Delhi Minister Atishi’s health deteriorated significantly early on Tuesday morning, prompting her hospitalization after several days of an indefinite hunger strike protesting Haryana’s withholding of Delhi’s rightful share of water. Atishi’s hunger strike, which began as a protest against Haryana’s stance on water allocation, intensified as she continued without food, despite the worsening impact on her health.
According to a statement from the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), Atishi’s condition became critical as her blood pressure and blood sugar levels dropped dangerously low. The AAP described her ketone levels as high, indicating potential long-term health risks. Despite these health concerns, Atishi remained steadfast in her commitment to continue the hunger strike until Haryana released the promised water supply to Delhi and opened the gates of the Hathnikund Barrage.
AAP leader Sanjay Singh conveyed the seriousness of Atishi’s health condition, noting that her blood sugar levels had dropped to a precarious 43. He emphasized that her hospitalization was necessary to prevent further deterioration. Atishi, known for her advocacy on critical issues affecting Delhi, including education and healthcare, maintained that her hunger strike was not just for her own cause but for the 28 lakh (2.8 million) Delhiites affected by the water shortage.
The water scarcity issue in Delhi has been exacerbated by a reported shortfall of 100 million gallons per day (MGD) in supply from Haryana. This shortage has severely impacted residents, who have been forced to rely on water tankers amid rising temperatures and heatwave conditions. Despite assurances and discussions, including a meeting between Delhi Lieutenant Governor VK Saxena and AAP leaders where assurances were made by Haryana’s Chief Minister to explore additional water supply options, the situation remains unresolved.
Saurabh Bharadwaj, another AAP leader, highlighted that Atishi’s blood sugar levels had dropped even further to 36, underscoring the urgency of her hospitalization. Doctors continue to monitor her condition closely at LNJP Hospital, assessing her vitals and providing necessary medical care.
The AAP’s efforts to draw attention to the water crisis and Atishi’s personal sacrifice through her hunger strike have underscored the severity of the situation in Delhi. With temperatures soaring and water shortages persisting, the plight of Delhi’s residents remains a pressing concern amidst ongoing efforts to resolve the crisis with Haryana. Atishi’s determination to continue her protest until tangible solutions are implemented reflects her deep commitment to securing essential resources for the people she serves.
