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August 11, 2016

India: Activist Irom Sharmila Ends 16-Year Hunger Strike
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In India, human rights activist Irom Sharmila has ended the world's
longest hunger strike. Sharmila began her strike 16 years ago, after 10
people were reportedly killed by a government paramilitary group in her
home state of Manipur. She broke her strike Tuesday with a lick of
honey. She says she will now run to be chief minister of Manipur. This
is Sharmila speaking to the BBC after breaking her fast.

Irom Sharmila: "Since the beginning of my fast, there is no change in
the mindset of the people. I think I need to change my strategy. And
without power in my hands, who will hear my voice?"

Irom Sharmila is known as the "Iron Lady."


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