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Journalism of Courage
When social activist Medha Patkar,Magsaysay award winner Sandeep Pandey and Irom Sangeet Irom Sharmilas brother on Sunday flagged off a march to show solidarity with Irom Sharmila,they chose to start it from Srinagar. The reason for this choice was Srinagars proximity to Imphal not geographical but in terms of the Armed Forces Special Powers Act AFSPA.
We believe that at a time when democratic values are required for free and fair world,laws like AFSPA are like a blot on the democracy, Patkar said,demanding revocation of the AFSPA. We are fighting for the dignity and rights of the people.
An amalgam of civil society groups began a 4,500-kilometre march from Kashmir to Manipur,which will pass through several states,to express their support for Sharmila,who has been on fast for the past 11 years demanding the repeal of the AFSPA.
Anna Hazares 12-day hunger strike shook the entire country but they are unable to see Irom Sharmilas 11-year hunger strike, Patkar said. Corruption is not only about taking bribes; it also includes violating human rights.
For Patkar,the march was a small beginning of a long fight for justice. We will fight peacefully till all the draconian laws are removed, she said. We salute Iroms struggle. We all stand with her. She is not alone.
Stressing the significance of the state,she said,We started the march from Kashmir because Kashmir is also a victim of such draconian laws. We reached Kashmir very late. Better late than never. Together we will fight for justice and dignity.
