Experts divided over ICMR advisory on ‘purposive testing strategy’
The Hindu
COVID-19 experts in Karnataka have expressed mixed views over the Indian Council of Medical Research’s latest advisory on ‘Purposive Testing Strategy for COVID-19’ that said contacts of COVID-19 patients do not need to be tested unless identified as high-risk based on age
COVID-19 experts in Karnataka have expressed mixed views over the Indian Council of Medical Research’s (ICMR) latest advisory on ‘Purposive Testing Strategy for COVID-19’ that said contacts of COVID-19 patients do not need to be tested unless identified as high-risk based on age.
According to the advisory issued on Monday, asymptomatic patients undergoing surgical or non-surgical invasive procedures, including pregnant women in/near labour who are hospitalised for delivery, should not be tested unless warranted or symptoms develop. It said no emergency procedure, including surgeries, should be delayed due to lack of a test. Besides, inter-State travellers also need not be tested.

Bangladesh is witnessing renewed political tension after the killing of Sharif Osman Hadi, a young leader who emerged during the July–August 2024 uprising that led to the removal of Sheikh Hasina. Hadi later headed the radical group Inquilab Mancha and was campaigning ahead of the 2026 parliamentary election when he was shot in Dhaka. His death has triggered protests, diplomatic friction with India, and concerns over rising political violence as Bangladesh heads towards elections under an interim government.












