Concerns grow over Anna Hazare's health

New Delhi, Aug 24: Concerns mounted over Anna Hazare's health after he refused doctors' advice to be put on an intravenous drip once again this morning even though the Gandhian increased his intake of fluid.

The 74-year-old anti-corruption crusader has lost another 200 grams in the past 24 hours with his weight settling at 66.2 kg. He was 72 kg before he began his fast on August 16. His blood pressure was recorded at 104/86 while blood sugar was 106 and pulse rate 82.

"After his intake of fluid was increased, his health has stabilised. We have put the team of doctors on full alert. We are keeping a strict vigil on his health," Dr Naresh Trehan told reporters at the Ramlila Ground after examining him.

Trehan, who along with his team is monitoring Hazare's health, said the Gandhian's water intake has been increased after he refused to be put on IV drips.

He said the doctors had asked Hazare to cooperate with them and take IV drip but he refused, saying his "inner conscience" does not allow him to do so.

"We have examined him this morning. We requested him to be on IV drips but he again refused," Trehan said.

"The ketone level in blood is increasing. We had recommended Hazare's hospitalisation to ensure that he does not come in the danger zone," he said.

Looking tired and unshaven, Hazare made an appearance on the dais around 10:30 am and was cheered by the crowd as he raised his hand chanting ''Bharat Mata ki Jai''.

Hazare on Tuesday disregarded doctor's advice to be put on IV drip and refused to take any medicine and warned government against trying to forcibly evict him from the protest site of Ramlila Maidan here. He asked supporters to block the gates to the grounds if any such attempt was made.

PTI