BJP stalwart L.K. Advani admitted to Delhi hospital; Union Health Minister Nadda pays visit

Veteran Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader and former Deputy Prime Minister Lal Krishna Advani was admitted to Indraprastha Apollo Hospital in Jasola Vihar, Delhi, at around 7.30 p.m. on Friday with a chest infection and pulmonary issues. The 98-year-old statesman was admitted to the hospital's pulmonary department, where a team of doctors is keeping him under close observation while medical tests are conducted. Medical officials confirmed that his condition remains stable, with a formal health bulletin expected shortly.

Condition remains stable under medical care

This latest hospitalisation follows previous health complications the veteran leader faced earlier in the year. In May, Advani was admitted to Apollo Hospital due to age-related complications and spent a few days under medical care before being discharged. Prior to that, in December 2024, he was treated in the intensive care unit (ICU) under the supervision of a neurologist. Hospital reports from 17 December 2024 noted that he showed gradual improvement and was moved out of the ICU after his condition stabilised.

Political leaders visit and offer prayers

On Saturday morning, Union Health and Family Welfare Minister JP Nadda visited Apollo Hospital to meet attending doctors and inquire directly about Advani's health. Support and good wishes have also come from across political party lines during the festive period.

Samajwadi Party MP Awadhesh Prasad offered prayers for his recovery, stating:

"I pray to God and Goddess Durga during this month of Navratri for the improvement of LK Advani's health. I pray that he recovers, returns from the hospital, and continues to serve the nation for many more days."

BJP stalwart

Born on 8 November 1927 in Karachi (in present-day Pakistan), Advani played a vital role in building the BJP into a major national political organisation. Over his long political career, he served as party president on multiple occasions, strengthening its organisational foundation across India. His 1990 nationwide Ram Rath Yatra became a defining turning point in Indian politics, expanding the party's reach significantly.

Mr Advani served as India's Deputy Prime Minister from 2002 to 2004 under former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee and held key cabinet portfolios, including the Ministry of Home Affairs. Honouring his enduring contributions to public life, he was awarded the Padma Vibhushan in 2015 and conferred India's highest civilian award, the Bharat Ratna, in 2024.