Detained Indian Jesuit priest Stanislaus Lourduswamy, known as Stan Swamy, has tested positive for COVID-19.
Reports said Father Swamy had fever, severe cough, headache, and an upset stomach in the past days.
“We appeal to everyone to pray for the speedy recovery of Father Swamy, who is now suffering from COVID-19 apart from other sicknesses,” said Jesuit priest A. Santhanam in a statement quoted by Radio Veritas Asia.
He said they received information that Father Swamy tested positive of COVID-19, “but no other details of his health are disclosed.”
“We can now only pray for his speedy recovery and good health,” said Father Santhanam.
Media reports quoting prison officials said Father Swamy was vaccinated in Taloja Central Jail on May 18 against the coronavirus disease.
Father Swamy also suffers from Parkinson’s disease, hearing impairment, and other age-related ailments.
On Friday, senior counsel Mihir Desai, representing Father Swamy, told that court that the priest was ready to undergo treatment at Holy Family Hospital and will himself bear the cost.
“The health of the appellant is deteriorating and it is necessary to admit him so that he gets proper treatment,” said the counsel.
In its order to transfer the priest to the hospital, the court noted that the priest “can be given a choice of Holy Family Hospital for his treatment for 15 days.”
