Sonia Gandhi Visits Ailing Lalu Yadav in Delhi, Revisits UPA Legacy and Rs 1.45 Lakh Crore Aid to Bihar

New Delhi: Congress Parliamentary Party chairperson Sonia Gandhi met Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) chief and former Bihar Chief Minister Lalu Prasad Yadav in New Delhi on Monday, enquiring about his health and wishing him a speedy recovery. Sonia Gandhi visited the official residence of Rajya Sabha MP Misa Bharti, where Lalu is currently staying, and spent time with the veteran leader and his family.

The meeting also turned nostalgic as the two leaders revisited their political association during the United Progressive Alliance (UPA) government's tenure. Sharing details of the interaction on X, Lalu Prasad Yadav said Sonia Gandhi had visited him to enquire about his health and that their conversation brought back memories of their years working together in government.

Recalling the UPA government's initiatives, Lalu highlighted the welfare-oriented policies introduced under former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh's leadership. He said the government had worked towards the interests of young people, farmers, soldiers and ordinary citizens through transparent and public-centric programmes. He specifically mentioned landmark legislations such as the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA), the Right to Education (RTE) Act and the Right to Information (RTI) Act, describing them as important measures that empowered citizens.

Lalu also underlined the financial support extended to Bihar during the UPA regime, stating that the state received contributions exceeding Rs 1.45 lakh crore for its development under Manmohan Singh's leadership. His remarks reflected on what he described as the UPA government's commitment to inclusive development and public welfare.

During the meeting, Sonia Gandhi was briefed about Lalu's health by Misa Bharti and other family members. They informed her that his condition was stable and that he was showing signs of improvement under continuous medical supervision. Lalu has been dealing with health complications for some time and is currently receiving treatment at the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) in Delhi. Following medical advice, he has remained in the national capital to rest and recover.

Sonia Gandhi wished the RJD chief a speedy recovery, while the two leaders held an extended conversation. The meeting reportedly remained warm and cordial, with Misa Bharti and her family welcoming the Congress leader. Beyond the health-related visit, the interaction also highlighted the longstanding political association and personal ties between the two families, who have shared a close relationship through several phases of national politics.

Lalu's health has come under medical attention on multiple occasions. In July this year, he was admitted to Patna's Indira Gandhi Institute of Medical Sciences (IGIMS) after fluctuations in his blood pressure and changes in his ECG readings. Following his initial treatment, doctors advised that he be taken to Delhi AIIMS for further medical consultation.

Earlier, in 2025, Lalu underwent surgery at AIIMS Delhi after wounds on his hand and back failed to heal. Doctors reportedly said his diabetes was contributing to the delayed healing process. He underwent the procedure on April 3 and was shifted from the intensive care unit to a regular hospital ward on April 5.

Sonia Gandhi's visit comes as Lalu continues his recovery in Delhi, bringing the two veteran leaders together once again and reviving memories of their partnership during the UPA years.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Purna Singh

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Purna Singh Yadav is an experienced journalist specializing in politics and general reporting. With over 3 years of writing expertise in political as well as general reporting. Purna has completed her post-graduation from Amity University with specialization in public relations and advertising. When she is not immersed in writing, she can be found spending time watching movies. With three years of experience as a frontline journalist, she has honed her craft in various genres, including entertainment, crime, and education. Purna's diverse family history and embrace of cultures as well as good communication skills have enriched her writing with unique perspectives.

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