IMPHAL: Manipur State authorities provided ‘security escort’ after the Election Commission of India directed them, but she has refused, reports say. She has no enmity with anyone and has “nothing to fear about” so she does not need security the report said. Irom Sharmila does not approve of the “VIP culture” of being surrounded by armed forces and wants to be with the people. Additional Chief Secretary Mr. J Suresh Babu said, “The state authorities are doing their part as the ECI has directed them to provide security to Sharmila as she travels alone almost all the time”. “Security has been provided to Sharmila for her own safety,” he told the press. Convener of Sharmila’s party People’s Resurgence and Justice Alliance (PRJA) has said that Erendro, said six personnel from the state armed forces were provided for her security and they follow her continuously”. The state authorities must provide escort to Sharmila as she is contesting the upcoming 11th Manipur State assembly elections from Thoubal, the home turf of incumbent Chief Minister O Ibobi Singh. The People’s Resurgence and Justice Alliance (PRJA), a political party has been formed by human rights activist turned politician Irom Sharmila who has fielded three candidates for the upcoming polls in the state.]]>
