Irom Sharmila opposes MHA guidelines to meet prisoners

IMPHAL: Irom Chanu Sharmila, who is on a fast for 15 years demanding repealing of Armed Forces Special Power Act (AFSPA), today opposed the guidelines of Union Ministry of Home Affairs to meet prisoners.

"The MHA's terms and conditions to deposit Rs one lakh to meet a prisoner like me is nothing but to shatter the freedom of speech of political prisoners in the country," she told newsmen after coming out from a court here.

She appeared before the court as routine production during the day, which marks the 15th year of her fast.

The court fixed the date for next hearing on November 23.

The MHA in July came out with tougher guidelines to regulate the entry of NGOs and filmmakers into the prison for making documentaries.