By IANS,
New Delhi : As activist Anna Hazare’s agitation at the Ramlila Maidan here for a strong Lokpal bill entered its ninth day Wednesday, there is growing anger among his supporters who are accusing the government of dragging its feet on the issue and being least bothered about Hazare’s deteriorating health.
“It has been nine days now and it was only yesterday that talks commenced between the two sides. Were they waiting for (Congress president) Sonia Gandhi to return? Why did they react so late,” asked 27-year-old fashion photographer Anoushka Ghai.
Agreed businessman Sameer Mitra. “Last time they took seven days to budge and this time it’s the ninth day and still talks are on. This attitude shows the government’s arrogance.”
“Why can’t the prime minister intervene? Is he waiting for somebody’s direction,” asked Mitra, 45.
Meanwhile, there were also some supporters who were fearing an attempt by police to force feed Hazare soon.
“They forced Baba Ramdev to leave forcefully and won’t hesitate to indulge in similar actions again,” said Anupam Singh, a 54-year-old taxi driver.
“The government cannot afford to let something happen to Annaji. So, if they don’t reach a conclusion, they will surely take some action,” he added.
The heavy deployment of security personnel added to the supporters’ apprehensions.
“I’ve been coming here since Friday but today (Wednesday) there are so many commandos standing outside. I wonder what they are here for,” said 43-year-old shopkeeper Danish Ibrahim.
“I have a hunch that some action might be taken by the authorities tonight,” added Ibrahim, a resident of nearby Darya Ganj.
Worried about Hazare’s failing health, homemaker Malti Sharma conducted a “havan” in the marquee and prayed for the activist’s long life.
“I am very worried about his (Hazare) health. He has become so frail and is not able to even walk properly,” said 58-year-old Sharma, a homemaker accompanied by her husband.
“Doesn’t this government have any empathy towards an old army man,” she asked