Modi govt has mismanaged COVID-19 situation: Sonia Gandhi

Sonia Gandhi accused the Modi Government for mismanagement of COVID-19 situation in the country alleging that a large number of vaccines are being exported to other countries when our own states are facing a shortage.

New Delhi: Congress President Sonia Gandhi held a meeting of Congress ruled and alliance States' Chief Ministers to review the efforts to fight COVID-19 and availability of vaccines, where she accepted that they are also responsible for the acceleration of COVID-19, to some extent, caused by the mass gatherings for elections.

She also accused the Modi Government for mismanagement of COVID-19 situation in the country alleging that a large number of vaccines are being exported to other countries when our own states are facing a shortage.

While addressing the meeting, the Congress Chief stated, "The Modi government has mismanaged the situation - exported vaccine and allowed a shortage to be created in India. Mass gatherings for elections and religious events have accelerated Covid for which all of us are responsible to some extent. We need to accept this responsibility and keep the interest of the nation above our own."

She asserted that being the principal opposition party, it is the responsibility of Congress to raise issues and push the Central government to act in the interest of the people, moving away from "PR tactics".

She asked the State Governments to maintain transparency by revealing the actual numbers of COVID-19 infections and deaths and to take strict measures to ensure that the pandemic doesn’t not go out of control by ensuring testing at large scale, preparation of adequate facilities, and setting up temporary ones. She also urged the CMs to support those who will face the brunt of reduced economic activity due to the stringent restrictions amid surge of cases.

On the issue of vaccine shortage, Sonia Gandhi stated, "We must focus on India’s vaccination drive first and foremost, then only export vaccines and gift them to other countries. We must stress on responsible behaviour - adhering to all laws and Covid regulations without exception."

She said, "Cooperation with states respecting federalism and in turn, for us to be constructive and cooperate with the government in its efforts to fight the pandemic is equally important," adding that the entire country stands united in the fight against COVID-19.

Gandhi also asked the CMs to brief on the latest situation regarding the agitation of farmers, saying, "Congress-ruled states have passed their own laws but these have not received Presidential assent. What more should we do even though the keys to the solution lies with the Centre which has created the problem in the first place."