In a serious health scare, Haryana's top bureaucrat, Chief Secretary Anurag Rastogi, was rushed to hospital after suffering a cardiac arrest. The senior Indian Administrative Service (IAS) officer is currently receiving critical care in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) of a private hospital in Mohali.
Sudden Health Crisis and Emergency Response
The incident occurred on the night of Thursday, January 9, 2026. Anurag Rastogi suddenly fell ill and complained of severe chest pain, prompting an immediate medical emergency. He was swiftly taken to Fortis Hospital located in Mohali for urgent treatment.
Given the critical nature of his condition, the medical team at Fortis decided to perform surgery. The procedure was conducted under the expert supervision of renowned cardiac surgeon, Dr. P S Mahant. The surgery was aimed at addressing the complications arising from the cardiac arrest.
Current Condition and Expected Recovery
Post-surgery, the Chief Secretary's condition required close monitoring. He has been placed in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) at Fortis Hospital, Mohali, where a team of specialists is overseeing his recovery. Medical sources indicate that his road to recovery will be lengthy.
It is expected that Anurag Rastogi will require complete bed rest for at least a couple of months to recuperate fully from this major health event. This period of convalescence will keep him away from his official duties at a crucial time.
A Distinguished Career and Extended Tenure
Anurag Rastogi, a 1990-batch IAS officer, has held several pivotal roles in the Haryana government. Before ascending to the state's highest bureaucratic position as Chief Secretary, he served in key financial roles. His previous assignments include serving as the Financial Commissioner (Revenue) and the Additional Chief Secretary (Finance).
His tenure as Chief Secretary was originally set to conclude on June 30, 2025. However, based on a recommendation from the Haryana state government, the Central government granted him a one-year extension last year. This extension underscores the trust and value placed in his administrative experience and leadership.
The health of the Chief Secretary is being closely watched by political and bureaucratic circles in Haryana, as his absence creates a significant vacancy at the helm of the state's administration during his recovery period.
