J Jayalalithaa critical, party says she is showing signs of response

Earlier in the evening, high drama and chaos erupted outside the Apollo Hospitals over a rumour that Jayalalaithaa has passed away.

The medical facility of the hospital clarified that  the condition of the Tamil Nadu Chief Minister remains critical as she is still on life support system.

Jayalalaithaa's AIADMK supporters, who assembled outside the hospital, allegedly created chaos after rumours started doing the rounds that the southern leader has passed away.

The supporters reportedly attempted to break barricades in front of the hospital. Heavy police deployment has been made.

Reports said the flag in the AIADMK office was half mast for a while but later it was again fluttering.

A party worker said: "She is not my leader. She is my god, my mother. There will be miracle."

The hospital said doctors from Apollo and AIIMS are continuing to provide all life saving measures.

"Our team of expert doctors continue to closely monitor and treat the Honourable Chief Minister. However her condition remains critical," the hospital tweeted.

It said: "A large team of doctors from Apollo and AIIMS continue to provide all life saving measures. #GodblessAmma."

Jayalalithaa, who has been in Apollo Hospital since Sept 22, suffered a cardiac arrest on Sunday evening and was put on an extracorporeal membrane heart assist device, a life support system that aids heart and lung functioning.

Her supporters have assembled in front of the hospital to pray for the leader's recovery.