86 year old Balasaheb Thackeray has been tormented by grave respiratory problems and other age related problems since quite a while as he was repeatedly admitted in the hospital with oxygen support. However, recently, his condition deteriorated to be very critical that he had to remain on life-support.

Uddhav Thackeray, the executive president of the party and the son of the Shiv Sena chief has urged the members to remain calm and maintain peace while praying for his father's health. He reassured the supporters saying that their beloved leader has been responding well to the treatments and that he has not lost hope. He added that with the strong will power Bal Thackeray possessed, he would make it out of the crisis.

Over 5000 people who reached Matoshri started moving away slowly after the announcement which assuaged their anxiety regarding Thackeray's health.

Standing by the supremo's side were Uddhav Thackeray, his espoused nephew and MNS chief Raj Thackeray, apart from other relatives.

Police have been maintaining security at Matoshri as they took stock of the situation in Kala Nagar.

Thackeray was earlier admitted to Lilavati Hospital in July but released after it was confirmed that he was in good health. Later he fell ill twice on different occasions. Bal Thackeray made a video-tape presence at the Dusshera Rally that was held last month while adressing the annual party conclave at Shivaji Park on account of his poor health.

Recently two weeks ago the Shiv Sena leader was very ill and has not recouped yet as his condition remains critical.

(AW- Anil)