Election Commission also told the Ministry of Health that PM Modi’s photo on Vaccine Certificate can be counted as “inappropriate publicity”.
The Election Commission of India has asked Health Ministry to remove photo of PM Modi from Coronavirus Vaccine certificates in Poll-Bound states. TMC had complained to the Election Commission that PM Modi’s photograph on the vaccine certificate was a violation of the code of conduct. Taking action on this complaint, the Election Commission has asked the Health Ministry to follow the electoral rules. The Election Commission has asked the Union Health Ministry to ensure that the picture of Prime Minister Narendra Modi is removed from the Covid-19 vaccination certificates to be held in the four states and one union territory where elections are due in April-May.
The Election Commission said that the photos violate the code of conduct. Along with it the Election Commission also told the Ministry of Health that it can be counted as “inappropriate publicity”.
Trinamool Congress MP Derek O’Brien had complained to the EC saying the PM was “taking advantage of his position and powers” through certificates.
The Ministry of Health stated in its response that the vaccination system was designed before the announcement of elections. The ministry reported that the certificates were issued according to the plan. The Model Code of Conduct came into force later.
The Election Commission had announced polling schedule for West Bengal, Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Assam and Puducherry on 26 February.
India has started the second phase of its vaccination campaign on March 1 in which people over 60 years of age and those above 45 years of age with Co-morbidities are being administered vaccine.
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