The Anna Hazare camp is bracing itself against a possible government move to forcibly hospitalise the social activist late tonight, after talks between the two sides failed to end the deadlock.
A member of the India Against Corruption said they were preparing to follow Anna wherever he was taken and to sit outside the hospital in a dharna if necessary and court arrest. The plan is to launch a jail baro protest nationwide, said Bibhav Kumar spokesperson of the anti-corruption movement. “If the governemnt was worried about the crowds gathering here, it would be worse when it gathers in the streets.”
Echoing similar views, team Anna member Arvind Kejriwal said: “If the governmet was really concerned about Anna's health let them table the Jan Lok Pal Bill in Parliament tomorrow. We will not allow anything that is against the wish of Anna.”
The statement issued by the activists on Wednesday also indicated that Anna's health was deteriorating. Swami Agnivesh said he disagreed with Anna Hazare's insistence to continue with the fast because his life was more precious and he should take medical help.
It was a catch 22 situation both for the government and team Anna if his health deteriorates. While the government will face public anger, it would be even worse for the people behind Hazare, said Venkatesh Nayak an activist and member of NCPRI. Meanwhile, the Opposition maintained the chorus demanding the withdrawal of the government draft of the proposed bill but the Centre ruled it out.