New Delhi: Former President Pranab Mukherjee on Monday underwent a brain surgery at the Army's Research and Referral (R&R) hospital for removal of a clot hours after testing positive for coronavirus.
Mukherjee, who was unwell, was hospitalised on the advice of the doctors and had tested positive for COVID-19 prior to the surgery.
"Former President Pranab Mukherjee underwent a successful brain surgery for removal of a clot at the Army's R&R hospital," sources told PTI.
"He is critical and is on ventilator support," the sources also said.
Earlier in the day, Mukherjee, 84, said in a tweet, "On a visit to the hospital for a separate procedure, I have tested positive for COVID19 today."
"I request the people who came in contact with me in the last week, to please self isolate and get tested for COVID-19," Mukherjee, who was the president from 2012 to 2017, said.
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh visited the R&R Hospital and enquired about the former president's health. Singh was at the hospital for around 20 minutes.
Congress's chief spokesperson Randeep Surjewala, along with several of his party colleagues, wished Mukherjee, who was a Congress leader for years, a speedy recovery.
"We wish former President Pranab Mukherjee a speedy recovery from Covid," the Congress said on its official Twitter handle.
Abhijeet Mukherjee, Congress leader and the former president's son, tweeted, "I wish my father a speedy recovery! I appeal to all my countrymen to pray for his speedy recovery & good health."
Several leaders from across the political spectrum also wished Mukherjee an early recovery.
Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot tweeted, "I have come to know former President of India Sh. Pranab Mukherjee has tested positive for Covid-19...concerned about his health. Wish him a speedy recovery."
"Wishing Sri Pranab Mukherjee a speedy recovery. I am sure he will be out of this sooner than later," said Congress leader Mallikarjun Kharge.
Union minister Piyush Goyal also wished good health for Mukherjee and said he is confident that the former president will quickly recover from the virus.
Congress leader Abhishek Singhvi said, "Astonishing and matter of concern that former President Pranab Mukherjee tested positive for COVID per press reports. Very active, regular walker, wish him quick recovery and restful convalescence."
(With inputs from PTI and IANS)
