TN on edge: US issues advisory for its citizens

NEW DELHI: With Tamil Nadu and Chennai on the edge following the cardiac arrest suffered by chief minister J Jayalalithaa, the US Consulate General in Chennai has temporarily suspended appointments for routine services to US citizens and visa applicants.
The American State Department on Monday morning advised US citizens that “even gatherings intended to be peaceful can turn confrontational and escalate into violence”.“You should avoid areas off demonstrations and exercise caution in the vicinity of any large gatherings, protests, or demonstrations,” it said.
The advisory comes hours Tamil Nadu CM suffered a cardiac arrest and thousands of people gathered outside Chennai’s Apollo Hospital where she has been admitted for over two months now. “The US Consulate general in Chennai will operate with reduced staffing on December 5, 2016. The Consulate will provide updates when routine services are restored,” it said.
“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 safety,” the US State department said.
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