There seems to be no respite from the hands of COVID-19 as India recorded 217,353 new cases in the past 24 hours, marking yet another day of surge in patient numbers, official government data released on Friday unveiled. The virus also left 1,185  people dead in the past 24 hours.

The death toll due to the virus now stands at 174,308.

There are 15,69,743 active cases in the country at present.

Meanwhile, two senior Congress leaders on Friday morning confirmed they have tested positive for the virus.

Both Randeep Singh Surjewala and Digvijaya Singh tweeted to confirm their health condition.

Shiromani Akali Dal leader Harsimrat Kaur Badal also tested positive and tweeted: "Dear all, I've tested positive for #COVID19 today with mild symptoms. I have quarantined myself at home and am taking all the necessary precautions. I would request all those who came in contact with me to isolate and get themselves tested at the earliest."

(IBNS)