Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Jayalalithaa who is fondly called as Amma by her followers had a cardiac arrest on Sunday evening in the Apollo hospital in Chennai where she has spent the last three months being treated for a prolonged lung infection. She was put on an Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation (ECMO) heart assist device that aids cardiac and respiratory functions.

"She is being treated and monitored by a team of experts, including cardiologists, pulmonologist and critical care specialists," said Dr Subbaiah Viswanathan of Apollo Hospital.

News of the health setback saw scores of wailing supporters gather outside the hospital. As per reports, nine units of riot police, each with about 100 members, are being prepped to flown into Tamil Nadu, if needed. Police across the state have been asked to be on high alert and the entire force has been asked to report to duty at 7 am. Schools have not been closed and exams will go on as scheduled, officials said.

President Of India Mr Pranabh Mukherjee said, “Distressed to hear about CM Jayalalithaa suffering a cardiac arrest, my prayers for her speedy recovery #PresidentMukherjee.”

Prime Minister Narendra Modi stated, “Let's together Pray for the Wellness of Amma who's being treated at Apollo hospital for Cardiac Arrest. #jayalalithaa. Don't spread Panic..”

Let’s pray for speedy recovery of Jayalalithaa.