DHAKA:  Jayalalithaa, the Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu and one of India's most powerful and popular politicians, died late on Monday (December 5) in a Chennai hospital, nearly three months after she was admitted there.

She was 68.

Jayalalithaa also known as "Amma" or "mother" to millions of supporters had a cardiac arrest on Sunday (December 4) evening and was rushed back to the Intensive Care Unit or ICU, reports NDTV.

She was moved from the critical care unit to a private room kitted out with emergency equipment barely two weeks ago, after doctors and her party said she was fully recovered from a respiratory illness.

“It is with indescribable grief, we announce the sad demise of our esteemed honorable chief minister of Tamil Nadu at 11:30 pm (local time) today (December 5),” Chennai's Apollo Hospital said in a statement released to the media after midnight.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi tweeted, “Deeply saddened at the passing away of Selvi Jayalalithaa. Her demise has left a huge void in Indian politics. My thoughts and prayers are with the people of Tamil Nadu in this hour of grief. May the Almighty grant them the strength to bear this irreparable loss with courage and fortitude,” adding, “Jayalalithaa ji's connect with citizens, concern for welfare of the poor, the women and marginalized will always be a source of inspiration”.

Jayalalithaa was taken to Apollo Hospital on September 22 where she was admitted for dehydration and fever. Her condition soon deteriorated, and she was diagnosed with a severe respiratory infection.

On November 20, in the clearest sign that they believed she was no longer in danger, doctors said Ms Jayalalithaa had been relocated from the Intensive Care Unit.

Jayalalithaa, a former movie star, served four times as Chief Minister, alternating in office with her arch-rival, M Karunanidhi, who heads the DMK.
After acting in more than 100 films, Jayalalithaa rose to political leadership.

BDST: 1003 HRS, DEC 06, 2016
AP/SMS