"Don't knit-pick like an immature kid," Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma wrote to Congress Leader Rahul Gandhi on Monday, June 7, in an attempt to defend Prime Minister Narendra Modi's decision of providing free COVID-19 vaccines for all.
In an address to the nation on Monday, June 7, PM Modi announced that the Centre has decided to provide free COVID-19 vaccines to states for inoculation of all above the age of 18 from June 21.
He went on to add that private sector hospitals can continue to procure 25% of the vaccines, and the service charge would be capped at Rs 150 per dose over the fixed price of the vaccine.
Later, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi took to Twitter to criticize the Centre, asking if vaccines are free for all, why should private hospitals charge for them.
"One simple question - If vaccines are free for all, why should private hospitals charge for them?" Rahul Gandhi, who represents Kerala's Wayanad in the Lok Sabha tweeted with the hashtag #FreeVaccineForAll.
Dr. Himanta Biswa Sarma immediately came to PM Modi's defense and tweeted back, "One simple answer- Every 18+ Indian will be given free vaccine by PM @narendramodi Govt at public hospitals, those who want to pay can opt for private. Don't knit-pick like an immature kid."
Meanwhile, West Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee offered sharp criticism of PM Modi's decision. Banerjee said the announcement should have been made months ago and that the delay has cost several lives.
"The well-being of the people of India should've been prioritized since the very start of this pandemic. Unfortunately, this delayed decision by PM has already cost many lives. Hoping for a better managed #VaccinationDrive this time that focuses on people & not propaganda!," the Trinamool Congress chief tweeted.