The nonagenarian had encountered breathing problems since early morning, and the medical board treating him administered some vital medicines without making any change in the generic component of the drugs as a result of which his urine blockage was partially lifted, and blood pressure improved marginally.

“But his condition continues to remain extremely critical,” sources in the nursing home said. According to hospital director D N Agarwal, there had been some response to the treatment, but he would obviously need continuous oxygen support.

“His condition is unstable and very critical,” Dr A K Maity, Basu’s personal physician and a member of the medical board, said. The morning medical bulletin issued by the hospital said: “Basu has been put on ventilator following acute respiratory problem due to the deteriorating lung condition, but his heart and kidneys are functioning normally.”

Earlier, rumours concerning Basu’s deteriorating health flew thick and fast around the city and the adjoining areas, triggering a rush of his admirers to the hospital.

“All this was due to irresponsible reporting in a section of the media, some news channels and a few websites,” an angry CPM politburo member and Left Front chairman Biman Bose said. “I condemn the way some media persons have been spreading rumours about the health of our respected and popular leader. It should be immediately stopped.”

Bose, who visited Basu in the ICCU, however, declined to speak of his health. When pressed, he shot back: “You (reporters) must stick to the medical bulletin.”