As India witnesses a fresh surge in Covid-19 cases, the Union Government has taken a significant precautionary step by making it mandatory for all ministers and senior officials to undergo an RT-PCR test before meeting Prime Minister Narendra Modi. This decision comes as the country’s active caseload crossed the 7,000 mark, with several states reporting a sharp rise in infections.
According to official sources, the new rule applies to everyone, including senior ministers, scheduled to meet the Prime Minister. The precaution is seen as essential to protect the Prime Minister and other high-ranking officials from potential exposure to the virus. Notably, around 70 Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leaders from Delhi—including the Chief Minister, all seven MPs, and MLAs—were required to take the test before attending a dinner hosted by PM Modi at his residence this evening. This gathering follows the BJP’s recent victory in the Delhi Assembly elections.
New Covid-19 Cases
The latest data from the Union Health Ministry reveals that India recorded 306 new Covid-19 cases and six deaths in the past 24 hours. Kerala continues to be the worst affected, reporting 170 new infections and three deaths, taking its active case count to 2,223. Gujarat and Karnataka also reported significant numbers, with 114 and 100 new cases respectively, while Delhi saw 66 new cases, raising its active caseload to 757.
Health experts attribute the current rise in infections to new Covid-19 variants such as LF.7, XFG, JN.1, and the recently identified NB.1.8.1. These variants are being closely monitored, and experts have advised the public to continue following Covid-appropriate behaviour, including wearing masks, maintaining hand hygiene, and avoiding crowded places.
While there is no national advisory yet, several states have issued their own instructions. The Delhi government has directed hospitals to ensure adequate beds, oxygen, and medicines are available. Karnataka has urged people to stay alert and follow health guidelines. Odisha and Arunachal Pradesh have also advised calm, noting that most current cases are mild and that health departments are closely monitoring the situation.
In addition to the RT-PCR requirement, the central government has launched mock drills across the country to assess hospital preparedness. States have been directed to ensure sufficient supplies of oxygen, isolation beds, ventilators, and essential drugs to handle any further increase in cases.
The new testing mandate is seen as a necessary step to safeguard the health of the Prime Minister and other key officials, especially in light of the recent uptick in Covid-19 cases. As the situation evolves, more such precautions may be introduced to prevent the spread of the virus and protect public health.
