Jayalalithaa's health condition: US Consulate issues 'emergency message' for American citizens

Chennai: As Tamil Nadu CM Jayalalithaa's health condition remains critical after she suffered cardiac arrest on Sunday evening, the US Consulate in Chennai issued an "emergency message" for American citizens.

The US Consulate on Monday asked American citizens to review their personal security plans and remain aware of the local events.

"US citizens are reminded that even gatherings intended to be peaceful can turn confrontational and escalate into violence. You should avoid areas of demonstrations, and exercise caution if in the vicinity of any large gatherings, protests, or demonstrations," the Consulate said in a message on its official website without any reference to any particular development.

"Review your personal security plans; remain aware of your surroundings, including local events; and monitor local news stations for updates. Maintain a high level of vigilance and take appropriate steps to enhance your personal security," the message said.

Further, the Consulate General will operate with reduced staffing on Monday, it announced, adding, it has "temporarily suspended appointments for routine services to US citizens and visa applicants."

"Applicants will be informed by email. The Consulate will provide updates when routine services are restored," it added.

Jayalalithaa suffered a cardiac arrest on Sunday evening, prompting scores of party workers to throng Apollo Hospital where she has been admitted. 

Jayalalithaa was hospitalised on September 22 after she complained of fever and dehydration. 

Apollo Hospitals, in a tweet late last night, said doctors were closely monitoring Jayalalithaa's condition and trying their "very best".

"Our doctors are closely monitoring Hon'ble CM's condition and they are trying their very best," Sangita Reddy, Joint Managing Director of Apollo Hospitals, tweeted.

68-year-old Jayalalithaa is "critical", she said in an earlier tweet, adding that the AIADMK chief was on extracorporeal membrane heart assist device and being treated by a team of expert doctors and critical care specialists.

Security has been beefed up across the state.