Veteran BJP leader Lal Krishna Advani has been admitted to Apollo Hospital in Delhi, just days after his discharge from the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS). The 96-year-old former deputy prime minister was taken to Apollo Hospital on Wednesday night, with hospital sources confirming his admission around 9 PM under the care of Dr Vinit Suri, a senior consultant in Neurology. Reports indicate that Advani is stable and currently under observation, though specific details about his ailment have not been disclosed.
Advani’s recent hospitalization follows a night-long stay at AIIMS, where he was receiving treatment in the department of urology under Dr. Amlesh Seth. Despite his advanced age, Advani has been a resilient figure in Indian politics, maintaining a significant presence even in his later years.
Born in Karachi, now part of present-day Pakistan, Lal Krishna Advani has had a distinguished political career. He began his journey in politics with the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) as a swayam sevak in 1942. Advani entered the parliamentary arena in 1970, being elected to the Rajya Sabha. His first Lok Sabha victory came in 1989, when he won from New Delhi, defeating Mohini Giri.
Advani holds the distinction of serving as the longest-standing President of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) since its establishment in 1980. His tenure saw the party rise to prominence, culminating in his roles as Home Minister and later as Deputy Prime Minister in the cabinet of Shri Atal Bihari Vajpayee from 1999 to 2004.
Earlier this year, President Droupadi Murmu honoured Advani with the Bharat Ratna, India’s highest civilian award, acknowledging his vast contributions to Indian politics. The award ceremony, attended by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, and other senior leaders, took place at Advani’s residence due to his declining health.
Advani’s hospitalization has drawn attention from political circles and the public alike, underscoring concerns for his health. Despite the lack of detailed information about his condition, there is a collective hope for his speedy recovery.
The BJP veteran’s enduring legacy and contributions to the Indian political landscape continue to be celebrated, even as he faces health challenges in his advanced age. His resilience and dedication remain an inspiration to many, reflecting his unwavering commitment to public service and the nation.