India's 'Iron Lady' ends hunger strike to enter politics
An Indian rights activist who has waged what is thought to be the world's longest hunger strike ended her 16-year fast on Tuesday, two weeks after declaring she was entering politics. Irom Sharmila, dubbed the "Iron Lady of Manipur" for her unwavering protest against rights abuses in the insurgency-hit northeast Indian state, was released on bail after she promised a court she would end her fast. It gives Indian forces sweeping powers to search, enter property and shoot on sight, and is seen by critics as a cover for human rights abuses.