Odisha MLA sent to home quarantine after staff test COVID-19 positive

Bhubaneswar: A member of Odisha Legislative Assembly has been sent to home quarantine after a few of his staff tested positive for COVID-19.

Biju Janata Dal (BJD) MLA Amar Prasad Satpathy, who represents Badachana Assembly Constituency, is now under home isolation following COVID-19 test of his staff came out positive today.

“I and my family have been advised to put ourselves under isolation as we have come in contact with them at my residence. The local administration has allowed me for home isolation for a period of 14 days. Based on suggestion from the authorities, I and my family members underwent the antibody test and fortunately, we all tested negative,” Satpathy said in a video message today.

Source said that a PSO, driver and two domestic helps engaged at home of the legislator have been infected with coronavirus.

“They underwent test to detect COVID-19 after they developed symptoms. After they were found positive for the deadly virus, we were also advised for COVID-19 test. Though, I and my family members tested negative on an antibody test, we need to undergo RT-PCR test to detect COVID-19 during the period of home isolation,” the MLA said.

He urged people, who have directly come in contact with him and his family, not to panic.

“I will be in touch with people over telephone and try to sort out their issues even though I will be unavailable personally with them,” Satpathy said.

He made it clear that he will be able not tour to Jajpur district to attend a programme as directed by the Chief Minister.

“I have informed to the Chief Minister’s Office in this regard. As the COVID-19 cases are on rise in the State, we need to fight together by adhering to social distancing norms,” he added.