Anna not in a hurry to end fast

NEW DELHI: With the Centre showing signs of wilting under pressure to concede demands of Anna Hazare, the anti-graft crusader has made it clear that he was not in any hurry to call off his hunger strike, triggering concerns about his health.

"My fast has entered the ninth day. Nothing will happen to me. I can fast for another nine days. We will fight together," a visibly feeble Anna told a rapturous crowd at Ramlila Maidan on Wednesday.

Despite his bravado, there were concerns over how long he could continue fasting without medical intervention. Doctors attending to him have advised his hospitalisation, but he has consistently turned down suggestions to this effect. "I am receiving energy from the enthusiasm of the crowd. Some people have spoiled the country, we will all together re-build the country," Hazare said.

His health may have been failing, but the 74-year-old Gandhian remained firm in his resolve. "Yesterday, the government agreed to our demands, but kept a decision pending on three issues," he said, adding, "If the demands are not met, I have decided that I will fight till my last breath,'' he said.

He was referring to the three sticking points which have held up a compromise on the contents of the anti-corruption legislation - citizen's charter, inclusion of lower bureaucracy within its ambit and setting up of Lokayuktas in states through Lokpal.

"From village to mantralaya, everyone should be brought under Lokpal. It has become very difficult for the poor to avail any service since the chain of corruption went from bottom to top." He said from getting a ration card, kerosene and health services, nothing can be done without paying a bribe. "This chain has to be broken." On the demand for citizen's charter, Hazare said government offices should display a board which gives details about the officers and what services will be available there.

"It should specify in how many days you will get the service you seek. If any officer fails to provide the service in the time specified by the charter, he can be punished by Lokpal. It does not end here, Lokpal should also have powers to dismiss him,'' he said.