Maharashtra deputy CM Eknath Shinde was rushed to hospital on Friday in Thane due to viral fever and exhaustion. His condition is now said to be stable.Shinde's health deteriorated amid an intense work schedule that included continuous political engagements and frequent travel over the past several days.

Despite feeling unwell during the ongoing Maharashtra legislature session on Friday, he continued with his official responsibilities before his condition worsened, prompting his admission to Jupiter Hospital in Thane.Sources said Shinde is under medical observation and receiving treatment, adding that there is no cause for serious concern.His hospitalisation comes after a period of heightened political activity, with Shinde playing a key role in the Shiv Sena's recent outreach efforts.

The operation, internally dubbed "Operation Tiger," saw six MPs from the Uddhav Thackeray-led Shiv Sena faction and Mumbai MLC Sachin Ahir join Shinde's camp. The developments reportedly involved multiple trips to New Delhi and sustained political coordination, contributing to his exhaustion.Shinde's illness also forced changes to a scheduled party event in Thane, reported IANS. Shubhangi Patil, deputy leader in the Uddhav Thackeray-led Shiv Sena faction and a prominent leader from Dhule, was slated to formally join Shinde's Shiv Sena on Friday evening at Gangubai Shinde Hall.

The induction ceremony was postponed following Shinde's hospitalisation and was eventually held late at night. In his absence, his son and Lok Sabha MP Dr Shrikant Shinde welcomed Patil into the party in the presence of senior Shiv Sena leaders.