By TCN News,
New Delhi: Joining the demand of Manipuri people, Students Islamic Organization of India has demanded repeal of Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act, 1958, saying the law breaches the international human rights standards. The students body of national presence vowed to “continue its support for Manipuri people.”
Addressing a program titled “Story of oppression – Unheard Voice from Manipur”, organized by SIO at its headquarters in the national capital, SIO National Secretary Shahnawaz Ali Raihan said: “The Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act, 1958 which breach the international human rights standards must be repealed.” Irrespective of caste, creed, religion –SIO of India is committed to raise its voice for voiceless, he further said. “This is what earlier Prophets done while fighting for the just cause of Humanity. In the past we raised our voice for justice in Nadigram, Tibet, Palestine, Iraq etc and in future SIO will continue its support for Manipuri people to fight against any kind of discrimination,” he said.
Malem Ningthouja speaking, Shahnawaz Ali Raihan and Irom Singhjeet Singh (L-R) sitting
Addressing the gathering, Malem Ningthouja, Chairperson, Campaign for Peace and Democracy (Manipur) termed the Armed Forces Act as a license to violate Human Rights in the name of maintaining public order.
“Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act, 1958 is a license for Indian Army to violate Human Rights in the name of maintaining public order in disputed lands. With the help of Government such oppressive law helps capitalist groups to make their hold strong in areas like North East India which is bestowed with huge amount of natural resources,” said Ningthouja.
Irom Singhjeet Singh, elder brother of civil rights activist Irom Chanu Sharmila, shared the story of her sister’s 10-year-long battle against armed force brutality in Manipur. He informed the audience that her sister Sharmila will continue her hunger strike until Government repeals the Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act, 1958.