Fifteen Burmese pro-democracy activists have staged a 100 hour long hunger strike in New Delhi to protest the Indian government’s close relationship with the Burmese military.

Three New Delhi-based activists started the strike on Tuesday morning and were later joined by 12 Chin Student Union members.

“We support this hunger strike and we welcome US foreign secretary Condoleezza Rice’s call for support to China and India for democratic changes along with US,” said CSU president Sanga, referring to comments made by Rice to US lawmakers at a senate sub-committee on foreign affairs meeting yesterday.

Indian security forces visited the protesters today to monitor their conditions. The hunger strike is due to end at 3 pm on March 31.

Despite opposition from pro-democracy groups living in India, Indian president APJ Abdul Kalam travelled to neighbouring Burma for three days on March 8.

Kalam and junta leader senior general Than Shwe signed agreements across a number of sectors including gas, military affairs and education.