Maharashtra Minister of Tourism and Environment and Shiv Sena leader Aaditya Thackeray tested positive for COVID-19 on Saturday. This comes amid a “second COVID wave” in the state. 

“On having mild symptoms of COVID, I had myself tested and I am COVID positive. I request everyone who came in contact with me to get themselves tested. I urge everyone to realise that it is extremely important to not let your guard down. Please follow COVID protocols and stay safe,” Thackeray tweeted.

In the wake of increasing COVID-19 cases in Mumbai, the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) announced that it would conduct random rapid antigen tests at all crowded places like malls, markets, bus stations, and railway stations in Mumbai. The tests will be conducted without consent. 

On Friday, Mumbai recorded  3,062 new cases of COVID-19, which was the highest one-day spike since the coronavirus pandemic began last year. Maharashtra, on the other hand, recorded 25,833 new COVID-19 cases on Thursday.