Mallikarjun Kharge hospitalised in Bengaluru for pacemaker surgery

Bengaluru: Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge was admitted to a private hospital in Bengaluru on Tuesday for a planned pacemaker implantation, his son and Karnataka Minister Priyank Kharge confirmed on Wednesday.

Priyank Kharge, who holds the Rural Development, Panchayat Raj, and IT/BT portfolios in Karnataka, said his father was advised to undergo the procedure following fever, fatigue, and leg pain. Kharge is currently receiving treatment at MS Ramaiah Hospital in Bengaluru.

“Mallikarjun Kharge has been advised to undergo a pacemaker implantation and has been admitted to the hospital for the planned procedure. He is stable and recovering well. We are deeply grateful for your concern and good wishes," Priyank Kharge said.

Chief Minister Siddaramaiah visited Kharge at the hospital on Wednesday, inquiring about his health and extending his wishes for a speedy recovery. Speaking to the media after the visit, the CM said that Kharge had come for a routine check-up due to minor uneasiness.

“He is doing well and is expected to be discharged tomorrow,” Siddaramaiah added, noting that Kharge spoke well with him and is in normal health. Hospital sources confirmed that he remains under observation, is stable, and is likely to be discharged soon.

Kharge is scheduled to visit Nagaland on October 7 to address a rally at Naga Solidarity Park.

Last September, Kharge was hospitalised in Kathua, Jammu and Kashmir, after his health deteriorated during a rally. During his speech, he experienced shortness of breath and nearly fainted, but was assisted by a Congress worker. Following the incident, he reportedly remarked that he intends to stay alive until Prime Minister Modi is removed from office.

Interestingly, Prime Minister Modi called Kharge during his hospital stay to inquire about his health and convey his wishes for a speedy recovery.

With IANS inputs