Thaindian News

Hyderabad, June 27 (IANS) The indefinite fast by a leader of backward classes (BC) entered the third day here Sunday as leaders of political parties made a beeline to meet him at the hospital.
The health of R. Krishnaiah deteriorated further but he refused to break his fast unless the government fulfils all the demands relating to the welfare of backward classes, mainly payment of arrears towards the fee reimbursement and scholarships for BC students.

Doctors at the government-run Gandhi Hospital said his condition deteriorated as he refused to take any food or treatment. They said the level of his blood pressure was a cause of concern.

Krishnaiah had launched his indefinite fast Friday but the same evening police arrested him and forcibly shifted him to the hospital but he continued his fast.

The government has accused the BC leader of using an issue relating to students for his selfish interests.

Chief Minister K. Rosaiah sees a conspiracy behind the indefinite fast by Krishnaiah to tarnish the name of his government though it was going out of the way to safeguard the interests of BCs.

He questioned the need for a protest when the government decided to release Rs.1,500 crore in July and August to clear the arrears towards reimbursement of tuition fee of students belonging to backward classes.

The Congress government has accused managements of some private colleges of instigating Krishanaiah as they were warned that the government would close down colleges which barred from appearing in examinations students whose fee was not reimbursed.

Meanwhile, leaders of opposition parties made a beeline to the hospital to meet the fasting leader. Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) state president Kishan Reddy met him Sunday. Leaders of TDP, BJP, PRP and Left parties also called on Krishnaiah.