An inconsolable Tamil Nadu CM O Panneerselvam hugged PM Modi when he paid tribute to Jayalalithaa.
An inconsolable
Tamil Nadu Chief Minister O Panneerselvam hugged Narendra Modi emotionally on a couple of occasions as the Prime Minister approached the casket containing
Jayalalithaa's body to pay his last respects.
The atmosphere was emotionally charged as
PM Modi, amid tight security, walked into
Rajaji Hall, where the AIADMK supremo's body had been kept for people to pay their respects.
As he walked towards Mr Panneerselvam after placing a wreath near the body, the latter broke down and hugged him. PM Modi affectionately patted him, suggesting that he be strong. As PM Modi walked back to his vehicle, Mr Panneerselvam again hugged him with tears in his eyes.
Earlier, the Prime Minister consoled Jayalalithaa's close confidante
Sasikala Natarajan, who too was in tears.
Even at that time, Mr Panneerselvam again broke down and the Prime Minister hugged him, asking him to control his emotions.
PM Modi was also seen requesting people not to take photos on their mobile phones as he greeted them with folded hands.