In a significant development in Maharashtra’s political landscape, Shiv Sena (UBT) leader and Rajya Sabha MP Sanjay Raut has announced a temporary two-month withdrawal from public life to address pressing health issues. The announcement marks a pause for one of the most vocal and fiery critics of the central government.
The news, confirmed by Raut’s office, has created a noticeable silence in the daily political discourse, which the 62-year-old leader has long dominated with his daily press briefings and sharp commentary.
Prioritizing Health: Angioplasty Scheduled
According to an official statement, Raut is scheduled to undergo an angioplasty, which will require a significant period of rest and recovery. For months, the indefatigable leader has been at the forefront of his party’s political battles, often against his doctors’ advice.
“For the past few months, despite health warnings, I have been working continuously for my party and the people,” Raut’s statement read. “The doctors have now strictly advised me to prioritise my health. I will be undergoing a medical procedure and will need complete rest for about two months. I am a fighter, and I will be back, fitter and stronger, to fight for Maharashtra.”
Raut’s temporary absence creates a strategic vacuum for the Sena (UBT) and the broader Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) alliance, which relies on his aggressive communication, especially with crucial state elections approaching.
A Surprising Gesture: PM Modi’s Message of Support
What captured national attention, however, was the unexpected and poignant reaction from his staunchest political adversary, Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
In a rare moment of political grace that transcended party lines, PM Modi took to X (formerly Twitter) to wish Raut a speedy recovery. His message stood in stark contrast to the often-bitter political exchanges between the two.
“Praying for the speedy recovery and good health of Shri Sanjay Raut Ji,” the Prime Minister posted. “In politics, we may have our differences, but our shared humanity and well-being must always come first. Hope to see him back in public life, hale and hearty, soon.”
This gesture from PM Modi was widely interpreted as a mark of statesmanship, offering a brief respite from relentless political acrimony.
Reactions Pour In From Across Party Lines
The sentiment of goodwill was echoed across the political spectrum. Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde and Deputy CM Devendra Fadnavis, both frequent targets of Raut’s criticism, also extended their well-wishes. MVA allies, including NCP (SP) chief Sharad Pawar and senior Congress leaders, expressed their concern and wished him a swift return to the political arena.
Raut’s health has been a recurring concern. He previously underwent an angioplasty in 2019 and has faced health complications since, exacerbated by a demanding schedule that included extensive campaigning and a high-profile arrest.
As the Sena’s chief strategist and editor of the party mouthpiece ‘Saamana’ prepares for his medical procedure, the political theatre of Maharashtra will miss its most dramatic protagonist. For now, political swords are sheathed as prayers for good health take precedence.
