Sharmila says public apathy forces her to end fast

Manipur's "Iron Lady" Irom Sharmila Chanu, who today surprised many by announcing that she would end her 16-year-old fast next month, said that general "public apathy" to her 'struggle' forced her to take the decision.

The rights activist told the media that she was dismayed by the inability of the government to pay heed to her pleading for repeal of the Armed Forces Special Powers Act (AFSPA) as well as apathy of the civilian bodies which had not given enough support to her fight.

She expressed her disapproval of using school-going students during the agitation for implementation of the Inner Line Permit System in the state.