RS MP Sanjay Raut takes a break from public life over health issues

Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Sanjay Raut, a close aide of Uddhav Thackeray and executive editor of Saamana. File pic/Atul Kamble

SHIV Sena (UBT) leader and Rajya Sabha Member of Parliament Sanjay Raut on Friday announced that he will be taking a temporary break from public engagements due to health concerns.

Sharing an update on X, Raut wrote, "Jai Maharashtra! You all have always believed in me and loved me, but now, suddenly, there have been some serious issues with my health. Treatment is underway, and I will come out of this soon. As per medical advice, I have been restricted from going out and being in crowds. It is unavoidable. I am sure I will recover well and come to see you in the new year. May your love and blessings remain."

Soon after his post, several political leaders, including PM Modi, extended their best wishes for his speedy recovery.

Party members of the Shiv Sena (UBT) expressed concern and said they are praying for his quick recovery.

Raut, a four-time MP, is known to be a close aide of Shiv Sena (UBT) chief Uddhav Thackeray and also serves as the executive editor of Saamana, the party's mouthpiece. A senior Shiv Sena (UBT) leader, requesting anonymity, said, "Sanjay Raut saheb is a fighter, and we are confident he will recover soon. He has been extensively travelling and working for the party, which may have led doctors to advise him to rest. He had undergone angioplasty several years ago, and doctors might have recommended rest as a precautionary measure." It may be noted that a few weeks ago, Raut had visited a private hospital in the eastern suburbs for a medical check-up. Sources said he has been diagnosed with the early stage of a serious ailment, though there has been no official confirmation from the hospital or his doctors.