LK Advani hospitalized at Delhi’s Apollo Hospital.
The 96-year-old leader, often referred to as one of the architects of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), has been under medical observation following his recent health concerns. Hospital authorities confirmed his admission and stated that a team of doctors is closely monitoring his condition. While details about his ailment have not been officially disclosed, sources suggest that it is a routine check-up and age-related health monitoring.
Advani, who served as India’s Deputy Prime Minister from 2002 to 2004, has played a pivotal role in shaping the BJP into a dominant political force. Leaders across the political spectrum have expressed their wishes for his speedy recovery.
Veteran BJP leader Lal Krishna Advani, a towering figure in Indian politics, has been admitted to Apollo Hospital in New Delhi. Vinit Suri, a senior consultant in the neurology department, as reported by news agency PTI.
Advani was brought to the hospital two days ago and remains under observation. While the exact reason for his latest hospitalization has not been disclosed, it is not the first time he has required medical attention this year, having been admitted to the same facility earlier. Leaders across the political spectrum and his followers have expressed concern for his health, wishing him a speedy recovery.
Advani’s Political Journey
He became a member of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) at just 14 years old, embracing the ideology that would later define much of his career.
In 1951, Advani joined the Bharatiya Jana Sangh (BJS), the precursor to the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), which was founded by Syama Prasad Mookerjee. As a dedicated and hardworking party member, he quickly rose through the ranks. By 1970, Advani became a member of the Rajya Sabha, marking his entry into national politics. His leadership skills were recognized when he was elected president of the Bharatiya Jana Sangh in 1972.
Role During the Emergency
The Emergency period from 1975 to 1977 was a defining chapter in Advani’s political career. During this time, he, along with his close associate Atal Bihari Vajpayee, was arrested by the then Congress-led government under Indira Gandhi. The crackdown on political opposition during the Emergency cemented Advani’s reputation as a staunch defender of democracy and civil liberties.
Following the Emergency, the Bharatiya Jana Sangh merged with other parties to form the Janata Party, which went on to defeat Indira Gandhi in the 1977 general elections.
Founding of the BJP
In 1980, the Janata Party fragmented, leading to the formation of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). Under his leadership, the BJP grew from a fledgling political entity to one of India’s most powerful political forces.
Advani’s tenure as BJP president from 1986 to 1991 was marked by the party’s growing influence, largely driven by his advocacy of Hindutva and the Ram Janmabhoomi movement. His 1990 Rath Yatra, aimed at mobilizing support for the construction of a Ram temple in Ayodhya, was a turning point in Indian politics, catapulting the BJP into national prominence.
Deputy Prime Minister and Legacy
During this period, he was also the Home Minister, handling crucial issues of national security and governance. Known for his disciplined approach and organizational skills, Advani played a pivotal role in strengthening the BJP’s infrastructure and cadre base.
Though he stepped back from active politics in recent years, Advani remains a revered figure within the BJP. His contributions to Indian politics have earned him respect across party lines, and he is often referred to as the architect of the BJP’s rise.
Current Concerns
As one of the most senior and respected leaders in Indian politics, Advani’s hospitalization has drawn attention and concern nationwide. While his condition is stable, his age and health have been matters of public interest. The BJP veteran continues to inspire generations of politicians and citizens alike, symbolizing an era of transformation in India’s political landscape.