Cabinet Minister Raghavji Patel hospitalized after brain hemorrhage

Gujarat Agriculture Minister Raghavji Patel has suffered a brain stroke, following which he was taken to a private hospital in Rajkot, where his situation was stable, medics said on Sunday.

Introduction

Raghavji Patel, a 65-year-old cabinet minister in the Bhupendra Patel-led state government, has been hospitalized after suffering from a brain haemorrhage. 

He holds portfolios for animal husbandry, fisheries, rural housing, and rural development departments in the state.

Medical Emergency

The incident occurred around 10:30 pm on Saturday in Jamnagar, where Patel experienced haemorrhage in the right side of his brain. 

He received primary treatment at a local hospital before being referred to Rajkot’s Synergy Hospital, where he was admitted around 4 am on Sunday. 

Dr. Sanjay Tilala, a neurosurgeon at the hospital, confirmed Patel’s condition and stated that he is currently under treatment in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU), with his condition reported as stable.

Political Background

Raghavji Patel represents the Jamnagar (Rural) assembly constituency and has a significant political history. He previously belonged to the Congress party but switched allegiance to the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in September 2017, just before the assembly elections of that year.

Controversial Voting History

In August 2017, Patel made headlines when, as a Congress MLA, he voted against veteran Congress leader Ahmed Patel during the Rajya Sabha poll, despite belonging to the same party. Ahmed Patel emerged victorious despite the unexpected challenge.

Electoral Journey

Patel contested as the BJP candidate in the 2017 assembly election but was defeated by Congress’ Vallabh Dharaviya. 

However, he later won the 2019 bypoll that arose due to Dharaviya’s resignation. Patel continued his political journey by securing re-election from the same seat in the 2022 state assembly elections.

Conclusion

The hospitalization of Raghavji Patel due to a brain haemorrhage has not only raised concerns about his health but also highlighted his eventful political career. 

As he receives treatment and his condition remains stable, his absence from political activities will be felt, especially given his key ministerial responsibilities. 

The incident serves as a reminder of the delicate balance between personal health and public service in the realm of politics.