‘Panel will find hurdle in flying Jaya abroad’

The issue of transferring the ailing chief minister abroad for treatment has been repeatedly broached during the probe surrounding the circumstances of her illness and passing away.

Several versions have been stated, with Deputy Chief Minister O Panneerselvam stating that they had no say in the matter and that their requests were not heeded. Others such as doctors from Apollo, AIIMS and the UK-based doctor Richard Beale have been known to have said that all the facilities for treatment were available in Apollo Hospitals and that Jayalalithaa’s health condition was too precarious for her to be taken abroad for treatment. 

The inquiry commission has pursued this line of questioning with those involved. Then Chief Secretary Rama Mohana Rao has said that while discussions were held on the matter, no concrete conclusion was arrived at with the council of ministers. 

The Commission has received a four-month extension to complete the probe and submit the final report on February 24, 2019.  Several key figures including O Panneerselvam, Thambidurai and Health Minister Vijaya Baskar have yet to be sent summons.