Born: 1972 (Manipur, India)
Biography:
Irom Chanu Sharmila, also known as the Iron Lady of Manipur or Mengoubi (the fair one), was born on 14 March 1972, in the Indian state of Manipur. Located on the northeastern side of India, Manipur has been plagued by an insurgency that has lasted for several decades. Sharmila grew up in this troubled state, witnessing the suffering and human rights abuses inflicted upon its people.
In 1958, the Indian government passed a law known as the Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act, 1958, which granted security forces in the seven states, including Manipur, the power to search properties without a warrant, make arrests, and use deadly force on individuals suspected of acting against the state. This law, which was aimed at counterinsurgency efforts, often led to human rights violations and widespread violence.
Sharmila had been involved in local peace movements that aimed to address the human rights abuses in Manipur. However, the turning point in her life came on 2 November 2000, when the infamous Malom Massacre took place in the town of Malom in the Imphal Valley. Ten civilians, including a 62-year-old woman named Leisangbam Ibetombi and a National Bravery Award winner, 18-year-old Sinam Chandramani, were shot and killed by the Assam Rifles, one of the Indian Paramilitary forces operating in the state. This tragic event shook Sharmila to her core and drove her to take a drastic step in her fight for justice.
On 5 November 2000, Sharmila initiated a hunger strike to demand the abolition of the Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act, 1958. She refused to consume food or water, enduring immense physical and mental hardships to draw attention to the injustices faced by her people. Despite being nasally force-fed during her imprisonment, Sharmila’s hunger strike continued for an unprecedented 16 years.
During her years of fasting, Sharmila became known as the world’s longest hunger striker. Her unwavering determination and sacrifices made her an iconic figure not only in Manipur but also in the wider Indian society. Her struggle against state-sponsored violence and her fight for human rights resonated with people across the nation.
As Sharmila’s protest gained international attention, she became a symbol of peaceful resistance and a prisoner of conscience in the eyes of Amnesty International. Her hunger strike earned her admiration and support from human rights organizations worldwide. The United Nations’ Special Rapporteur on human rights defenders, Hina Jilani, recognized Sharmila’s unwavering commitment to nonviolence and acknowledged her as a human rights activist of exceptional courage.
On 9 August 2016, after 16 long years, Sharmila ended her hunger strike. Although she did not achieve her goal of abolishing the Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act, 1958 during her protest, her steadfastness had brought immense attention and awareness to the issue of human rights abuses in Manipur.
Throughout her life, Sharmila’s activism extended beyond her hunger strike. She was also involved in poetry and political activism. Her writings reflected her experiences, struggles, and aspirations. Her courage, resilience, and passion for justice continue to inspire countless individuals around the world.