Sharmila, who was 28 at the time of Malom Massacre, began to fast in protest.[13] Her primary demand to the Indian government has been the repeal of the Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act (AFSPA).[4][13][18] She began her fast in Malom on 5 November, and vowed not to eat, drink, comb her hair or look in a mirror until AFSPA was repealed.[19]