BJP MLA from Rajasthan royal family dies of swine flu

Rajput leaders blamed the govt for not acting promptly to treat her

BJP MLA from Mandalgarh in Rajasthan’s Bhilwara district, Kirti Kumari, on Monday died of swine flu at a private hospital in the city.

The 50-year-old MLA was undergoing treatment at Jaipur's Sawai Man Singh Hospital but was later shifted to Fortis Hospital on Sunday.

Medical Superintendent of Fortis Hospital, Dr. Shrikant Swami said, "She passed away at 7 AM on Monday due to Swine Flu.  Her condition had worsened." A medical team consisting of nearly 12 doctors was observing her health, according to the sources in hospital.

Rajasthan Chief Minister Vasundhara Raje took to Twitter to express her condolences. “I express grief over Kirti Kumari’s untimely death. Her death is a huge setback for me and the BJP family,” she tweeted. Kirti had defeated Congress candidate Vivek by a huge margin in the 2013 assembly election.

A number of Rajput community leaders said the Rajasthan government did not show promptness in ensuring treatment to the 50-year old minister. They also alleged that no senior politician visited Kirti Kumari while she was admitted to SMS Hospital.

In Rajasthan, Swine flu has claimed seven lives this year and according to experts, it has spread due to favourable climatic conditions. According to the health department, 15 people have died of Swine Flu in Rajasthan in August.

As per the report, 20 people have tested positive for swine flu in Jaipur. In August so far, 252 persons have already been tested positive for the disease. However, Kirti Kumari is the first political figure to die due to swine flu.

Kirti hailed from the royal Bijolia family of Rajasthan. She held various positions in committees of Rajasthan Assembly and within the organisation.

As the news of her demise spread, a pall of gloom descended on Mandalgarh and among party members.