Irom Chanu Sharmila ended her 16-year hunger strike on Tuesday by consuming a few drops of honey, shedding tears as she did so. The 44-year-old activist, who had been force-fed for years during her protest, then declared her intention to become the Chief Minister of Manipur to bring about positive changes. She emphasized her commitment to democracy and reform, stating that while politics may be seen as dirty, it is an essential part of societal change.
Sharmila’s fast began at age 28 after a massacre in Imphal, demanding the repeal of the Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act (AFSPA), which provides immunity to security personnel in conflict zones. Her decision to end the fast came just a month after the Supreme Court's ruling challenging AFSPA's immunity clauses.
In her first public address after ending the fast, Sharmila made it clear that she is neither an icon nor a goddess but a woman with ordinary desires. She shared her personal aspirations, including her plans for marriage, and expressed her wish for a quiet life, possibly in an ashram. Despite her release from custody, Sharmila remains focused on advocating for the repeal of AFSPA and the right of Kashmiris to self-determination.