Anna Hazare loses 5.5 kg, vital parameters fine

Anna Hazare has lost around 5.5 kg but his vital parameters were fine, aides of the anti-corruption campaigner said on Tuesday as his fast for a strong anti-corruption law entered day eight.

“He is weak but all his vital parameters are fine. Ketone particles (created by the body during starvation) have been found in his blood but they are in the safe limit,” Arvind Kejriwal told reporters at Ramlila Maidan.

According to Manish Sisodia, another Hazare associate, the civil society leader had lost around 5.5 kg since he began his fast and his current weight was 66.4 kg. His blood pressure was 124/82 and pulse rate 84.

"Doctors are regularly monitoring him and as of now there is no need to hospitalise him. His condition is stable," added Sisodia.

Kejriwal urged Hazare's supporters to fast only if their health allowed them to.

“Thousands are fasting around the country. But we would request people to do so only if they are healthy. Anna-ji is fasting on behalf of everyone,” said Kejriwal.

“If you want to contribute, spread as much awareness about the movement as you can,” added Kejriwal.

The eighth day of Hazare's fast began with his supporters singing devotional bhajans and patriotic songs.

There was a dip in the number of supporters Tuesday morning.

"The extended weekend is over. So, that will certainly affect the crowd strength but the numbers will surely rise once the day progresses," said one of the volunteers.

Hazare began his fast on August 16 when he was taken to the Tihar Jail and released the same day -- but he refused to move out. He came out of the jail Friday and continued his fast at Ramlila