Kathrine Frich
An expert claims the leader refused Indian medical help out of fear.
When you run one of the most powerful nations on earth, every single movement is heavily scrutinized.
A minor stumble on the world stage can instantly set off global alarm bells.
Right now, a sudden schedule change has political observers scrambling for answers.
A sudden commotion
The unexpected drama took place in New Delhi during the latest BRICS Summit. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi was giving his introductory speech when a major distraction erupted near him.
Aides abruptly rushed to the side of Chinese President Xi Jinping. Seeing the strange commotion, Modi completely stopped his prepared remarks and asked, “Is it OK?”
Local news outlets reported that the Indian prime minister saw Xi “looking uncomfortable”. The Chinese president then skipped a planned gala dinner and left the international gathering early.
Rumors take flight
Because the health of Chinese leaders is a highly classified state secret, the sudden departure sparked massive speculation. Internet commentators and political critics quickly filled the silence with dramatic theories.
American author Gordon G. Chang suggested the truth was already out.
“Xi Jinping is not well. This time, China could not hide his condition,” Chang noted, according to the Daily Express.
China critic Jennifer Zeng cited a former communist official when she claimed the leader is facing cerebellar atrophy. She pointed out, “It is a difficult condition to deal with, because unlike problems with some other organs, the cerebellum cannot simply be replaced through a transplant.”
Rushed to hospital
Washington Times correspondent Bill Gertz wrote on X that public theories range from a minor illness to a severe stroke. He added that some wild claims even suggest rival armies might be mobilizing for a civil war.
Chinese political activist Xie Wanjun shared footage on social media that reportedly showed the 71 year old leader struggling up aircraft stairs.
“Before the BRICS summit even concluded, Xi Jinping ended his visit to India and returned to Beijing ahead of schedule,” Xie stated on X.
Xie claimed the leader refused Indian medical help out of fear. Instead, he was reportedly taken directly by military helicopter to a hospital in Beijing.
Tightening the grip
This health scare arrives just as Beijing heavily restricts travel for ordinary citizens. The government recently introduced sweeping new border rules.
Officials desperately want to stop people from taking industrial secrets abroad. The State Council claims the rules will “safeguard national sovereignty, security and development interests”.
Anyone caught breaking these strict new rules could face a travel ban lasting up to three years.
Sources: Daily Express, Washington Times, X
