Maharashtra Deputy CM Eknath Shinde Hospitalised with Viral Fever, Condition Stable
Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde was admitted to Jupiter Hospital in Thane on Friday after developing viral fever and exhaustion, hospital sources said. His condition is reported to be stable and he is under medical observation.
Shinde’s health declined amid a demanding schedule that included continuous political engagements and frequent travel over the past several days. Despite feeling unwell during the ongoing Maharashtra legislature session on Friday, he continued with his official duties before his condition worsened, prompting his admission to the hospital.
Sources at the hospital stated that Shinde is receiving treatment for viral fever and exhaustion, and there is no cause for serious concern. He is expected to be discharged once he recovers fully.
His hospitalisation comes after a period of heightened political activity. Shinde played a key role in the Shiv Sena’s recent outreach efforts, internally referred to as “Operation Tiger,” which saw six Members of Parliament from the Uddhav Thackeray-led Shiv Sena faction and Mumbai MLC Sachin Ahir join Shinde’s camp. The developments involved multiple trips to New Delhi and sustained political coordination, contributing to his exhaustion.
Shinde’s illness also forced changes to a scheduled party event in Thane. Shubhangi Patil, deputy leader in the Uddhav Thackeray-led Shiv Sena faction and a prominent leader from Dhule, was slated to formally join Shinde’s Shiv Sena on Friday evening at Gangubai Shinde Hall. The induction ceremony was postponed following Shinde’s hospitalisation and was eventually held late at night. In his absence, his son and Lok Sabha MP Dr Shrikant Shinde welcomed Patil into the party in the presence of senior Shiv Sena leaders.
