Former Indian Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee passed away today at the age of 93. Leaders from across the political spectrum mourned the loss of India’s former prime minister.
The 93-year-old was admitted on June 11 due to kidney tract infection, chest congestion, and low urine output. His condition has been declining rapidly. He had suffered a stroke in 2009 that weakened his cognitive abilities. Subsequently, he developed dementia.
Last evening, Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited AIIMS to meet the ailing former political leader. Just hours after the PM’s visit, the medical institute released the statement declaring that his condition is critical.
Vajpayee was among India’s most popular politicians and a founding leader of the ruling Hindu nationalist Bharatiya Janata Party. He retired from active politics in 2005.
Vajpayee was twice elected prime minister, first for 13 days in 1996 and then from 1998 to 2004.