Former Prime Minister of India and JD(S) leader HD Deve Gowda said on Wednesday, 31 March, that he and his wife, Chennamma, had tested positive for coronavirus.
“We are self-isolating along with other family members. I request all those who came in contact with us over the last few days to get themselves tested. I request party workers and well-wishers not to panic,” he tweeted.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi tweeted, saying he had spoken to Deve Gowda to enquire about their health.
The JD(S) leader responded, saying, “I am grateful to Prime Minister Narendra Modi for calling and enquiring after my health. I am also deeply moved by his offer to get me treated at any hospital of my choice in any city. I assured him that I am being looked after well in Bangalore, but will keep him informed.”
A day ago, National Conference leader Omar Abdullah had tweeted that his father, Farooq Abdullah, had tested positive for coronavirus and was "showing some symptoms".
India's COVID-19 trajectory has seen a rapid rise in the last few days, in what is being called the 'second wave' of the pandemic, led by the surge in Maharashtra. On Wednesday, India reported 53,480 new coronavirus cases, taking the tally in the country to 1,21,49,335. The death toll increased by 354 to 1,62,468.
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