OPS team sits on hunger strike for probe into Jaya's death

A dawn to dusk hunger strike has started this morning by former chief minister O Panneerselvam and his supporters across the state, demanding probe into the death of former chief minister J Jayalalithaa.

Party MLAs and MPs are fasting in Chennai and other districts with Panneerselvam leading the fast from Rajarathinam Stadium at Egmore from 9am to 5pm.

Speaking to reporters, former school education minister K Pandiarajan said, "Our leader will sit on fast at 9am and at the same time our supporters will also commence the fast."

He added: "We are not satisfied with the reports submitted by Apollo Hospitals and AIIMS as there are discrepancies between the two. We want a judicial probe to bring out the truth in Amma's treatment and her death."

The dethroned Chief Minister is leading the fast in Chennai while other top leaders are presiding over the stir in districts. The rebels are organising the event, which is their first public programme, to show off their strength.

Meanwhile, health minister C Vijayabaskar has accused Panneerselvam of spreading false information among people regarding the health condition of Jayalalithaa during her last days.

Rejecting all the allegations made by Panneerselvam, Vijayabaskar said they are open and transparent about her case.