Former prime minister H.D. Deve Gowda announced on Wednesday that he and his wife had tested positive for COVID-19.
Deve Gowda tweeted, "My wife Chennamma and I have tested positive for COVID-19. We are self-isolating along with other family members. I request all those who came in contact with us over the last few days to get themselves tested. I request party workers and well-wishers not to panic."
Deve Gowda, who is 87 years old, had served as prime minister of the United Front government from June 1996 to April 1997.
Last year, a number of senior political figures in Karnataka, including Chief Minister B.S. Yediyurappa and former chief minister Siddaramiah had become infected with COVID-19 but recovered.
Karnataka is among the states where the second wave of COVID-19 has hit hard in recent days.
On Tuesday, Karnataka reported 2,975 new cases and 21 fatalities, taking its total caseload to 9,92,779 and the death toll to 12,541.
