India is seeing a rise in COVID-19 cases, with the total number reaching 3,961 as of June 3, 2025. The Delhi High Court has stepped in, asking the central government to provide a detailed report within six weeks about how the country is handling the situation. This comes as people are worried about the growing number of cases, new variants, and the need for better safety measures. News Today India brings you all the details about this important development in simple and clear language.

Why Are COVID-19 Cases Increasing?

The number of COVID-19 cases in India has gone up quickly in just a few days. On May 26, there were only 1,009 active cases, but by June 3, this number jumped to 3,961. Experts say there are a few reasons for this increase:

• New Variants: Two new types of the virus, called NB.1.8.1 and LF.7, are spreading. These are related to the older Omicron variant and may be easier to catch.
• Weakening Immunity: Many people got their COVID-19 vaccines over a year ago, and the protection from these vaccines is getting weaker over time.
• Relaxed Behavior: People are not following safety rules like wearing masks or keeping distance as strictly as before.

These factors have caused a spike in cases, not just in India but also in nearby countries like China, Thailand, and Singapore.

Which States Are Affected the Most?

Not all parts of India are seeing the same number of cases. Some states are reporting more infections than others. Here’s a look at the worst-hit areas:

• Kerala: This state has the highest number of cases, with 1,435 active cases. It is the most affected state right now.
• Maharashtra: This state has 506 active cases, making it the second most affected.
• Delhi: The capital city reported 483 active cases, including 47 new cases in just one day. This is the highest single-day increase in Delhi. One person also passed away in Delhi, but doctors say it was because of other health problems, not just COVID-19.
• West Bengal: This state reported 82 new cases recently, showing the virus is spreading in other areas too.

What Is the Delhi High Court Doing?

The Delhi High Court is taking the situation very seriously. A lawyer named Rakesh Malhotra brought the issue to the court’s attention. He pointed out that there are no clear rules for collecting and testing COVID-19 samples, and many diagnostic labs are not properly regulated. This could be dangerous for public health.

The court has asked the central government to submit a detailed report within six weeks. This report should explain:

• How COVID-19 samples are collected and transported.
• What safety rules (called SOPs) are in place to stop the virus from spreading.
• How diagnostic labs are being checked to ensure they are safe and accurate.

The next court hearing is set for July 18, 2025, where the judges will review the government’s response.

What Is the Government Doing?

The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare is keeping a close eye on the situation. On June 1, they reported 360 new cases in just 24 hours, showing how fast the virus is spreading. The government is working on:

• Surveillance: Watching for new cases and tracking the virus’s spread.
• Hospital Preparedness: Making sure hospitals have enough beds, oxygen, and medicines to treat patients.
• Public Awareness: Asking people to follow safety rules like wearing masks and avoiding crowded places.

Prataprao Jadhav, a Minister of State for Health, has said that the government is ready to handle the situation. He has also asked people to stay careful and follow guidelines to stay safe.

Former Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal has also spoken out, urging the government to make sure hospitals are ready to treat more patients if needed.

Are the New Cases Serious?

Thankfully, most of the new COVID-19 cases are mild. Many people are recovering at home without needing to go to the hospital. However, the quick rise in cases is a warning that the virus is still a threat. Hospitals are preparing for any increase in serious cases by keeping enough beds, oxygen, and medical supplies ready.

What Are the New Variants?

The Indian SARS-CoV-2 Genomics Consortium (Insacog), a group that studies the virus, has found that the new variants NB.1.8.1 and LF.7 are causing the rise in cases. These variants come from the JN.1 variant, which is related to the Omicron family. Scientists are studying these variants to understand how easily they spread and whether they cause more serious illness.

What Should People Do?

To stay safe, everyone can take simple steps:

• Wear a mask in crowded places or indoors.
• Wash hands regularly with soap and water.
• Avoid crowded areas where the virus can spread easily.
• Get a booster shot if it’s been a long time since your last vaccine.
• Stay home if sick and get tested if you have symptoms like fever, cough, or sore throat.

Looking Ahead

The rise in COVID-19 cases is a reminder that the pandemic is not over yet. With new variants spreading and immunity from vaccines fading, India needs to stay alert. The Delhi High Court’s order for a detailed report shows how important it is to have clear rules and strong systems to fight the virus. News Today India will keep you updated on the government’s response and the next steps after the court hearing on July 18, 2025.

Stay safe, stay informed, and follow the guidelines to protect yourself and your loved ones!