Delhi Minister Atishi Hospitalized After Hunger Strike for Water Share
New Delhi, 25th June 2024: Atishi, a Delhi minister, was hospitalized and admitted to the emergency ICU early on Tuesday due to a deterioration in her health caused by a hunger strike. She initiated the strike to protest against Haryana’s refusal to release Delhi’s entitled water share.
The decision to hospitalize Atishi came after doctors advised her due to a significant decline in her health on the fourth day of her fast. Delhi Health Minister Saurabh Bharadwaj informed ANI, “Her blood sugar levels had been decreasing since last night. Initial tests showed her sugar levels at 46. When tested again with a portable device, it was 36… Doctors are monitoring her condition closely before making any further recommendations.”
Atishi herself stated on Monday, “My blood pressure and sugar levels are dropping, and I have lost weight. The ketone levels are dangerously high in the long term. Despite the toll on my body, I am committed to continuing the fast until Haryana releases the water.”
The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) expressed concern for Atishi’s recovery on Tuesday morning, revealing that she had been admitted to the emergency ICU at LNJP Hospital. Later, Medical Director Suresh Kumar provided an update on her condition, stating, “Upon arrival at the hospital, Atishi had low blood sugar levels and was drowsy, with low sodium levels. She is currently receiving IV fluids in the Emergency ICU. Her vital signs are stable at present. Some blood tests have been conducted, and we are awaiting the results.”
Atishi highlighted that Delhi has been facing a deficit of 100 million gallons of water per day (MGD) consistently over the past three weeks.
Delhi Lieutenant Governor VK Saxena met with AAP leaders on Sunday. Following the meeting, Saxena reported that Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini had assured him of exploring the possibility of increasing the water supply to Delhi.
