Sonia Gandhi's Hospital Visit Sparks Speculation in Shimla

Sonia Gandhi's Visit to IGMC Raises Eyebrows

SHIMLA: Former Congress president Sonia Gandhi, currently enjoying a peaceful retreat in Himachal Pradesh, made a visit to the Indira Gandhi Medical College (IGMC) and Hospital on Saturday evening, stirring curiosity among political circles and the public.

Sources indicate that her hospital visit was for a routine checkup due to a sudden spike in blood pressure, rather than an emergency situation. Nevertheless, this brief visit led to heightened concern, prompting the Chief Minister to cut short his tour and senior state officials to rush to the hospital.

Clarification on Health Status

Sonia Gandhi, who has been residing at her daughter Priyanka Gandhi Vadra’s home in Chharabra since June 2, reportedly felt slightly unwell earlier that day. As a precaution, a team of doctors was dispatched to her residence in the morning. By 6:25 PM, she arrived at IGMC for a series of medical tests.

She walked unassisted from her vehicle to the radiology department using the lift in D Block, where she underwent precautionary diagnostic evaluations. Dr. Rahul Rao, Medical Superintendent of IGMC, confirmed, “She came for a routine check-up. All test results are normal.”

Government Officials Respond to Hospital Visit

Despite doctors assuring that there was no health scare, Sonia Gandhi’s visit led to a flurry of activity. Health Minister Dhani Ram Shandil, Chief Secretary Prabodh Saxena, and other senior officials arrived at IGMC promptly. Security measures were significantly increased across the hospital grounds.

“Her health is stable. It was purely a routine visit,” reiterated Minister Shandil, urging both the public and media to refrain from unnecessary speculation.

Chief Minister's Sudden Return

Adding to the speculation was Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu’s unexpected return to Shimla. He canceled his planned development tour of Una, where he was set to announce projects worth Rs 25.79 crore, and hurried back to the capital. This decision raised eyebrows among local residents who were looking forward to his visit.

While no official connection was made between Sukhu’s return and Sonia Gandhi’s hospital visit, the timing left many wondering.