'There is no truth involved in it' - Manoj Tiwary on speculations of testing COVID-19 positive

The Covid-19 pandemic has been on a rampage in India in the recent past, with the nation recording over three lakh cases for two consecutive days. Amid a crisis of oxygen supplies, stockpiling and black-marketing of Remdesivir, and the tense pace of both new infections and deaths, India is also grappling with a spread of misinformation and fake news.

Former Indian cricketer and Trinamool Congress member, Manoj Tiwary was on the receiving end of it as some social media speculations led many to believe that he tested Covid-19 positive. Taking to Twitter, he informed all his followers that he is keeping safe and has not tested positive.

Through his post, Tiwary urged everyone to “not speculate anything in such tough times”, while he also requested all to follow the requisite protocols and maintain social distancing.

It is a hoax and there is no truth involved in it: Manoj Tiwary

“Hello all, hope you are doing well. I wanted to address an issue which has been growing for the last couple of days.”

“There has been speculation in the media that I have tested positive for COVID-19. However, I want to inform everyone that it is a hoax and there is no truth involved in it. My request to everyone would be not to speculate anything in such tough times. Also, requesting everyone to maintain Covid protocols and keep themselves soon. Will see you soon”, read his post on Twitter.

Owing to the rising cases, many celebrities and cricketers have tried raising awareness and have requested people to respect the norms in place to battle the second wave in the country. In a recent video tweeted by Delhi Police, Team India captain Virat Kohli appealed to citizens of India to follow Covid-19 protocols.

“VIRAT KOHLI @imVkohli Team India Captain appeals to citizens to observe #covid protocol & #lockdown to fight the current wave. Wear a mask, keep social distance & hand hygiene. Cooperate with #DelhiPolice & behave responsibly, he says, for victory over corona as #IndiaFightsBack,” Delhi Police had tweeted on Monday.

“As you all know, Covid cases are on the rise in India again. If you’re venturing out for essential services, please wear a mask. Please maintain social distancing,” Kohli said in the video.