the year 2000 to 2011) regarding human rights violations there or to meet Irom Sharmila. This revelation got place in North East media and even Aruna Roy, activist and the then member of National Advisory Committee expressed her concern over this.

SSSC delegation that includes Megsesey awardee Dr Sandeep Pandey, Core member Devika Mittal with other delegates met with NHRC chairperson regarding AFSPA, Irom Sharmila and submitted a memorandum to him with the demand to investigate cases of human rights violations and to visit Manipur to meet Irom Sharmila and people of Manipur. During this delegation meet, NHRC chairperson took cognizance of the memorandum and promised to address the issue.


SSSC team had followed up with NHRC through meetings and letters. 

First time in its history, NHRC had discussed the SSSC memorandum before its group where various opinions including visit of Manipur, reviewing and studying AFSPA etc were discussed.


SSSC told that though it is actively engaged in spreading awareness about Irom Sharmila's fast and cases of human rights violations in AFSPA imposed areas and with this awareness among people on one side, and with the continuous pressure upon government through protest, sit-in, letters, newspapers articles, delegation meetings etc on other side, SSSC will take more steps in coming future to put pressure for the demand of repeal AFSPA. 


By:

Team SSSC

Sunday 21 July 2013

Protest organised at Jantar Mantar against Ramban Massacre of J&K

On the appeal of Save Sharmila Campaign and Mission Bhartiyam, a protest was organised against the Ramban Massacre by BSF that claimed 6 lives and injured 44 others, at Jantar Mantar, New Delhi. 

Save Sharmila Solidarity Campaign is a nation-wide campaign in support of Irom Sharmila and for the repeal of the draconian law of AFSPA. For two years, it has been working to spread awareness, mobilise support and generate political pressure to repeal the law. It is an umbrella of many civil society organisations. The protest was joined and supported by many progressive groups namely AISA, Campus Front of India, Jamia Teachers' Solidarity Association, Jamia Students solidarity, NCHRO, RYA, PUCL, J&K RTI and PUDR among several others.


The BSF had opened fired on a mob that was protesting against the alleged manhandling by BSF personnel of a local imam, followed by the reported desecration of the Holy Quran the previous night. The following morning, a group of protestors had reached a BSF post in Gool in Ramban district and they were responded with a massacre.  

But as this was not the first incident and laws like AFSPA will ensure that it may not be the last. Thus, the protest was organised to demand:

*A speedy inquiry, within a given time frame
*Prosecute the guilty
*REPEAL AFSPA and other similar draconian laws
*Remove all the military forces from civilian areas of Kashmir 


The Protestors had marched on the Jantar Mantar road, shouting slogans and holding placards. But police force were deployed and road was barricaded so protestors went till barricades and then sat there for at least two hours. They shouted slogans and many people voiced their concerns and opinion on the issue. A large number of people from J&K and North East had participated. The speakers were from various organizations and included Ravi Nitesh from Mission Bhartiyam, Mohd Tanveer from NCHRO, Amit, Sandeepan and V Arun from AISA, Dr Muzaffar Bhat from J&K RTI forum, Piyush from JNSU, Hemant from DSU, Talha Huseyn from Campus Front, Asad Ashraf from JSS, Manjit from PUDR, Guneet from PUCL, Dar Rashid a Human Rights lawyer from J&K and Devika Mittal from Save Sharmila Solidarity Campaign and some other activists and student leaders.

“The Ramban incident is a prima facie case of coercive method adopted by the security personals. It highlights the highhanded attitude of the security forces that they have acquired over a period time due to their absolute powers and the impunity granted to them”, said Ravi Nitesh, founder of Mission Bhartiyam.

“There is a long list of incidents where security personals of almost all wings have violated the human rights in J&K.  There have been fake encounters, torture, rapes etc. in the state but nothing has been done to prosecute the culprits till now. So there is every reason to believe that like other similar incidents before, there will be no action taken by the government against security personals in Ramban massacre too. In such situation the only option left for the democratic forces to raise voice against such injustices”, said Mohammad Tanveer of Campus Front of India.

Dr, Muzaffar Bhat of J&K chapter of RTI pointed out that, “This incident happened in Jammu which is seen to be more “peaceful”. So there cannot be any justification. It shows that the entire Kashmir is under attack."

Devika Mittal of Save Sharmila Solidarity Campaign talked about these incidents to be frequent in Kashmir and states of North East. “It is shameful that these incidents are happening in the World’s largest “democracy”. It is shameful that these killings are justified in the name of upholding the ‘integrity’ of the nation. We feel that development, basic civil rights, basic amenities and justice should be used to uphold the ‘integrity’ not torture.", she argued. 

The protest was supported by renowned Activists like Gautam Navlakha, Prashant Bhushan, Manisha Sethi, Dr Sandeep Pandey and many others.

The protestors will submit a memorandum with the above-mentioned demands to the Prime Minister, to the Ministry of Defense and to the Home Ministry. 


Tuesday 25 June 2013

6 killed in fake encounter in Manipur

Six NSCN-k (Nationalist Social Council of Nagaland - Khaplang) cadres have been killed by the Assam Rifles  in a fake encounter in Senapati district in Manipur. The NSCN-K cadres are currently in talks with the Government and so were not involved in any violent activities.

On Saturday, the CO of 10 AR(Assam Rifles) had invited them over tea in the Longmai village, Tamelong district. They had gone in civilian clothes. On Sunday morning, the troops of 10 AR had claimed to kill militants in Tamelong district. They had killed these cadres. The dead bodies were dressed in camoflague and had arms when they did not take any.



According to Nagaland Post, the MIP of NSCN-k has condemned this fake encounter. He said that they had responded because it was a friendly invitation for a friendly meeting. But this has turned out to be one of the biggest betrayal.

He is right. When peace is possible, why is violence being used? The separatists are ready to talk, they are ready to negotiate, adopt peaceful methods, why is the Indian army and state adopting violence? who is the evil then? 


Read More: Nagaland Post , The People's chronicle , E-pao 




Friday 31 May 2013

Letter to NHRC to intervene in cases of human rights' violation in Kashmir and North-East India

To,

The Chairperson
National Human Rights Commission
Faridkot House
New Delhi 110001

Subject: Request to act in the cases of human rights' violation in North-East and Jammu & Kashmir

Respected Sir,

With due respect, we request you to kindly consider this as a letter from one human being to another. This is about a situation that NHRC is well-aware of. We know that hundreds of letters, appeals and requests have been sent to NHRC. As members of Save Sharmila Solidarity Campaign, we have met you twice regarding this issue. Sir, the issue remains the same - to save the life of people of North east and Jammu & Kashmir from the demon named AFSPA or Armed Forces Special Powers Act.

It is a fact that the world has acknowledged the struggle of eche Irom Sharmila. They salute her for her sustained faith in the democratic and non-violent way of struggle. It is also a fact that UN has also questioned India on the validity of this law. The UN had recognised the horrendous lives that the AFSPA has granted to the unfortunate people of these states. The Government-appointed Jeevan Reddy committee had also demanded the repeal of the law. These are all facts. But these are not the grounds on which we appeal to you.

We appeal to you on a humanitarian basis. Sir, we are not from these states. But this cause does move us, for the reason that we are human beings. It is unimaginable and unacceptable to us the horror in which people of these states live. Every day is a struggle for them to save their life and honour. Sir, you know about the horrendous incidents of the Malom massacre where 11 innocent people including a 60 year old lady and a recipient of the Child Bravery award had died, the Kunan Poshpora incident of Kashmir wherein about 100 women were raped by army men, the Shopian case, the case of Manorama Devi but these are only few cases. There are everyday stories of torture. Everyday is a struggle to escape from the clutches of the army men. The landscape in these states is mapped by army check-points and camps which are impossible to pass without being interrogated. In Kashmir, failing to show the identity card can mean torture, rape or killing. But this does not mean that the house is a safe place. Any moment, the army men can come and raid the house. According to news reports and research reports (enclosed), during the search operations, there have been many reported and unreported cases of sexual assault and rape. The night is most dreadful as the armymen begin their search. In the name of searching for "millitants", all they do is to raid into villages, break-open doors of any random house and identify the male in the house as a "suspect". The widows of these "suspects" is also not able to get any state benefit meant for widows because their deceased husband are regarded as militants. We have enclosed several stories. According to a report entitled ‘Manipur: Memorandum on Extrajudicial Summary or Arbitrary Executions’ submitted by the Civil Society Coalition on Human Rights in Manipur and the UN to the UN Special Rapporteur on Extrajudicial Summary or Arbitrary Executions reported that 1528 people, including 31 women and 98 children were killed in fake encounters by security forces in Manipur between 1979 and May, 2012.

Sir, you had said that this is the issue of Government and the Government has to take action but Sir, they are clearly not bothered. The report of the Jeevan Reddy Committee had gone to the Government. The State Governments obviously know the situation but still no-one is ready to do anything. So then what? Where do the common people go? Isin't it the responsibility of NHRC to protect their rights? It is a matter of right to life. Why can't NHRC do anything? NHRC is an autonomous body. If even NHRC will not take any action, where will the people go? It is not acceptable that a certain section of the population should suffer to save the "integrity" of the nation. And which integrity, Sir? And more importantly, at what cost? The people who are suffering every day, are their lives not precious? are they not human beings? What is their fault? What was the fault of those 11 civilians who were shot dead only because the Assam rifles could not shoot down the militants? Their fault was that they were not privileged like you and me and were born in these states. This was their only fault. Sir, is it acceptable?

We are proud to say that our politics has so many women politicians. We are proud to dub it as "women empowerment" but what about the rapists in army uniform who rape our sisters in Kashmir and North East India. What about Asiya, Nilofar, Manorama Devi and thousands of women who have been raped. What about Irom Sharmila? For 12 years, the lady has been on a hunger-strike and no-one cares. She is accused of committing suicide but is that the case? The lady was not even a direct victim of AFSPA but she has sacrificed her life to repeal the cause because she has seen the horrors. Aren't you sympathetic towards her? She could have got married, have kids, would have migrated to Delhi or to some other place but she did not do that. She is under house arrest in a hospital. Today, she can't even talk properly. When she came to Delhi, even though we had only seen her in the photographs, we were traumatized to see her condition. Today, the lady can't even walk. She has become so weak, yet she has not lost hope. Sir, we feel helpless as we write this letter because there is really nothing that we could do for her and for these people who are suffering only because they had a hard luck of being born in these states. They are no different from me or from anyone else in this country, then why do they have to suffer? A kashmiri youth had said that, "While you people grew up playing, we grew up seeing guns." He also said that in Kashmir, there is an increasing no. of blind youths as the army men fire pellets into their eyes if they protest against any extra-judicial killing, murder or rape.

Is this inhumanity acceptable? Should we turn blind to their sufferings? Should we turn deaf to the screams and wails of mothers, widows and children? What about our own conscience?

As about the law, is this the way to "integrate" the nation? By torturing innocent people, destroying their lives, rendering them unemployed, how are we integrating the nation? As about the militants, is this the way to deal? The Government should open talks with them, instead of punishing the innocent people for the crimes of the militants. Torturing innocent people, depriving them of basic rights, underdevelopment are also causes that do encourage people to take up arms. The Government should think of "integration" in more positive and humane ways. NHRC must break its silence and speak out.

Sir, we request you to kindly respond and act strictly and immediately on this issue. Please take action through the following ways:

*Send a fact-finding team to all AFSPA-imposed states to investigate into the cases of violence and the affected everyday life of the people.
*The report of the team should be analysed and a document on the validity of the law on account of the human rights' violation should be made. NHRC can atleast suggest on the basis of evidence.
*The report should be sent to the Government, to the judiciary and other authorities and demand an action.
It is not about a law, it is about the lives of thousands of human beings.

Sir, we request you to please intervene to save the life and honour of the people of North East and Jammu & Kashmir. If NHRC will not take action, where will the people go? Please save their lives from this draconian law. Laws can't be bigger than people.

Hoping for a positive and immediate response.

Thanking You

Regards,
Ravi Nitesh and Devika Mittal
Volunteers of Save Sharmila Solidarity Campaign

Friday 10 May 2013

Don’t You Have A Sharmila Within You?

By Ravi Nitesh

Sangai Express (http://www.thesangaiexpress.com/tseitm-25987-don-t-you-have-a-sharmila-within-you/

When you talk about her, you automatically relate yourself with her, with her pain and struggle, with all the sufferings of her and this association happens without force, it is because somewhere your soul is same as her or as any other human being. This association with someone's pain and sufferings is based on the very nature of humanity because humanity is a virtue of being human and regardless of specific identity.

The continuous demand of Irom Sharmila through a non violent protest under which she adopted path of hunger protest and observing it since last 12 years, is itself a struggle that needs lot of power and self belief and self motivation. It is all towards your fight as an individual for the objective of welfare of a large group who are associated with you with the relation of humanity. When you write about her, when you hear about her and when you talk about her, its all about your contribution also in a larger struggle for the sake of justice. We all know about the cause for which she is on hunger protest. It is for the better administration, a rule of justice, a peaceful environment. The rule against which she is on protest is a draconian law in real terms. There were hundreds of examples where it can be proved that this rule named 'armed forces special powers act' violated the rights and attacked on humanity. She through her protest dedicated herself towards sacrifice as a protest. Her sacrifice is actually not about suicide (as claimed by rule of law of India), instead it is towards enriching the life of self and others with building a safe environment of living , of living with dignity as in true sense life without dignity and humanity is actually no life. We all must have to live our life for such causes in our own areas.

If you will see closely, you will understand that you too have same spirit the Sharmila has. When you will think, you will find that there is an automatic respect in your soul for her. You must had experience of your own struggle that you ever fought for a right cause at your home, school or work place and this fight of your life , though , you might suffered during your fight but it is sure that you had realized the need for this fight and the satisfaction after following your inner voice. If you would left the option to fight then you might feel guilty of not doing anything. It happens with everyone, our hearts sometime tell us to help someone, to fight something, to shout on , to raise our voice, to make our people and government more effective, and on the next instant, we again back to our life. Sharmila had the same feelings and emotions that you have, she is as like you as you are for yourself, she is a sister, daughter and fellow citizen. The only difference between you and Sharmila is that she fought and struggled for the cause for a long time and she did not come back to normal life. She became so motivated that she decided to live with dignity. Her soul became so pure for a specific purpose that she get diverted from all worldly affairs. It is the time for all of us, to identify a Sharmila within us and to think and to associate with the great cause of her. It is a fight that she is not fighting for herself instead for all of us who believe in justice.


It is a time to identifying our potential in our hearts and souls that make ourselves a follower of truth. It is a time to think about future generations and to contribute in building an atmosphere of fearless minds. Its not only fight of Manipur or other NE states or J&K, its not only fight of those who lost their persons in resulted this rule, instead it is a demand by the persons who believe in humanity and rights and justice for all. We all are living Sharmila in our heart because we are determined to support the Repeal AFSPA cause and moreover to the all and any cause that can enrich humanity and that can remove ill effects of present rules imposed by society or government at any place.

Join us at: savesharmila@gmail.com 

From:
Ravi Nitesh, New Delhi (INDIA)

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DISCLAIMER:
Any views or opinions presented in this email are solely mine and my employer is not related/responsible for any material of this mail. The sole responsibility will be mine, in case of any dispute.

Tuesday 5 March 2013

IROM SHARMILA CAME TO DELHI

On 3rd March, Irom Sharmila came to delhi for a court hearing that was scheduled for 4th March. Several members from the Save Democracy Repeal Afspa Campaign had gone to recieve her at the IGI Airport. She was taken to the Manipur House where members of several organisations and Faisal Khan and Daniel Mung of Save Sharmila Solidarity Campaign were also present. Some of them had also interacted with her. Faisal Khan of Save Sharmila Solidarity Campaign had interacted with her. 


Irom Sharmila was accused under IPC 309 for committing "suicide". She had refused to plead guilty in the court. She said that she was not committing suicide. She said that she loves life and does not want to take her life. She remarked, "I value life and justice"

The court had also permitted her 5 minutes to talk to the media. A large crowd of supporters had gathered outside the Patilala Court. They shouted anti-AFSPA slogans and shared experiences in the AFSPA-imposed states. The police had also man-handled the crowd several times. They were not allowed to enter the court. 

She was then taken back to the Manipur House and next day in the morning at 7, she has been taken back to Imphal.