Maran 'better now'

Union Minister Without Portfolio Murasoli Maran, who is being treated at the Methodist Hospital in Houston, Texas, since November, suffered a sudden decline in his condition on Wednesday, but has shown improvement since, sources told rediff.com

"On July 9, the minister had difficulties breathing due to a lung infection and other complications. He was in a critical  condition. Although the complications continue, he is better now," family friends said.

"He has been ill for so many months. Doctors examine him every day. It has been kind of back and forth many times in the past eight months," the family's friends said.

Maran was flown to the US November 14 after developing medical complications following surgery in India. He underwent a 'high risk emergence surgery' on September 25 for replacement of an infected mitral valve in Chennai.

He has been in a coma for many weeks. "Sometimes he wakes up, looks at things," the sources said, but denied he was on a life support system.

Hospital officials said no information could be provided except that the patient is in intensive care.

Maran's sons Kalanidhi and Dayanidhi are expected to arrive in Houston on Friday evening.

"Some family members are always here," the sources said. "On July 9, his daughter was here, and tonight his sons are expected."