Former MIC deputy president S Subramaniam has been warded at the Pantai Medical Centre today to undergo brain surgeries.

His sister, Sarojini, said the veteran politician underwent his first surgery this morning. It is learnt that Subramaniam, 67, is currently undergoing the next surgery.

Sarojini said Subramaniam went to the Assunta Hospital in Petaling Jaya yesterday by himself, after encountering health problems.

He was transferred to the medical centre this morning.

Also seen at the hospital were former MIC president S Samy Vellu, Deputy Minister in the Prime Minister's Department S Devamany and Federal Territories and Urban Well-Being Deputy Minister M Saravanan.

Subramaniam is a former Segamat member of parliment from 1990 to 2004, and a former deputy minister.

Among the ministries he had served were housing and local government, domestic trade and consumer affairs and agriculture.

'We never quarreled'

Meanwhile, MIC president G Palanivel, who visited Subramaniam at the intensive care unit (ICU) about 6pm, expressed shock over his medical condition.

"He is still in the operating theatre and I'm sure nothing bad will happen, it will take time for him to recover... I met Subramaniam's wife and spoke to her...we pray for his good health.

"We (Subramaniam and Palanivel) never quarreled with one another and I believe the doctor is trying to stabilise his condition," he said.

Earlier, Samy Vellu spent about an hour visiting Subramaniam, a father of three, and his family at the hospital.

The former MIC president, who arrived at the medical centre at 2.15pm, was saddened over Subramaniam's medical condition.

He wished his former deputy a speedy recovery.

"He is a good man and we have been friends for 40 years," added Samy Vellu.

About 30 people, including family members, friends and MIC leaders, were waiting outside the ICU.

- Bernama