100 volunteers fast with Anna Hazare

Nearly 100 volunteers began their fast with social activist Anna Hazare, as he began the three-day protest for his version of the lokpal bill.

Nearly 100 volunteers began their fast with social activist Anna Hazare, as he began the three-day protest for his version of the lokpal bill.

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The agitators were a mix of both old and new volunteers. “My father, a freedom fighter, taught us to sacrifice for our country. I will fast for three days and will also participate in the Jail Bharo,” said Usha Sharma, 40, who went on a 12-day hunger strike during the agitation in August. “I always wanted to support the movement. I felt this was the right time to go on a fast,” said Rajshree Kathait, 48, a homemaker.

Pratik Wankhede, 13, a student from Dahisar, was the youngest volunteer on fast at the venue. “My father participated in the August agitation. This inspired me to show my support for Anna. I will also take part in the Jail Bharo ,” said Wankhede.

The number of the volunteers, was, however, low compared to what the India Against Corruption (IAC) had expected. The IAC was expecting 1,000 volunteers would fast with Anna.

Piyush Bhatia, media coordinator, IAC, said, “I am not aware about the number of volunteers on fast.” The volunteers would most likely stay at the state government’s guesthouse in Bandra. “We are trying to put up people on fast in Bandra close to where Anna is residing,” said Anant Nandu, activist of Tarun Mitra Mandal, the NGO looking after protesters on hunger strike.