Gujarat CM Vijay Rupani collapses on stage while addressing poll rally in Vadodara

Gujarat Chief Minister Vijay Rupani collapsed on the stage while giving an election speech in Vadodara on Sunday. Rupani was given first aid on the stage and was later seen coming down the stairs of the stage on his own, as per media reports.

However, he was flown back to Ahmedabad and taken to the UN Mehta hospital for a further check-up. As per an initial report, his blood pressure had dropped but his condition is said to be fine now.

BJP state president CR Paatil told reporters that Rupani had been running a fever for the past few days, but was campaigning despite requests from party leaders to rest.

In a video shared by the chief minister's Twitter handle for a live broadcast of the rally, Rupani was seen losing consciousness towards the end of the speech.

LIVE - વડોદરા ખાતે આગામી સ્થાનિક સ્વરાજ્યની ચૂંટણી અંતર્ગત આયોજિત જાહેરસભા#ગુજરાત_મક્કમ_ભાજપ_અડીખમ https://t.co/i7uZZhLLim

— Vijay Rupani (@vijayrupanibjp) February 14, 2021

The incident happened as Rupani was addressing a public gathering in the Mahesananagar, Nizampura area of Vadodara while campaigning for BJP candidates in the February 21 polls to six Municipal Corporations.

This was Rupani's third political rally during the day in Vadodara.

On learning of this incident, Prime Minister Narendra Modi had a telephonic conversation with the CM to inquire about his health. The PM advised him to be careful and take a rest.

A statement by the state BJP media convener advised all not to pay attention to any rumours on Rupani's health. "CM's health is good now. It was low blood pressure issue, possibly due to tiredness and stress linked to hectic election-related programmes. After treatment given by doctor, his health is fine now."

Elections to six municipal corporations including Vadodara will be held on February 21 while those for municipalities, districts and taluka panchayats will be held on February 28.

(With agency inputs)