P Chidambaram Collapses Due to Heat in Ahmedabad: All You Need to Know

Senior Congress leader and former Union Finance Minister P Chidambaram fainted today while attending a solemn prayer ceremony at Sabarmati Ashram in Ahmedabad, Gujarat. The sudden incident left fellow Congress leaders and supporters alarmed, prompting immediate medical assistance.

In this detailed article, we bring you every important update on what happened at the Ashram, Chidambaram’s health status, reactions from family and party members, and the larger political context surrounding his visit.

What Exactly Happened at Sabarmati Ashram?

On the warm afternoon of April 8, 2025, during an ongoing Congress-led event at the iconic Sabarmati Ashram in Ahmedabad, 79-year-old P Chidambaram suddenly collapsed. As per visuals captured and shared widely on social media, multiple Congress workers were seen rushing to his side, helping him into an ambulance.

Eyewitnesses at the site reported that the former minister appeared dizzy and was sweating heavily before he fainted.

Why Did P Chidambaram Faint?

According to his son, Congress MP Karti Chidambaram, the senior leader fainted due to extreme heat and dehydration.

Shortly after being taken to a nearby hospital, doctors confirmed that Chidambaram's condition was stable and all tests returned normal results.

Later, P Chidambaram himself took to social media platform X (formerly Twitter) to reassure everyone. He wrote:

“Because of extreme heat, I suffered dehydration. All tests are normal. I am perfectly well now. Thank you, all ”

This statement has helped ease public concern about his health.

Heatwave in Ahmedabad: A Rising Concern

The temperature in Ahmedabad touched uncomfortable highs on Tuesday, with heatwave-like conditions reported in many parts of Gujarat. Doctors often warn elderly individuals to stay hydrated and avoid direct sun exposure, especially during mid-day hours.

Chidambaram's fainting incident has again highlighted the health risks posed by rising temperatures in Ahmedabad, a city known for its hot and dry summers.

What Was the Congress Event About?

P Chidambaram was in Ahmedabad as part of a large Congress delegation attending the party's extended Congress Working Committee (CWC) meeting. This meeting took place at the Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel National Memorial earlier in the day.

Later, the leaders visited the Sabarmati Ashram to pay homage and hold a prayer meeting.

The Congress event has been named “Nyaypath: Sankalp, Samarpan and Sangharsh” which translates to “Path of Justice: Resolve, Commitment, and Struggle”. It is aimed at inspiring party workers ahead of the upcoming elections and commemorating the 150th birth anniversary year of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel.

Congress’ Message from Ahmedabad

During the extended CWC meet, the party passed a resolution to honor the legacy of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, calling him the ‘Iron Man of India’. The resolution emphasized the need to combat rising communal tensions and religious polarisation in the country.

Over 1,700 Congress members are expected to join the main convention on April 9, making Ahmedabad a temporary political hotspot.

Who Is P Chidambaram?

For those unfamiliar, P Chidambaram is one of the most senior figures in Indian politics. A veteran Congress leader, he has held several important positions including Union Finance Minister and Union Home Minister in the past.

Known for his sharp intellect and calm demeanor, Chidambaram remains a key voice in the Congress party’s leadership.

Reactions Pour In

The video of Chidambaram being carried to the ambulance quickly went viral, leading to widespread concern. Political figures across party lines sent their well wishes.

His son, Karti Chidambaram, quickly responded online to confirm that his father was okay and being attended to by doctors.

Several Congress workers at the scene praised the swift response of local volunteers and the medical team who rushed in to provide support.

Safety Measures Going Forward

This incident has also brought attention to the need for better safety and medical arrangements during public gatherings in hot regions like Ahmedabad.

Given the rising temperature trends, experts recommend:

Staying hydrated with water and electrolyte drinks
Wearing light, breathable clothes
Avoiding outdoor events during peak sun hours
Ensuring the presence of on-site medical teams at large events

Conclusion

The incident involving P Chidambaram may have started with concern, but it ended with relief. Thanks to timely medical care and support from fellow Congress members, the senior leader is now stable and recovering well.

As Ahmedabad gears up for a high-profile political conclave, this serves as a timely reminder of how health and safety must remain top priorities, no matter the mission.

Stay tuned for more updates as the Congress convention continues in Ahmedabad, bringing together leaders from across the country in what promises to be a significant political moment.