Delhi Water Minister Atishi was hospitalized early Tuesday morning after her health deteriorated due to an indefinite hunger strike against the Haryana government. She has been protesting the non-release of 100 million gallons per day (MGD) of water, which has caused a severe water crisis in the national capital.
Atishi, who had been on hunger strike for five days, was taken to Lok Nayak Jai Prakash (LNJP) Hospital. Doctors had previously examined her on Monday and advised hospitalization due to adverse health effects. Despite the warnings, Atishi initially refused to end her strike.
“My blood pressure and sugar levels are dropping, and my weight has gone down. Ketone level is very high, which can have harmful effects in the long run,” Atishi stated. However, she vowed to continue her fast until Haryana released Delhi’s share of water.
The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) reported that Atishi’s blood sugar levels fell dangerously low, dropping to 43 at midnight and further to 36 by 3 AM. Images and visuals shared by AAP showed Atishi being taken to the hospital.
“Atishi’s blood sugar level fell to 36, so she has been admitted to LNJP Hospital,” tweeted AAP leader and Delhi Minister Saurabh Bharadwaj.
Dr. Suresh, Medical Director at LNJP Hospital, provided an update on Atishi’s health: “Changes were detected in her ECG, and ketones were found in her urine, leading to her being admitted to the ICU. She was advised to get admitted to the hospital yesterday, but she refused. Her sugar level is low. All blood tests have been conducted, and the results are normal. She is currently stable.”
Amidst the water shortage crisis, Atishi accused the BJP-led Haryana government of withholding 100 MGD of water, affecting over 28 lakh people in Delhi. “All of Delhi’s water comes from neighboring states. The BJP government of Haryana has withheld 100 MGD or more than 46 crore liters of water, which is Delhi’s share,” she said.
In response to the ongoing crisis, Delhi cabinet ministers gathered at the hunger strike site in Jangpura and decided to write to Prime Minister Narendra Modi seeking a resolution. The water shortage has been exacerbated by high temperatures and heat waves in the national capital, forcing residents to rely on water tankers for their daily needs.
