Kerala CM asked to explain free Covid vaccine

Following a complaint by the opposition UDF regarding violation of the model code of conduct, the Election Commission has sought an explanation from CM Pinarayi Vijayan over his announcement of free Covid vaccine in the state.

Thiruvananthapuram: The Election Commission has sought an explanation from CM Pinarayi Vijayan based on the complaint by UDF regarding violation of the model code of conduct. The commissioner said that a decision would be taken after receiving the reply from the chief minister.

On Saturday, the chief minister made an announcement regarding the free distribution of vaccine at a press conference. Both UDF and BJP leaders had filed a complaint with the EC terming it as a clear violation of the model code of conduct.

Terming the charges as 'childish', Left Democratic Front convener and CPI(M) state secretary in-charge A Vijayaraghavan told reporters at Thrissur that the CM's statement was part of the ongoing COVID-19 treatment procedure in the state.

"The UDF allegation is childish. The COVID-19 treatment in the state is being provided free of cost. The announcement of giving the vaccine also free of cost is part of the process of him explaining details of the treatment," the LDF convener said.

The Chief Minister stated on Saturday that the COVID-19 vaccine would be made available free of cost to all people in Kerala."No one will be charged for the vaccine.

This is the stand of the government," he told reporters at Kannur. Vijayan also said the quantity of the vaccine that would be allotted to the state by the Centre was not yet known.