Veteran BJP Leader LK Advani Hospitalized in Delhi; Condition Stable, Under Observation

Veteran Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader and former Deputy Prime Minister Lal Krishna Advani has been admitted to Apollo Hospital in New Delhi.

Hospital authorities have confirmed that the 96-year-old leader’s condition is stable, and he is currently under observation.

Dr. Vinit Suri, a senior consultant in the neurology department, is leading Advani’s care. The exact reason for his admission has not been disclosed, though this marks his second hospitalization at the facility this year.

Recurring Health Concerns

Advani was admitted to Apollo Hospital two days ago. Earlier in July, he was treated at the same facility for health concerns related to aging.

Additionally, he had previously been hospitalized at the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) for similar issues.

While his current condition is stable, these recurrent health challenges are a reminder of his advancing age and the toll of a life dedicated to public service.

Early Life and Entry into Politics

Born on November 8, 1927, in Karachi (now in Pakistan), L.K. Advani began his journey in public service at the age of 14 when he joined the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS). After the Partition in 1947, he and his family migrated to India.

In 1951, Advani joined the Bharatiya Jana Sangh, a political party founded by Syama Prasad Mookerjee. His political career took off when he was elected to the Rajya Sabha in 1970.

Two years later, he became the president of the Bharatiya Jana Sangh, marking a significant milestone in his journey.

The Emergency Era and Aftermath

During the Emergency imposed by then Prime Minister Indira Gandhi from 1975 to 1977, Advani was arrested alongside his close associate, Atal Bihari Vajpayee.

This period of political upheaval tested his resolve and solidified his stature as a leader committed to democratic principles.

When the Janata Party came to power in 1977, Advani was appointed the Minister of Information and Broadcasting under the Morarji Desai-led government.

This role allowed him to advocate for press freedom and rebuild trust in democratic institutions.

The Formation of the BJP

In 1980, following the dissolution of the Bharatiya Jana Sangh, Advani played a key role in founding the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). His vision and leadership helped shape the BJP’s ideological foundation, rooted in Hindutva and nationalist principles.

Under his guidance, the BJP rose from obscurity, winning just two seats in the 1984 general elections, to becoming a formidable political force by the 1990s.

The Ram Janmabhoomi Movement

Advani’s leadership in the Ram Janmabhoomi movement was pivotal in transforming the BJP into a national powerhouse.

The movement, which sought to construct a Ram temple at Ayodhya, resonated with millions of Indians and brought the BJP significant political gains.

His Rath Yatra (chariot journey) in 1990 remains one of the most iconic events in Indian political history, mobilizing widespread support for the BJP and its ideology.

Key Roles in Government

Advani served as the Deputy Prime Minister and Home Minister in the Atal Bihari Vajpayee-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA) government from 1999 to 2004.

During this tenure, he contributed to policy-making and governance that bolstered India’s infrastructure and internal security.

In the 2009 general elections, Advani was the BJP’s prime ministerial candidate. Although the party did not secure victory, his candidacy reflected his status as one of the most respected leaders in Indian politics.

Recognition and Bharat Ratna

On March 30, 2024, Advani was honored with the Bharat Ratna, India’s highest civilian award, by President Droupadi Murmu.

This recognition was a testament to his decades-long dedication to public service and his pivotal role in shaping modern Indian politics.

Gradual Retreat from Active Politics

In recent years, Advani has stepped back from active political roles, allowing the next generation of leaders to take the helm. Despite this, his influence remains significant, and he continues to be a guiding figure in the BJP.

His legacy is one of resilience, dedication, and unwavering commitment to his beliefs.

A Leader Who Shaped Indian Politics

L.K. Advani’s political journey is a story of transformation—not just for himself but for the BJP and Indian politics as a whole.

From his early days in the RSS to his instrumental role in founding the BJP and leading it to prominence, his contributions have left an indelible mark.

While his health challenges signal the passage of time, Advani remains an enduring figure in India’s political landscape.