In a significant development, the Union health ministry has made alterations to the Covid-19 Vaccine Certificates issued through CoWIN, removing the photograph of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Previously, these certificates prominently featured PM Modi’s image alongside a quote affirming India’s collective resolve to overcome the pandemic. However, while the quote remains, the Prime Minister’s name has been omitted from the certificates.
This change has sparked discussions, especially on social media platforms like X (formerly Twitter), where users noticed the absence of PM Modi’s photograph on the Covid-19 Vaccine Certificates. This adjustment aligns with past actions taken during election periods to comply with the Model Code of Conduct (MCC). According to health ministry officials, the timing of the alteration was influenced by the ongoing Lok Sabha elections and the need to maintain electoral fairness by avoiding the presence of political figures on official documents.
Covishield Controversy Resurfaces
The timing of this change coincides with renewed discussions surrounding the Covishield vaccine, manufactured by AstraZeneca. Following AstraZeneca’s admission in a UK court about potential rare side effects, including Thrombosis with Thrombocytopenia Syndrome (TTS), concerns regarding the vaccine’s safety have resurfaced. While there is no conclusive evidence linking Covishield to TTS, the discussions have prompted individuals in India to reevaluate their vaccination certificates in light of this development.
Past Instances of Photo Removal from Covid-19 Vaccine Certificates
This is not the first time PM Modi’s photograph has been removed from Covid-19 Vaccine Certificates. In 2022, similar modifications were made to certificates issued in specific states, including Uttar Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Punjab, Manipur, and Goa, ahead of state assembly elections. The decision to include PM Modi’s photograph on vaccination certificates had previously sparked debate, with the issue even reaching the Kerala High Court.
Opposition’s Demand for Compensation
Meanwhile, the opposition Congress has raised concerns in Gujarat, alleging negligence by the BJP-led government regarding the administration of the Covishield vaccine. Congress leaders have demanded compensation for the families of individuals who died from heart attacks or similar reasons after receiving the Covishield vaccine. However, doctors associated with the BJP have refuted these claims, citing studies that found no direct link between Covid-19 vaccines and such incidents.
In conclusion, the removal of PM Modi’s photograph from Covid vaccine certificates and the controversies surrounding Covishield underscore the complexities involved in India’s vaccination efforts amidst ongoing political and public health challenges.
