Sharad Pawar, the 85-year-old president of NCP (SP) and Rajya Sabha member, was rushed to Ruby Hall Clinic in Pune on Monday evening after complaining of chest congestion, persistent cough, and breathing discomfort.
The veteran politician, who had been at his residence in Baramati, arrived at the hospital around 4 pm accompanied by his wife Pratibha Pawar, daughter and Lok Sabha MP Supriya Sule, son-in-law Sadanand Sule, and grandnephew Rohit Pawar.
Doctors immediately conducted preliminary examinations, including a CT scan, which revealed an infection in his chest. His vital parameters, such as oxygen levels, heart rate, and blood pressure, were reported as normal, easing immediate worries among supporters.
The hospital emphasized that Pawar is in a general ward, not ICU, and is receiving a five-day course of antibiotics as part of his treatment plan. Fatigue from recent travels and engagements was cited as a contributing factor to his condition.
Treating physicians at Ruby Hall Clinic, including Dr. Abhijeet Lodha and Dr. Parvez Grant, have consistently described Pawar's condition as stable.
Dr. Lodha noted that while Pawar's respiratory rate was slightly elevated upon admission, all other indicators are within normal limits, and he is responding well to treatment.
"His vital parameters are within normal limits, and his overall clinical condition is stable and recovering well. The mild discomfort noted at the time of admission has improved with ongoing medical management," said Dr. Simon Grant, physician and trustee at the hospital.
The medical team plans to keep him under observation for at least a day, possibly longer, as a precaution, with further decisions based on test reports. Hospital authorities have urged well-wishers and NCP workers not to gather outside to avoid disrupting care.
Pawar, an oral cancer survivor, has faced age-related health challenges before but remains active in politics despite them. His latest hospitalization comes shortly after the tragic loss of his nephew and former deputy CM Ajit Pawar in an air crash last month.
News of Pawar's admission quickly drew attention from across the political spectrum, highlighting his stature in Indian politics.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi personally called to check on his health, a gesture that underscores the respect Pawar commands even among rivals. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh also reached out via telephone.
Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Sunetra Pawar, wife of the late Ajit Pawar, visited the hospital along with her son Parth to inquire about his well-being.
Supriya Sule took to social media to update followers, expressing gratitude for the support and assuring everyone of her father's steady recovery.
Pawar's enduring influence in Maharashtra politics, built over decades as a former chief minister and Union minister, ensures such events resonate widely, prompting prayers and messages from party workers and the public alike.
In summary, Sharad Pawar was hospitalized for chest congestion but is stable, undergoing antibiotics and observation at Ruby Hall Clinic, with positive updates from doctors and warm support from political figures. His recovery appears on track, allowing focus to shift back to his political engagements soon.
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