Hazare loses weight, continues fast

Amid growing concerns over his health Wednesday, Anna Hazare's three-day fast entered its second day at the almost deserted MMRDA Ground here, his aides said.

Though the 74-year-old is on medication, his physician D.G. Pote ruled out the need to shift him to a hospital.

Speaking to reporters, Pote said Hazare had lost weight due to his illness and the hunger strike.

Hazare's weight is now 70.5 kg, a loss of around 1.5 kg in last five-six days. However, his blood test reports are normal.

"His temperature was 100 degrees fahrenheit compared to 102 last (Tuesday) night, pulse rate has come down to 72 from 96, and blood pressure is 152/90," Pote said after examining Hazare at the MMRDA Ground in Bandra-Kurla Complex Wednesday.

He said that Hazare has been advised rest, to speak less and to refrain from exerting himself.

Manish Sisodia, a key member of Team Anna, said that Hazare's health was a matter of serious concern and other team members have appealed to him to call off his hunger strike.

Hazare, who retired into his room adjacent to the stage Tuesday evening, has not ventured out since.

The mercury in Mumbai touched a 10-year low of 11.4 degrees Celsius Tuesday. Similar weather conditions are likely to continue for the next couple of days.

The sprawling MMRDA Ground, the fast venue, wore a deserted look with only security personnel, journalists and a handful of Team Anna activists in attendance.

Meanwhile, at least half a dozen vehicle-loads and a couple of buses carrying Hazare supporters are expected to arrive here later in the day from his native village Ralegan-Siddhi.

It was reported that over 200 people, including women, senior citizens and children, would go and appeal to Hazare to call off his fast in view of his health conditions.