Concerns grow over Anna's health

New Delhi, Aug 24 (PTI) Concerns mounted over Indian
social activist 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 yesterday 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.