Veteran BJP leader LK Advani, 96, has been admitted to Apollo Hospital in Delhi. Currently stable and under observation, his health is being closely monitored by senior neurologist Dr. Vinit Suri.
Lal Krishna Advani, a prominent figure in Indian politics and a stalwart of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), was admitted to New Delhi’s Apollo Hospital on Wednesday night (July 3). The 96-year-old Bharat Ratna awardee had earlier been discharged from the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) after an overnight stay. According to hospital sources, LK Advani is currently stable and under observation. Dr. Vinit Suri, a senior consultant in Neurology, is overseeing his care. He was admitted around 9 pm (IST).
A Life Dedicated to Politics
Early Life and Education
Lal Krishna Advani was born on November 8, 1927, in Karachi, which is now part of Pakistan. His early life was marked by the turmoil of the Partition of British India in 1947. Advani’s family migrated to India during this time, an experience that profoundly influenced his political outlook and commitment to the nation.
Advani’s education began in Karachi, where he attended St. Patrick’s High School. After moving to India, he continued his studies at Government Law College in Mumbai. His involvement with the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) began in 1941 when he was just 14 years old, marking the start of a lifelong association with the organization that would shape his political career.
Rise in Politics
In 1951, four years after India gained independence, LK Advani joined the Bharatiya Jana Sangh, the political precursor to the BJP. His early political career was characterized by his dedication to the party’s ideology and his organizational skills. Advani quickly rose through the ranks, demonstrating his ability to mobilize support and articulate the party’s vision.
By 1970, LK Advani had made his mark on national politics by becoming a member of the Rajya Sabha, the upper house of India’s Parliament. His leadership qualities were recognized when he was appointed the Leader of the House in 1977 during the Janata Party government, a coalition that included the Jana Sangh.
Leadership and Influence
LK Advani’s influence within the BJP grew significantly after he co-founded the party with Atal Bihari Vajpayee in 1980. The BJP aimed to provide a strong alternative to the dominant Congress party, advocating for a Hindu nationalist agenda. Under LK Advani’s leadership, the BJP expanded its base and became a formidable force in Indian politics.
One of LK Advani’s most notable contributions to the BJP’s rise was his role in the Ram Janmabhoomi movement. In 1990, LK Advani launched a rath yatra (chariot procession) from Somnath in Gujarat to Ayodhya in Uttar Pradesh. This journey aimed to mobilize support for the construction of a Ram Temple at the site believed to be the birthplace of the Hindu deity Ram. The rath yatra significantly boosted the BJP’s popularity and set the stage for the party’s future electoral successes.
Deputy Prime Minister and Beyond
LK Advani’s political career reached its zenith when he served as India’s Deputy Prime Minister from 1998 to 2004 under Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee. During this period, he was also the Minister of Home Affairs, overseeing crucial aspects of India’s internal security and governance. His tenure was marked by efforts to strengthen national security and combat terrorism.
In addition to his role as Deputy Prime Minister, LK Advani continued to be a guiding force within the BJP. He represented Gujarat’s Gandhinagar Lok Sabha seat for six terms, contributing to policy-making and shaping the party’s strategies.
Legacy and Impact
LK Advani’s legacy is deeply intertwined with the BJP’s evolution and growth. His strategic vision, organizational prowess, and commitment to the party’s ideology have left an indelible mark on Indian politics. The Ram Janmabhoomi movement, which culminated in the construction of the Ram Temple in Ayodhya in 2024, is one of the most significant milestones of his political career.
Despite his advanced age, LK Advani’s influence within the BJP remains significant. He is respected as a patriarch of the party and a mentor to many of its leaders. His contributions to Indian politics and the BJP’s rise to prominence are widely acknowledged and celebrated.
Current Health Concerns
The recent news of LK Advani admitted to Apollo Hospital has drawn attention to his health. At 96, Advani’s advanced age makes him vulnerable to various health issues. However, his resilience and the quality of medical care he is receiving provide hope for his recovery.
Hospital sources have indicated that LK Advani is stable and under observation. Dr. Vinit Suri, a senior consultant in Neurology at Apollo Hospital, is closely monitoring his condition. The medical team is taking all necessary precautions to ensure his well-being.
LK Advani’s admission to Apollo Hospital has brought into focus the life and contributions of one of India’s most influential political leaders. His journey from a young RSS volunteer to the Deputy Prime Minister of India is a testament to his dedication, resilience, and vision. As he remains under medical observation, the nation reflects on his legacy and the impact he has had on Indian politics. LK Advani’s life story continues to inspire many, highlighting the importance of commitment and perseverance in the pursuit of one’s ideals.
(With inputs from agencies)
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