said that she may not be able to join the rally as she was confined in judicial custody at Imphal. She however welcomed the invitation.

“My humble suggestion is if you feel seriously, please try to reach the concerned legislators (read authorities) to let me get free to join your amazing crusade to root out corruption which is the root of all evils. Or you can come to Manipur, the most corruption affected region in the world,” the 38 year old striker said in a letter to Team Anna on August 23rd.

Team Anna’s invitation to Sharmila which was mailed to Just Peace Foundation (JPF), a Manipur based body which has been promoting Sharmila’s campaign, said, “The nation needs your voice to be heard. Anna and all of us appeal to you, to lend us your support in letter and spirit and invite you to share in our experience in whatever way you like.” JPF sent one of their representatives to New Delhi as a way of showing solidarity with the nation wide campaign. Irom Singhajit, Sharmila’s brother who has been solidly backing his sister’s campaign, expressing dissatisfaction over the indifferent attitude meted to Anna and Sharmila said, “To me both have similar causes. Anna fights for a corruption free society while Sharmila struggles for the right to life.” “After four days of Anna’s fast, the country was shaken, but why are they neglecting the ten-year old fast of Sharmila?” he asks.

Sobhapati Samom