Former Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar suffered two fainting spells in quick succession and was rushed to AIIMS Delhi for emergency care. The incident, which unfolded in the capital’s bustling corridors, has sparked a flurry of media coverage, political commentary, and public concern about the health of a senior constitutional figure. This article examines the medical response at India’s premier tertiary hospital, the political reverberations of the episode, and how it fits into a broader pattern of health crises involving high‑ranking Indian officials.
Health scare and immediate response
According to eyewitnesses, Dhankhar first lost consciousness outside his residence in Delhi on 15 September 2024. Paramedics arrived within minutes, stabilised his vitals, and transported him to the nearest emergency unit. A second fainting episode occurred en route to the hospital, prompting a rapid escalation of care. AIIMS doctors immediately conducted a full clinical assessment, including cardiac monitoring, blood work, and neuro‑imaging, to rule out life‑threatening conditions.
AIIMS Delhi: treatment and protocols
AIIMS, recognised globally for its advanced critical‑care infrastructure, follows a tiered protocol for sudden collapses:
- Initial triage: Rapid assessment of airway, breathing, and circulation.
- Diagnostic cascade: ECG, blood glucose, complete blood count, and CT scan if indicated.
- Specialist referral: Cardiologists, neurologists, and intensive‑care physicians collaborate on a treatment plan.
The hospital’s press release confirmed that Dhankhar is under observation in the intensive care unit, receiving intravenous fluids and monitoring for any arrhythmic events. No invasive procedures have been reported as of today.
Political fallout and public sentiment
The episode has ignited a wave of commentary across political parties and social media platforms. Opposition leaders have called for transparency regarding the Vice President’s health, while supporters urge respect for privacy. Analysts suggest that any prolonged absence could affect the scheduling of the Rajya Sabha sessions, where the Vice President presides as the Chairperson. Public sentiment, gauged through trending hashtags, reflects a mix of concern, curiosity, and calls for a clear official statement.
Comparative look at past health incidents of Indian leaders
India’s political history includes several notable health scares involving top officials:
| Date | Leader | Incident | Outcome |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7 July 2014 | Prime Minister Narendra Modi | Severe dehydration during a marathon rally | Recovered within 24 hours, no lasting effects |
| 12 March 2019 | President Ram Nath Kovind | Minor heart arrhythmia detected during a routine check‑up | Managed with medication, continued duties |
| 15 September 2024 | Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar | Two fainting episodes, admitted to AIIMS | Under observation; prognosis pending |
| 13 January 2026 | Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar | Status update – stable, no surgical intervention required | Continues recovery in ICU |
These incidents underline the importance of robust medical preparedness for public officials, especially given the demanding nature of their roles.
In summary, Jagdeep Dhankhar’s sudden health crisis has highlighted AIIMS Delhi’s swift emergency response, stirred political debate about transparency, and added to a historical pattern of health challenges faced by India’s leaders. While the Vice President remains under close medical supervision, the episode serves as a reminder of the human vulnerability behind high‑profile offices and the critical need for clear communication to the public.
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