Ailing Anna Hazare admitted in Pune hospital

Anna Hazare suffering from a severe chest congestion was on Saturday admitted to a private hospital here for further treatment following advice by doctors.

74-year-old Hazare was shifted from Ralegan Siddhi to the hospital after medical examination which showed that he was suffering from a chest infection, a spokesman for Sancheti Hospital said.

The activist has been suffering from a viral infection since he undertook his fast on December 27, which was subsequently withdrawn the next day.

Hazare later went to his native village Ralegan Siddhi in Ahmednagar district for rest and recuperation.

Dr KH Sancheti, who examined Hazare, advised his hospitalisation for proper treatment and speedy recovery from the prolonged infection and fever.

The anti-graft crusader is expected to spend at least four days in the hospital, sources said.

"There is congestion in his (Hazare's) chest and he has strong cough. He can't remain in a single position for a minute. Therefore I've suggested to admit him in Pune," Dr Sancheti had said.

Hazare should get an X-ray done on his chest and undergo other medical investigations in the hospital, he had said.

According to Dr Sancheti, necessary precautions will have to be taken to ensure that the activist's condition did not develop into pneumonia.

Hazare's personal physician Dr Daulat Pote had said on Thursday that the Gandhian was still suffering from weakness owing to a viral infection and had been advised complete rest for at least four days.