Manipur activist Irom Sharmila on Tuesday was granted bail in the case connected with her 16-year-long fast against the Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act at an Imphal Court. The court, which has repeatedly tried her for attempted suicide, allowed her to sign a bail bond of Rs 10,000. However, it has not issued a release order yet, which means she is still in judicial custody.
The bench also wished her luck after she said she will pursue a political career as an independent candidate. Sharmila said she wants to become chief minister of Manipur and continue her fight against AFSPA. However, she has not broken her fast yet, and said she will do so when she is released.
Sharmila had earlier argued for herself in the court, and asked for the charges against her to be dropped. However, the court said it would do so only if she signs a bail bond as part of the release process or pleads guilty to attempted suicide, which she refused to do. The next hearing in the case is scheduled for August 23.
The court is expected to allow Sharmila to leave the hospital ward where she has been kept on suicide watch and fed through a tube. She had announced on July 26 that she would end her fast on August 9. She had also said she would contest the Manipur elections as an independent candidate and marry her long-time partner. Insurgent groups in Manipur, had however, warned her against ending the hunger strike.
Limited-time offer: Big stories, small price. Keep independent media alive. Become a Scroll member today!
Our journalism is for everyone. But you can get special privileges by buying an annual Scroll Membership. Sign up today!