Delhi’s Health Minister Gets a Surprise Hospital Trip
Just when you think the city’s best health boss is up on his game, a high‑fever bout sends him straight to the hospital. Delhi’s Health Minister, Satyendar Jain, was admitted to RGSSH (Rajiv Gandhi Super Speciality Hospital) for testing on Tuesday, June 16.
The Toll of the Virus in India
- India’s new COVID‑19 cases topped 10,500 on that day, a spike that threatens to overwhelm hospitals.
- The total infection count reached 343,091—the world’s fourth-highest after the United States, Brazil, and Russia.
- The death toll stands at 9,900, a grim figure that’s less than the U.S. and Brazil but higher than Russia.
Reopening Amid Rising Numbers
In a bid to revive a battered economy, India has rolled out businesses, public transport, and shopping malls. The almost 70‑day lockdown ended just as cases are soaring to new daily highs.
Prime Minister’s Call for Action
Prime Minister Narendra Modi triggered a video conference with state chief ministers to devise a strategy for the surge. The big guns—Delhi, Mumbai, and Chennai—continue to be the worst hit.
Quote from the Hospital‑bound Minister
“Due to high‑grade fever and a sudden drop of my oxygen levels last night, I’m admitted to RGSSH. I’ll keep everyone updated.” – Health Minister Satyendar Jain
The minister will undergo a COVID test, with results expected later that same Tuesday. A party member confirmed that other senior officials in finance, foreign affairs, and law departments have tested positive in recent weeks, mostly while working from their offices.
Did the Big Names Get Tested?
- The federal Home Minister Amit Shah and Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal were present at a Sunday meeting, but it wasn’t immediately clear if Shah would be tested.
- Kejriwal was already COVID‑negative earlier in the month.
With the nation juggling reopening plans, a rising infection curve, and a spate of high‑profile cases, the next couple of weeks will be crucial. Stay tuned for updates, and keep that mask handy—because even the big shots aren’t immune to the virus!
