Omicron LIVE Updates: India Seeing Sharp Surge in Covid Positivity Rate; Mumbai, Bengaluru Urban, Kolkata Emerge as Districts of Concern

Union Transport Minister and BJP stalwart Nitin Gadkari tested positive for Covid-19 for the second time. “I have tested positive for Covid 19 today with mild symptoms. Following all the necessary protocols, I have isolated myself and I am under home quarantine. I request all those who have come in contact with me to isolate themselves and get tested,” Gadkari said in a tweet late on Tuesday night.

Meanwhile, as many as 42 staff members tested positive at the headquarter of the Bharatiya Janata Party in Delhi. Tests were conducted a day ahead of the BJP’s core group meeting. The party’s national media co-convener Sanjay Mayukh too has tested positive.

At least 19 staff of a police station in Vrindavan including its SHO have tested positive for coronavirus, officials said Tuesday, as the district reported 319 new infections. Covid19 is spreading its wings here, said Dr. Bhudeo Singh, Incharge, Rapid Response team. Vrindavan Kotwali Station House Officer Ajai Kaushal and 18 other staff of the police station were found infected with the virus, he said. Also, six court staff and 12 employees of the health department have been found infected, he said. As many as 14 pilgrims were found Covid positive when they were tested at the entrance of the temple, he also.

Meanwhile, the Karnataka government on Tuesday decided to extend the stringent measures imposed to contain the surging COVID cases in the state till January 31 morning. In his order, the state Chief Secretary P Ravi Kumar said the containment measures will remain in force up to 5 AM on January 31 for strict implementation by Chief Commissioner BBMP, Police Commissioners, Deputy Commissioners, Superintendents of Police, and other Heads of Departments and Authorities. These