New Delhi: Former Deputy Prime Minister and veteran Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader, Bharat Ratna Lal Krishna Advani, was once again taken to Apollo Hospital on Tuesday due to old age-related ailments. The 96-year-old leader’s condition is currently stable, according to hospital sources.
A Brief History of Advani’s Political Journey
Born in Karachi on November 8, 1927, Advani joined the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) at the age of 14. After migrating to India following Partition in 1947, he became a key figure in Indian politics. Here are some highlights from his illustrious career:
- Bharatiya Jana Sangh and Rajya Sabha: Advani joined the newly formed Bharatiya Jana Sangh in 1951. He entered the Rajya Sabha in 1970 and was elected as the party’s president two years later.
- Emergency and Janata Party Government: During the 1975 emergency, Advani and party colleague Atal Bihari Vajpayee were arrested. When the Janata Party government under Morarji Desai was formed in 1977, Advani served as the Information and Broadcasting Minister.
- Founding Member of BJP: In 1980, Advani played a pivotal role in the formation of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). His leadership during the Ram Janmabhoomi movement catapulted the BJP to national prominence in the 1990s.
- Deputy Prime Minister and Home Minister: In the Atal Bihari Vajpayee-led NDA government, Advani served as the Deputy Prime Minister and Home Minister.
- Prime Ministerial Candidate: Although named the BJP’s prime ministerial candidate in the 2009 general elections, the party did not secure victory.
Bharat Ratna and High Political Stature
Advani’s contributions to Indian politics are immense. As one of the founding members of the BJP, he has held crucial responsibilities in both the Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha. His unwavering commitment to public service and leadership during critical moments have earned him the Bharat Ratna, India’s highest civilian award.
Lal Krishna Advani remains an iconic figure, revered for his dedication and impact on Indian political history. We wish him a swift recovery during this challenging time.
