Hazare reaches Pune, leaves for native village

Pune: Shouts of `Vande Mataram` greeted anti-corruption crusader Anna Hazare as he arrived here late tonight following his discharge from a Gurgaon hospital where he had been undergoing treatment after breaking his 12-day fast on the Lokpal issue.

Hundreds of supporters, carrying the tri-colour, hailed the social activist as he came out of the Pune airport and left for Ralegan Siddhi, his native village about 120 km from here, by road.

Police had a tough time controlling the jostling crowds trying to get a glimpse of Hazare as he boarded a car for Ralegan.

Hazare`s personal assistant Suresh Pathare said the septuagenarian activist would be taking rest tomorrow and would address villagers on Friday.

Earlier, Hazare`s associate Shyam Asawa had told PTI that the Gandhian had spoken to villagers over phone and asked them not to arrange any lavish reception for him.