Mumbai: Veteran politician and Nationalist Congress Party (NCP-SP) chief Sharad Pawar was admitted to Ruby Hall Clinic in Pune on Monday after experiencing chest congestion and a persistent cough, prompting concern among supporters and political circles.
The 85-year-old leader, accompanied by his wife Pratibha Pawar; daughter and Baramati MP Supriya Sule; son-in-law Sadanand Sule; and grandnephew Rohit Pawar, reached the hospital around 4 pm from his residence in Baramati. Doctors conducted preliminary examinations, including a CT scan, which confirmed chest congestion and infection. He was admitted to a private room, with no need for ICU care, oxygen support, or ventilator assistance.
In an update shared on social media, Supriya Sule reassured well-wishers: “Baba has developed chest congestion and will need a five-day course of antibiotics. Fortunately, all other vital parameters are normal.” She expressed gratitude to the medical team and those who offered prayers, adding that his health has shown improvement since admission.
Party sources noted he had been dealing with a throat infection, cough, and mild breathing discomfort, possibly linked to recent exertion.
Doctors described his condition as stable, with heart rate and oxygen levels normal, though his respiratory rate was slightly elevated. The family requested supporters to avoid gathering at the hospital to prevent inconvenience.
Pawar, a seasoned statesman and oral cancer survivor, remains under observation. Supriya indicated he would continue antibiotics for the next four to five days, with expectations of steady recovery.
The news has drawn messages of support from across the political spectrum, underscoring Pawar’s enduring influence in Maharashtra and national politics.