COVID-19 infection confirmed in 75 percent Nepali Kumbha Mela returnees

KATHMANDU: Earlier this month, a Hindu festival gathering was held in Haridwar, India. The ruling BJP has been criticized for organizing it as it contributed to the transmission of COVID-19 in the general public.

Former King Gyanendra, who returned to Nepal after participating in the festival, has been admitted to Norvic Hospital after contracting COVID. His family members are being treated with oxygen at the same hospital. 

According to the Ministry of Health and Population, coronavirus infection has been confirmed in 75% of those who returned to Nepal after participating in the festival. Of the nearly 100,000 who returned after participating in the fair, 75% tested positive for the virus.

According to Indian officials, the infection has spread to Bihar, Uttar Pradesh and other states. Those returning to Delhi after attending the festival were instructed by India to stay in mandatory quarantine. 

However, the pilgrims, including the former King, who has returned to Nepal, were criticized on social media for not staying in quarantine.