Irom Sharmila has not yet retired from politics, confirmed a member of the PRJA party she has floated.
"She said she would not contest the polls anymore. That does not mean that she has quit politics. Anybody can be a part of the politics without contesting elections," said a member of PRJA.
Sharmila said, on Monday, that she would not contest elections and instead concentrate on her work in the Ashram where she was staying.
“But I will continue fighting against AFSPA,” she had said, hinting that she would not opt for a secluded life.
Confusion prevailed after a leader in her party Erendro Leicehombam, posted on social network, “I have spoken to Sharmila. She has decided to quit politics, but wishes to continue supporting PRJA. This is her personal decision, which we all should respect,” said the post.
It was revealed that before the election, some members of the PRJA wanted Sharmila to be the advisor of the party, not as a president or a member contesting elections.
“In fact they wanted to utilise her image in and outside Manipur to mop up resources. They knew that Sharmila could be a burden as people did not like her decision to quit a 16-year-long fast,” said Sharmila’s brother and an activist, Singhajit Singh.
“She is not quitting politics. She would guide the party, as she is its founder. Maybe she might not contest any election,” said a member of her party.
