Chidambaram terms Centre's claim on vaccine hollow, untrue

NEW DELHI: Congress leader P Chidambaram has termed the Centre's claim of having adequate vaccines to meet rising demand as hollow and untrue, citing widespread complaints from states.

The former Finance Minister asked the government to work towards meeting the vaccine demand and start preparing for May 1, when the Centre plans to open covid -19 vaccination to all above 18 years of age.

"The first and foremost requirement is the availability of vaccines. There are widespread complaints about the lack of supply of vaccines. The government's claim that there is no shortage of vaccines is hollow and untrue." said Chidambaram

"When the surge in demand happens on May 1 and more people flock to hospitals for vaccination, will there be adequate stocks of vaccines all over the country? If people are turned away at hospitals, there will be great resentment and protests," he added

Chidambaram also cautioned that the decision of scaling up vaccine coverage brings huge responsibilities and the government has done very little to meet the requirements.

He also cited incidents like the people crying for admission of patients in hospitals, people pleading with doctors to examine the patient, people carrying an oxygen cylinder on their back while bringing the patient and hospitals rushing to High Courts seeking Oxygen supply, to prove his point.

"if anyone including the Health Minister has any conscience, he should resign forthwith", he added.